Table 2 Definitions of the components of the CERQual approach
From: Applying GRADE-CERQual to qualitative evidence synthesis findings: introduction to the series
Component | Definition |
|---|---|
Methodological limitations | The extent to which there are concerns about the design or conduct of the primary studies that contributed evidence to an individual review finding |
Coherence | An assessment of how clear and cogent the fit is between the data from the primary studies and a review finding that synthesises that data. By ‘cogent’, we mean well supported or compelling |
Adequacy of data | An overall determination of the degree of richness and quantity of data supporting a review finding |
Relevance | The extent to which the body of evidence from the primary studies supporting a review finding is applicable to the context (perspective or population, phenomenon of interest, setting) specified in the review question |