Introduction
The research literature is necessary to inform about evidence-based practices. The healthcare system is also no exception, and many papers can be useful for scientists and health professionals, including nurses. Effectively searching and analyzing relevant research is critical (Dash et al., 2019). Research data are needed to enable specialists to understand the latest results. The purpose of this essay is to consider methods of searching and evaluating medical literature.
Interview
Interviews can be conducted to get an idea of the methods professionals use. A nurse scientist was interviewed, and the literature review process was explained. The interviewee stressed that a systematic literature review is essential in his profession, as it summarizes existing data. These actions provide a critical assessment of several studies. This approach ensures excellent research reliability and demonstrates the nurses’ professionalism.
The scientist also noted the need to use authoritative sources and databases. This approach provides access to high-quality, credible research. It is also important to rely on the reliability of the authors. In evaluating the study, one should examine the sources to better understand the level of credibility. Thus, the interview gave a better understanding of the methods of choosing research.
Locating Sources
To be accurate, sourcing must be done systematically. One of the most effective strategies is to use specialized databases in a particular area. For example, the scientist recommended using PubMed and CINAHL, both recognized databases. Search filters refine the search results and allow one to focus on the most relevant research (Karlsson et al., 2020). Thus, databases provide access to many scientific materials and clinical experiments.
Evaluating the research methodology is an important aspect. In addition to this factor, one can also consider research design. Different types of research have strengths and limitations. Understanding these factors allows us to fully evaluate the evidence. These include, for example, qualitative studies and controlled or randomized trials (Renjith et al., 2021).
Critical evaluation is important for determining the relevance of research. This assessment allows specialists to determine the applicability of research results (Renjith et al., 2021). This issue is particularly relevant in the field of health, as the reliability of sources can affect human life. In addition, it is important to consider how the results manifest themselves in specific medical settings. Thus, sourcing is a difficult task that is essential for the better functioning of the field.
Electronic Databases
Several assumptions can be made about the preferred use of electronic databases. For example, PubMed is valuable in the healthcare system and is highly valued among experts. This database contains a wide range of biomedical literature that a specialist may need (Bonciani et al., 2018). This literature includes articles from authoritative journals and clinical manuals written by professionals. Also, in this database, one can find media such as medical video conference materials.
It is important to use some techniques to find the correct information. The interviewer focused on the use of appropriate search conditions. Keywords with “AND” or “OR” may be useful in extending or narrowing the search. Medical terms MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) can be used to improve the accuracy of the search (Bonciani et al., 2018). They can guide search algorithms to specific concepts.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The use of electronic databases has many advantages. These include a wide range of search literature and easy access to materials. Moreover, the search can be performed according to specific criteria required by the user. With the help of databases, specialists can find the information necessary for deciding on the patient (Dash et al., 2019). Databases are essential for health professionals to obtain the necessary information.
However, electronic databases also have drawbacks. One is the possibility of obtaining biased information from publications. Negative or insignificant results can be unpublished, which distorts the provision of evidence (Dash et al., 2019). At the same time, studies with positive results are more likely to be published. Thus, using databases has more advantages, but specialists should also pay attention to the objectivity of information.
Adequacy
The material provided by electronic databases is generally sufficient. At the same time, it is important to bear in mind that no single database contains the entire volume of research literature. PubMed and CINAHL cover a wide range of health-related research. However, some specialized studies may not get into the public domain (Dash et al., 2019). For example, this is possible if the author does not wish to do their work in public.
Health professionals face the difficult task of selecting resources. Researchers need to pay attention to a wide range of sources, not all of which are easy to find in databases. For example, it is important to consider unreleased literature and research and the proceedings of various conferences. This approach comprehensively studies the already available medical data (Flores et al., 2021). Thus, not every study in the database can be called adequate, but the specialist is responsible for selecting the sources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, searching and evaluating research literature can be key factors in the medical field. The use of authoritative data and their critical evaluation reveals evidence from sources. It is important to be aware of the limitations of databases and the latest research in the nursing field (Dash et al., 2019). Moreover, it is important to consider the strengths and weaknesses of databases to assess them critically. Thus, a systematic review and literature analysis are essential, allowing the specialist to navigate abundant research literature.
References
Bonciani, M., Schäfer, W., Barsanti, S., Heinemann, S., & Groenewegen, P. P. (2018). The benefits of co-location in primary care practices: the perspectives of general practitioners and patients in 34 countries. BMC Health Services Research, 18(1). Web.
Dash, S., Shakyawar, S. K., Sharma, M., & Kaushik, S. (2019). Big data in healthcare: management, analysis and prospects. Journal of Big Data, 6(1). Web.
Flores, L. J. Y., Tonato, R. R., Dela Paz, G. A., & Ulep, V. G. (2021). Optimizing health facility location for universal health care: A case study from the Philippines. PloS One, 16(9), e0256821. Web.
Karlsson, S., Ridbäck, A., Brobeck, E., & Norell Pejner, M. (2020). Health promotion practices in nursing for elderly persons in municipal home care: An integrative literature review. Home Health Care Management & Practice, 32(1), 53–61. Web.
Renjith, V., Yesodharan, R., Noronha, J. A., Ladd, E., & George, A. (2021). Qualitative methods in health care research. International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 12, 20. Web.