7.3.9 Conclusion and Recommendations

This section should begin with an overall conclusion based on the results. The conclusions drawn should match with the review objective/question.

The conclusion section of a systematic review should provide a general interpretation of the findings in the context of other evidence and provide a detailed discussion of issues arising from the findings of the review and demonstrate the significance of the review findings to practice and research. Areas that may be addressed include:

• A summary of the major findings of the review;

• Issues related to the quality of the research within the area of interest;

• Other issues of relevance; and

• Potential limitations of the systematic review.

Recommendations for practice

It should be stated how the findings of the review impact on public health issues and clinical practice in the area. If there is sufficient evidence to make specific recommendations for practice, then the appropriate JBI Grades of Recommendation should be assigned to each recommendation based on the study design that led to the recommendation.

Recommendations for research

This section should include clear, specific recommendations for future research based on gaps in knowledge identified from the results of the review. Recommendations for research should avoid generalised statements calling for further research, but should be linked to specific issues.