On this episode of Chasing Compliance, host Jamie Hijmans and Sr. Manager Sarra De Velance discuss systematic literature search and screening. They discuss the importance of robust literature searches and screening processes and the consequences of poorly constructed search terms. Sarra describes her process and provides tips for developing robust searches. They discuss the pitfalls and benefits of using search operators such as Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms and not operators, as well as where to look for help if you get stuck. Sarra also provides insight into surmounting the challenges of literature screening, including developing comprehensive and clear inclusion and exclusion criteria, common errors made during literature screening, and best practices for creating rigorous, reproducible literature screening processes. As always, they wrap up the episode with Favorite Fridays.

Sarra and Jamie cover:

• The consequences of suboptimal systematic literature searches [6:03]
• How search terms are used and methodology for creating robust search terms in the context of the literature review [8:05]
• Why manual searches don’t work in a regulatory environment [10:42]
• How poorly constructed search terms influence search results  [13:30]
• Common errors in search term construction [16:57]
• The value of not quires and the risk of misuse [18:50]
• MeSH terms – what they are and how to use them [25:20]
• How to develop search terms and where to get help [29:19]
• Techniques for combining search terms  [36:12]
• Using adjacencies to search for phrases [39:15]
• How to structure inclusion and exclusion criteria [43:32]
• Challenges of and best practices for rigorous and unbiased literature screening [46:47]
• Use of the “other” exclusion criteria [51:10]
• Common errors in search screening, including overuse of the find tool [53:29]
• Sarra’s last two tips for screening [58:20]