Scoping out the scope of scoping reviews in neonatal and pediatric pain management: A scoping review methodological framework

Purpose: This methodological framework was purposed to discuss the considerations for conducting scoping review for neonatal and pediatric pain management (NPPM) from the perspectives of Arksey and O' Malley and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) framework. Till now, there is no scoping review or standard methods are available for identifying, prioritizing, or reporting research gaps in the area of NPPM. Methods and results: Scoping reviews were utilized to map the literature comprehensively across a range of study designs in a particular area. This methodological framework describes the methods used to identify, prioritize, and display research gaps in the area of NPPM. Different methods to determine research gaps have been described in this framework. This scoping review methodological framework also discussed methods for conducting scoping review in two levels with methodological considerations given by Arksey and O'Malley, and JBI Institute. Search terms and search terminologies are described to conduct scoping review effectively for NPPM. Through, this standard scoping review methodological considerations, the general understanding and current advances in NPPM can be widened. Conclusion: This methodological framework describes the methods for conducting scoping review effectively in the area of NPPM. Level of evidence: Not applicable.