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Updated: May 26, 2026

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Comparing Bibliometric Analysis Using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science Databases
Published on: October 24, 2019
Searching the literature: a researcher's perspective
1Columbia St. Mary's Hospital-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. lczaplew@columbia-stmarys.org
Summary
Professional nurses often face clinical questions without immediate answers, prompting a need for research skills. This guide provides a step-by-step method for conducting literature searches and understanding related terminology.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Research
- Evidence-Based Practice
Background:
- Nurses frequently encounter clinical questions in practice.
- Accessing research is crucial for informed decision-making and professional development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To guide nurse researchers through the process of conducting literature searches.
- To define common terminology associated with research and literature retrieval.
Main Methods:
- A step-by-step approach to identifying relevant research literature.
- Explanation of essential terms and concepts in literature searching.
Main Results:
- Nurses can gain confidence in their ability to find research answers.
- Improved understanding of how to access and utilize scholarly databases.
Conclusions:
- Familiarity with literature search methods empowers nurses to find evidence.
- Effective literature searching is a vital skill for contemporary nursing practice.
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