Title: Understanding Evidence-Based Research in Healthcare (a tutorial)
Introduction: The Significance of Evidence-Based Research in Healthcare
In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, staying informed about the latest research is not only
beneficial but often lifesaving. Evidence-based research is the cornerstone of informed decision
making for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers. It ensures that healthcare
practices and policies are grounded in the most reliable and up-to-date evidence, leading to
improved patient outcomes, better-informed clinical decisions, and more effective healthcare
systems.
The objective of this tutorial is to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the
vast world of healthcare research effectively. We will explore the fundamental concepts of
identifying scholarly research, mastering electronic database searches, and critically evaluating
sources. By the end of this tutorial, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the tools and
techniques essential for evidence-based healthcare research.
The key objectives of this tutorial include:
1. Recognizing the importance of scholarly research in healthcare.
2. Learning how to conduct efficient electronic database searches.
3. Understanding the use of limiters to refine search results.
4. Mastering the art of constructing effective keyword searches.
5. Developing the ability to evaluate sources using established criteria.
6. Realizing the benefits of using library databases, Google/Google Scholar and Bing in
tandem.
7. Exploring methods for interviewing scholars and librarians to enhance your research
skills.
Scholarly research plays a pivotal role in healthcare for several compelling reasons. When
healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers rely on evidence-based research, it
significantly enhances the quality of patient care and the overall healthcare system. Here’s
why scholarly research is of paramount importance:
• Reliability and Accuracy: Scholarly research undergoes rigorous evaluation by experts in
the field, ensuring the highest levels of accuracy and reliability. This means that healthcare
professionals can trust the information they find in scholarly sources, making more
informed clinical decisions.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Healthcare is an ever-evolving field. By consulting scholarly
research, healthcare professionals stay current with the latest developments, treatment
modalities, and medical discoveries. Evidence-based practice ensures that patients receive
the most effective and up-to-date care.
• Peer Review: One of the hallmark features of scholarly research is the peer review
process. Before being published, scholarly articles are reviewed by experts in the field.
This review process helps to eliminate errors, bias, and ensures the validity of the research
findings.
• Credibility: Scholarly sources, especially those published in peer-reviewed academic
journals, carry a high degree of credibility. Healthcare institutions and organizations
frequently rely on these sources when formulating policies and guidelines.
Examples: Scholarly vs. Non-Scholarly Sources
• Scholarly Source: “A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Clinical
Oncology that examines the effectiveness of a new chemotherapy regimen for breast
cancer patients.”
• Non-Scholarly Source: “A blog post on a commercial health website discussing various
‘miracle’ cancer treatments with no citations or scientific backing.”
• Scholarly Source: “A research paper in the New England Journal of Medicine detailing a
large-scale clinical trial on the safety and efficacy of a new COVID-19 vaccine.”
• Non-Scholarly Source: “A Wikipedia article about COVID-19 vaccines that can be edited
by anyone and may not cite reputable sources.”
Understanding these differences is essential as it enables healthcare professionals to rely on
information that has been rigorously evaluated, peer-reviewed, and deemed credible, ultimately
ensuring the best possible care for patients.
The Holistic Approach to Searching
Conducting electronic database searches should be part of a holistic approach to information
retrieval. In addition to specialized databases like CINAHL, LIRN and PubMed, it’s beneficial to
utilize general search engines like Google or Bing. These search engines can provide a broader
perspective and uncover resources that might not be present in dedicated databases. The holistic
approach involves cross-referencing information from multiple sources to ensure a comprehensive
and well-informed understanding of the topic at hand. Remember, the combination of specialized
databases and general search engines can enhance the breadth and depth of your research.
Introduction to Popular Healthcare Databases
Three popular healthcare databases are CINAHL, LIRN and PubMed:
• CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature): CINAHL
is a specialized database for nursing and allied health literature. It is particularly
relevant for nursing students and professionals. CINAHL offers access to an extensive
collection of nursing-related resources, including journal articles, research studies, and
clinical guidelines.
• LIRN (ProQuest Central Database): LIRN, a subset of ProQuest Central, is a
multisubject database that includes healthcare-specific resources. It offers a wide range
of content from various disciplines, including healthcare, medicine, and allied health
fields. LIRN is a valuable resource for conducting comprehensive research.
