Protocol for search strategy

Task 1.1 Definition of search strategy and the protocol (M1-3) This phase will produce a protocol for the collection and analysis of literature information. The protocol will describe the rationale, hypothesis, and planned methods. The protocol will be registered in a registry such as PROSPERO. Objective 1 will be covered by a systematic review of domains of refractory symptoms and palliative sedation; objective 2 would need the design of an on-line survey using appropriate software (i.e. Survey Monkey); objective 3 will be covered by a integrative review. The review will follow PRISMA guidance. Literature search will be based on scientific databases like Pubmed, Medline, and Embase. In addition grey literature including non-english literature will be collected for the participating countries via an online survey. The design will be lead by University of Navarra with the collaboration of Pecs university together with experts in literature review methods from the Lancaster University group. The experience of partner Leuven in leading systematic research in the previous FP7-Insup-C project will be an added value for the design of the strategy.