Reflective Exercise

Apply the approach to searching outlined in Table 5.3 to your next assignment

Table 5.3 Steps in undertaking a literature search

• Ensure you have access to online searching, such as databases and the internet.
• Locate suitable libraries that might support your search.
• Become familiar with the variety of sources of literature.
• Become familiar with the range of ‘searching facilities’ available to you, e.g., electronic resources, indexes, abstracts, websites and current awareness publications.
• Identify key words and develop a search strategy to help you methodically and thoroughly search through abstracts and indexes using the internet.
• Obtain the reports and articles that you want to critically appraise.
• Record the full details and reference of the article, report or evidence, including the source and date of access.

ADDITIONAL MATERIALS:

You may find the websites listed below helpful in further developing your understanding.

Health Information Resources: www.nhsghpcat.org

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence: www.evidence.nhs.uk

Social Care Online: www.scie-socialcareonline.org.uk