• PubMed: PubMed is a well-known database maintained by the National Center for
Biotechnology Information (NCBI). It covers a broad spectrum of healthcare topics,
making it valuable for healthcare professionals and researchers. PubMed is a vast
repository of biomedical literature, including articles from various medical and
healthcare fields.
Key Characteristics of Scholarly Sources
Scholarly sources exhibit specific characteristics that distinguish them from non-scholarly ones:
• Peer Review: As mentioned, scholarly sources undergo a peer review process where
experts in the field evaluate the research before publication. This rigorous review ensures
that the research is credible and accurate.
• Academic Journals: Scholarly sources are often published in academic journals. These
journals are recognized for their adherence to high editorial and publication standards.
• Citations and References: Scholarly articles include extensive citations and references to
other scholarly works. These citations help you trace the origins of ideas, confirm the
accuracy of information, and explore related research.
• Abstracts and Methodology: Scholarly articles typically include abstracts summarizing
the research and detailed methodologies explaining how the study was conducted. This
transparency is crucial for evaluating the validity of the research.
How to Use Limiters and Their Role in Refining Search Results
In the world of electronic databases, “limiters” are powerful tools that allow you to precisely tailor
your search results. These features help refine your search by applying specific criteria to narrow
down results. Limiters are particularly valuable in healthcare databases, as they can assist in
finding the most relevant and high-quality information for your research.
Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Limiters in (Healthcare) Databases
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set limiters in healthcare databases:
Step 1: Select Your Database
• Begin by selecting the healthcare database you intend to search, such as CINAHL,
PubMed, or LIRN. Access the database through your institution’s library website or
directly if you have a subscription.
Step 2: Define Your Search Query
• Before applying limiters, formulate a clear search query that outlines your research topic.
Having a well-structured query is crucial for the effectiveness of your search.
Step 3: Access Advanced Search Options
• Once you’re within the database, navigate to the advanced search options. This is where
you’ll find the tools to set your limiters.
Identify Available Limiters
• In the advanced search menu, locate the section where limiters are available. The types of
limiters may vary depending on the database, but common ones include:
• Publication Date: Specify a date range for the publications you want to retrieve. This can
help you access the most recent or historically significant research.
• Peer-Reviewed: Choose the option to retrieve only peer-reviewed articles. This ensures
that your results meet high-quality academic standards.
• Study Type: Select the types of studies you’re interested in, such as clinical trials,
systematic reviews, or observational studies.
• Language: Filter results by language to ensure you receive publications in a language you
understand.
• Age Group: If your research involves a specific age group, like pediatrics or geriatrics,
you can narrow down your results accordingly.
• Full Text Available: Opt for results that provide full-text access, which can be essential
for an in-depth review.
• Publication Type: Specify the types of publications you’re looking for, such as journal
articles, books, or conference papers.
Set Your Limiters
• After identifying the available limiters, select the ones that best match your
research requirements. You can often activate these limiters with checkboxes or
dropdown menus.
Here are some examples to demonstrate how limiters can be utilized to refine search results:
Example 1: Peer-Reviewed Articles
• If you’re conducting research that demands peer-reviewed sources for academic
credibility, apply the “Peer-Reviewed” limiter to receive results exclusively from
peer-reviewed journals.
Example 2: Recent Research
• If your research relies on the latest advancements in the field, set a “Publication
Date” limiter to retrieve articles published within the past five years.
Example 3: Specific Age Group
• Suppose you’re working on a project concerning pediatric healthcare. Use the “Age
Group” limiter to restrict your results to articles that focus on children.
Example 4: Full-Text Availability
• When it’s vital to access complete articles, activate the “Full Text Available” limiter to
ensure that your search results contain articles with full-text access.
Using Limiters Wisely
While limiters can significantly enhance the precision of your searches, it’s essential to use them
wisely. Applying too many limiters can sometimes lead to overly narrow search results,
potentially excluding valuable resources. Therefore, it’s advisable to strike a balance by selecting
the most relevant limiters that align with your research objectives.
