Most likely, you first read about the various procedures,
learned what to expect in typical situations, and then
practiced in a laboratory setting. Learning to search for
information can be approached in a similar way. Gaining
insight about how information resources are structured,
what their contents contain, and what search techniques
work best increases your skill and efficiency.
Many factors come into play when conducting a search of the literature.
What interests you about the topic should determine the depth and breadth
of the search, which sources to search, and the dates of publication to include.
Immediate access to sources being sought is not always possible. Sometimes it
may take several weeks to acquire sources, while other sources may be unob-
tainable. Knowing this encourages implementing strategies to ensure that you
are able to meet deadlines.
After the research question is developed, the researcher is ready to proceed
through the steps of the literature review process. Using selected search words
and terms based on the topic, the researcher searches databases, organizes
search results, locates full content of the materials, and evaluates the evidence
for its usefulness. Being aware of these steps focuses attention on the process
and results.
When information applicable to the subject has been gathered, it is important
to keep in mind that the process might not be finished. It is not usual for indi-
viduals to quit at this point, satisfied that the information they have gathered
will somehow work within their needs. Carefully reviewing obtained materials
to ensure that they are appropriate can save time and money. Reexamine the
original focus and search strategy to ensure that the information obtained is
indeed useful. If it is not, determine where the search was flawed and decide
whether a new search is necessary.
Finally, make sure that the information gathered is scholarly. Information
should be written by knowledgeable authors, published by respected sources,
and be appropriately current. The content of information should always be
evaluated, appraised on criteria such as intended audience, depth of cover-
age, objectivity, and related reviews. When you are unsure of the credibility of
information, nursing faculty or librarians can provide guidance.
Consult with an Information Resources
Expert
Working with a librarian is guaranteed to save you time. Using a systematic
review to support their claim, Weightman and Williamson (2005) noted that
“there is evidence that library services can lead to time savings for healthcare
FYI
To create an EBP, nurses must be aware
of information retrieval options. Librarians
are an excellent resource for becoming an
effective researcher.4.3 How Sources Are Organized 103