Application of the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) Statement Guideline in Nursing Studies: Analytical Review

Abstract

Background: Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), also called randomized clinical trials, are regarded as the most reputable source of evidence that provides the best guide of the effectiveness of nursing interventions during the Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) period and, however, yet in the nursing literature, has not been evaluated the quality of reporting RCT. Practical and conceptual challenges to the EBP nursing movement have been. The limited available scientific evidence on the efficacy of many nursing practices is one of the serious concerns. EBP requests that study evidence from RCTs and other forms of intervention studies that are still limited in nursing be synthesized. On the other hand, comprehensive evaluations, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews that are performed in nursing are also that limited when compared to other disciplines, such as psychology and medicine.

Aims of the study: The study aimed at applying the declaration of the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement to nursing and healthcare provider studies and adequacy of the published reports adhere to the statement and how the content of the published RCTs is being influenced by the adoption of CONSORT on the quality of reporting RCT.

Methodology: Analytical review of literature based on previous studies and reviews derived of international publishers such as (Scopus, PubMed, and Medline) databases concerning Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) Statement Guideline. The collection of data was conducted from 24 November 2020 to 10 February 2021. These studies were collected and filtered according to the specific criteria. Also, was used keywords such as CONSORT, nursing studies, evidence-based practice, evidence-based nursing practice, randomized controlled trial, as well as the articles by the National Library of Medicine, which provided valid and documented data of global research and epidemiology.

Conclusion: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is rooted in solid evidence that the assumption (science-based nursing) in patient care should be supported by sound evidence. It is important that nursing professionals use the CONSORT statement to review, publish, and utilize their reports of nursing clinical and gather the best evidence to support their clinical practice of use and their decision-making.

Recommendations: The authors should consult supervisors and biostatisticians experts early when formulating the study and analysis protocol to improve the quality of reporting the trials in nursing studies. Determine primary and secondary outcomes in advance, preferably in a published protocol. Use adequate checklists reporting, e.g., Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT), Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE).