Question

Compare and contrast the quality of evidence-based nursing resources found on the internet with those in library databases

Answer 1

Compare and contrast the quality of evidence-based nursing resources found on the internet with those in library databases

Internet:

1. Many people believe that everything is now available on the Web, for free to everyone. This just isn't so.
2. The credibility of health information on the Web can be questionable.
3. Searching the web through general search engines like Google and Bing can be overwhelming and time consuming.

As professionals you will want to use bibliographic databases such as CINAHL and PubMed (MEDLINE) to keep current with the research literature. In addition, full text databases such as the Cochrane Library (a database of systematic reviews), textbook resources and electronic journals such as Evidence Based Nursing can provide needed information, quickly and easily.

Not all journals that you will want to read will have online access. The UMBrella contains journals in print. To find a particular journal, type the title in the box. Select "Journal Title" from the "All fields" drop-down menu.

Specific Evidence Based Practice Journals to Look For
The following journals use predefined criteria to publish evaluated abstracts of the literature and comment on the methodology of each published study. In other words, these journals perform systematic reviews of the literature, performing the critical appraisal and assessment of the literature mentioned in the "steps" of evidence based practice.

******Library databases:.....

While some web-based resources are free, many quality resources, such as the indexes, databases, journals, and textbooks that you need to do your job have a cost associated with them. Libraries provide access to many online resources, by paying subscription fees to publishers and vendors with the understanding that their library users can access this information from within the library, on campus, and sometimes from off-campus computers as well through proxy access. Your campus username and password will provide access to the Healey Library's many resources on the Databases List.

Evidence Based Practice Databases

Below are databases that focus specifically on Evidence Based Practice that you may find helpful.

• Cochrane Library

  Databases that focus on the effects of health care and evidence based medical practice.
  NHS Economic Evaluation Database, Health Technology Assessments, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Cochrane Methodology Register

• National Guideline Clearinghouse

  A comprehensive database of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines and related documents, an initiative of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ).