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Nursing Literature Search

What is a Synthesis Matrix?

A synthesis matrix is a table that organizes information from multiple sources based on common themes or topics. It allows researchers to compare, contrast, and synthesize findings across studies to identify patterns, agreements, disagreements, or gaps in the literature. In evidence-based practice, a synthesis matrix helps summarize research findings from studies on treatments, interventions, or health outcomes.

  • Identifies trends (e.g., effectiveness of a therapy)
  • Highlights consistent or conflicting evidence.
  • Organizes findings from multiple studies
  • Not just a summary of individual sources
  • Connects key themes across studies

A synthesis matrix promotes clarity, critical thinking, and an evidence-driven approach to analyzing research.

Even if you don't need to turn in a synthesis matrix with your assignment, you might find it helpful for organizing your sources in any class. The Northshore Community College Library has a great guide on how to begin your own.

Connection Between PICO and a Synthesis Matrix

  1. Population (P):

    • The matrix organizes studies that focus on a specific population (e.g., "adults with Type 2 diabetes").
    • Helps identify similarities and differences in findings across studies with the same population.

  2. Intervention (I) and Comparison (C):

    • Studies involving specific interventions (e.g., "low-carb diet") and comparisons (e.g., "standard diet") are organized into themes.
    • The matrix shows how interventions differ in design, outcomes, or effectiveness.

  3. Outcome (O):

    • Organizes reported outcomes (e.g., "improved blood sugar control").
    • Highlights patterns, trends, or conflicts in results across studies.

Example

For a PICO question:
"In adults with hypertension (P), does a low-sodium diet (I) compared to no dietary change (C) reduce blood pressure (O)?"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By synthesizing studies using a matrix, researchers can analyze evidence systematically to answer PICO questions, draw conclusions, and inform clinical decisions effectively. This structured approach is critical for literature reviews in evidence-based health sciences.

Example Synthesis Matrix

Below is an example synthesis matrix using three AI-generated sources used in the literature review on cats and coat color on the bottom of this page.