Preparing for the Discussion
This discussion focuses on developing strong literature search skills, which are essential for finding reliable nursing research. The task involves reviewing learning materials about literature search strategies and then applying those strategies to locate recent research related to a previously identified patient safety problem.
The goal of this assignment is not just to find articles, but to demonstrate understanding of how research is located, filtered, and supported when challenges arise. This process helps build confidence in evidence-based nursing practice.
What This Discussion Is Really Testing
Before starting, it helps to understand what the instructor is looking for. This discussion is mainly assessing the ability to:
- Identify reliable research sources
- Use effective search terms
- Find recent scholarly articles
- Reflect on challenges faced during searching
- Recognize where support can be found when needed
Understanding these expectations makes it easier to stay focused while completing the assignment.
Key Areas to Focus On
When completing this discussion, attention should be given to the following required components:
1. Databases, Search Engines, and Search Terms
Students are expected to identify the academic databases used during the literature search. Common nursing databases may include sources that specialize in medical and nursing research. The search terms used should be clearly stated and directly related to the selected patient safety problem.
Using precise keywords improves the quality of search results and helps narrow down relevant research articles.
2. Number of Recent Research Articles Found
The assignment requires reporting the number of scholarly research articles published within the last five years. This ensures that the literature reflects current nursing standards, guidelines, and patient safety practices.
The focus should remain on peer-reviewed research articles rather than general articles or opinion-based sources.
3. Challenges Encountered During the Search
Literature searches may present several challenges, such as difficulty locating full-text articles, identifying relevant keywords, or filtering results to match required dates.
Describing these challenges shows awareness of the research process and demonstrates problem-solving skills.
4. Sources of Help in the Workplace
This section requires identifying professionals or resources that can provide assistance when difficulties arise during a literature search.
Support systems are an important part of professional nursing practice and help ensure accuracy in evidence-based research.
How to Approach This Assignment
Start by reviewing the learning materials carefully and identifying the strategies that relate to searching for research articles. Pay close attention to examples of keywords, database navigation, and filtering techniques. After reviewing the materials, revisit the selected patient safety problem and think about the main ideas or keywords connected to it.
Instead of rushing into searching, take a moment to plan possible keyword combinations and consider how they relate to the topic. While searching, remain flexible and adjust keywords when results appear too broad or too limited. It is also helpful to keep short notes about the steps taken during the search, since this makes writing the discussion easier later.
If challenges arise, treat them as part of the learning process rather than mistakes. Exploring different search methods and reaching out for help when necessary strengthens research confidence and supports long-term academic success.
Sample Solution
For my literature review on the effect of mood on pressure ulcers, I started with the library at Walden and searched through EBSCOhost. I immediately set the dates to only return articles published in the last five years. During my first few searches, I combined terms that I thought would produce enough positive results on my question. However, I quickly found that performing a literary search on a topic…..Click below to access the full sample solution (PDF)