This module will discuss the stage in a review when, having analysed and presented the results, we are trying to interpret their application to clinical practice and policy.

Learning objectives

• Understand the necessary (but 'insufficient') role of systematic reviews in making decisions about health care
• Appreciate that the balance between benefit and risk may be different for different groups and different individuals
• Understand the limitations of systematic reviews in identifying all adverse effects and be aware of other sources of information which are more likely to be able to identify possible adverse effects
• Be aware of the problems in interpreting subjective outcomes
• Appreciate the need for caution in interpreting and applying results from surrogate outcomes

Relevant sections of the Reviewers' Handbook

• Section 9.2 - 9.5

Where does this go in a Cochrane review?

• The Inclusion Criteria section of the review should describe all the outcomes (both benefits and harms) that you will consider in the review
• The Discussion section of the review should describe how you have interpreted the results, in particular the strength of evidence about all the outcomes, clarification of any important trade-offs between the expected benefits, harms and costs of the intervention, as well as any other considerations that might be relevant to someone making a decision