Limiters are valuable allies in the quest for targeted and evidence-based research. Whether you’re
conducting a literature review or investigating a specific topic, understanding how to effectively
utilize limiters in healthcare databases is a skill that can save you time and improve the quality of
your research.
Tips for Effective Keyword Searches
Crafting Effective Search Queries with Keywords
Effective keyword searches are the cornerstone of successful database research. In healthcare,
where precision is paramount, constructing well-thought-out search queries can make all the
difference in finding relevant information. Here are some key tips to guide you through this
process:
The Art of Crafting Search Queries
• Start with a Clear Focus: Begin your search by identifying the main elements of your
research question or topic. What are the key concepts or aspects you need to explore?
• Identify Keywords: For each concept or aspect, generate a list of relevant keywords. These
are the words or phrases that best represent the elements of your research. Be specific and
think about synonyms or related terms.
• Boolean Operators: Utilize Boolean operators like “AND,” “OR,” and “NOT” to connect
your keywords logically. “AND” narrows your search by requiring all terms to appear,
“OR” broadens it by including any of the terms, and “NOT” excludes specific terms.
The Power of Synonyms and Related Terms
In the realm of healthcare research, synonyms and related terms are your allies. Different authors
and sources may use varying terminology to describe the same concepts. Incorporating synonyms
and related terms in your search queries broadens your search and ensures you don’t miss valuable
articles.
• Example 1: If you’re researching heart attacks, also include terms like “myocardial
infarction” or “acute coronary syndrome.”
• Example 2: For studies related to mental health, include synonyms like “psychological
well-being,” “emotional health,” or “mental wellness.”
Speaking the Language of Databases
Every database has its unique language. Understanding this language, often hidden in subject
headings or controlled vocabularies, can significantly enhance your searches. When using specific
databases like CINAHL, PubMed, or LIRN, it’s essential to become familiar with their preferred
terms and the way they organize information.
• Tip 1: Explore Subject Headings (MeSH Terms): In databases like PubMed, investigate
their Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) to find the standardized terms used for specific
medical concepts. This ensures your query aligns with the database’s terminology.
• Tip 2: Database Thesaurus: Many databases have a thesaurus or vocabulary guide. Refer
to it to discover approved terms and the hierarchical structure of the database’s language.
Practical Examples of Search Queries
To illustrate the process of constructing effective search queries, here are examples for various
healthcare topics:
Example 1: Diabetes Management in Adolescents
• Start with the core concepts: “diabetes,” “management,” “adolescents.”
• Identify synonyms and related terms: “type 1 diabetes,” “adolescent health,” “diabetes
care.”
• Construct your query: “(diabetes OR ‘type 1 diabetes’) AND (management OR care) AND
(adolescents OR ‘adolescent health’).”
Example 2: Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Obesity
• Core concepts: “cardiovascular risk,” “obesity.”
• Synonyms and related terms: “heart disease risk,” “overweight,” “body mass index.”
• The query: “(cardiovascular risk OR ‘heart disease risk’) AND (obesity OR overweight OR
‘body mass index’).”
Effective keyword searches are not only about creativity but also about precision. By
understanding the language of databases and incorporating synonyms, you’ll improve your ability
to locate the most relevant and valuable sources in the world of healthcare research.
Evaluating Sources of Evidence
The Vital Role of Critical Evaluation
In the realm of healthcare, where the accuracy and reliability of information are of utmost
importance, the ability to critically evaluate sources is a fundamental skill. Every piece of
information you encounter should be assessed for its quality and trustworthiness. Here’s why it’s
crucial:
• Patient Care and Well-being: In healthcare, the stakes are high. Incorrect or unreliable
information can impact patient care and well-being. As a healthcare practitioner or
researcher, your decisions are only as good as the information on which they are based.
• Scientific Advancement: Valid and credible research forms the foundation of scientific
advancement in healthcare. Failing to critically evaluate sources can lead to the
perpetuation of flawed or outdated practices.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Healthcare professionals are expected to embrace evidence
based practice. This means using the best available evidence from quality sources to
inform decisions. Evaluating sources is a key part of this process.
