Sample | |
S1 | Study provided clearly defined inclusion and exclusion criteria |
S2 | The stage when initial measures were applied was clearly stated |
S3 | Measures were applied at an appropriate stage to investigate the research question |
S4 | The study used representative sampling techniques |
S5 | Important characteristics of the sample were described |
S6 | The setting and study site were clearly described |
Prognostic indicators | |
PI1 | Clearly defined constructs of what is measured were provided |
PI2 | Justification of the measures used was given |
PI3 | The selection of prognostic indicators recognises the multifactorial nature of RTW |
PI4 | The study used standardised, psychometrically sound instruments for all measures taken |
Analysis | |
A1 | Multivariate techniques were used to adjust for potential confounding variables |
A2 | The analysis avoided over-fitting the data |
A3 | Prospective validation in another cohort was performed |
Follow-up | |
FU1 | RTW outcome was defined in detail, or measure was of sick leave duration |
FU2 | The duration of follow-up was greater than or equal to 6 months |
FU3 | The data were complete for at least 80% of the sample measured at baseline |
FU4 | Outcome measurements were blinded |
Requirements to satisfy quality criteria are available from the corresponding author on request. RTW, return to work.