Table 1

Summary of quality assessment of included studies (n=79)

Yes, n (%)Partially, n (%)No, n (%)Unclear, n (%)
Was the research problem and/or research question clearly reported/defined?35 (44)16 (20)28 (35)
Was there a clear statement of the aims and/or objectives of the research?69 (87)7 (9)3 (4)
Was a qualitative methodology appropriate?63 (80)16 (20)
Was the research design appropriate to address the aims of the research?66 (84)8 (10)2 (3)3 (4)
Was the sampling and recruitment strategy clearly defined and justified?44 (56)24 (30)9 (11)2 (3)
Was the method of data collection well described?57 (72)18 (23)4 (5)
Were any techniques to enhance trustworthiness used?38 (48)12 (15)15 (19)14 (18)
Has the relationship between researchers and participants been adequately considered?10 (13)16 (20)51 (65)2 (3)
Have ethical issues been taken into consideration?24 (30)39 (49)6 (8)10 (13)
Was the data analysis/interpretation process well described and justified?43 (54)22 (28)14 (18)
Was there a clear statement of findings?69 (87)10 (13)
Are the analysis and findings credible?55 (70)22 (28)1 (1)1 (1)
Was any conflict of interest reported?4 (5)75 (95)