Evaluation Criteria: CRAAP Method
One of the most effective ways to critically assess sources is by employing an evaluation
framework. The CRAAP method is a widely recognized framework that includes five essential
criteria: Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose. Here’s what each of these
criteria entails:
• Currency: Assess how up to date the information is. In healthcare, timeliness is often
paramount. Ask yourself, is the publication date recent enough to be relevant to your
topic?
• Relevance: Determine if the information directly relates to your research question or
topic. Irrelevant information can lead you astray.
• Authority: Investigate the qualifications and expertise of the author or source. In
healthcare, credibility is crucial. Ask, is the author an expert in the field, and is the source
reputable?
• Accuracy: Scrutinize the reliability and correctness of the information. In healthcare,
accuracy is non-negotiable. Is the information supported by credible references or
evidence?
• Purpose: Uncover the intentions behind the source. In healthcare, hidden biases can be
detrimental. Is the source impartial, or is there an underlying agenda?
Putting CRAAP into Action
Example: Let’s say you come across a healthcare blog post claiming a new miracle cure
for a common condition. To apply the CRAAP method, you would:
• Currency: Check the publication date. If the blog post is from a few years ago, it
may not represent the most recent research or medical advances.
• Relevance: Examine if the blog post addresses your specific healthcare topic. A
post about a miracle cure may not be relevant to in-depth research on treatment
options.
• Authority: Investigate the author’s credentials. If the blog post is written by a
renowned medical professional or supported by credible institutions, it might be
more authoritative.
• Accuracy: Scrutinize the post for citations or references to scientific studies. A
lack of supporting evidence can be a red flag for accuracy.
• Purpose: Consider the blog’s objectives. Is it trying to sell a product, or does it aim
to provide accurate medical information?
Benefits of Library Databases
The Power of Library Databases
Library databases are invaluable tools in the world of healthcare research. Here’s why you should
make them your go-to source:
• Credibility: Library databases offer access to peer-reviewed, scholarly resources. This
means the sources have undergone rigorous evaluation by experts in the field, ensuring
their credibility.
• Verified Information: Unlike the vast, unfiltered expanse of the internet, library
databases contain verified information. These resources are carefully curated, saving you
the time and effort required to separate fact from fiction.
• Access to Scholarly Resources: Within library databases, you’ll find a wealth of scholarly
articles, academic journals, and research papers. These are the lifeblood of evidence-based
healthcare research.
• Advanced Search Features: Library databases provide advanced search features that
allow you to pinpoint exactly what you need, from precise publication dates to specific
authors.
The Convenience of Preselected Sources
One of the most significant benefits of using library databases is the convenience of preselected
and evaluated sources. Instead of embarking on a wild internet quest, you can trust that the
sources you find in library databases are already reliable and pertinent to your research.
Combing Library Databases with Google, Google Scholar, Bing, etc.
Using the Best of Both Worlds (Ensure your search process remains adaptable, enabling smooth
transitions between various sources and avoiding fixation on a single location.)
In healthcare research, the stakes are high, and you need access to the most accurate, up-to-date
information. That’s where the combination of library databases and Google Scholar comes into
play.
• The Library Database Advantage: Library databases provide you with peer-reviewed,
scholarly resources. They’re like a highly curated collection of the best healthcare research
available. When you’re aiming for precision and reliability, start here.
• The Google Scholar, Google, Bing: Various online databases may uncover resources that
are not in library databases but are still valuable. It’s particularly useful when you need to
cross-reference, explore emerging research, or find alternative perspectives.
Cross-Referencing and Expanding Your Options
The synergy between library databases and Google Scholar offers a comprehensive approach to
research. Here’s how you can benefit:
• Cross-Referencing: If you discover a source in a library database, consider cross
referencing it on Google Scholar. This can lead you to additional research that
complements your findings.
• Expanding Your Options: Sometimes, you may hit a roadblock in your library database
search. Turning to Google Scholar, Google, Bing, etc. can expand your options and
provide fresh insights.
By combining the depth of library databases with the breadth of Google Scholar, Google, Bing,
etc. you’re equipped to conduct thorough and meticulous healthcare research that leaves no stone
unturned.
BSN 435 Tutorial for Locating and Appraising Research
Evan John