A literature review summarizes and evaluates existing research to identify what is known, what is missing, and how evidence can guide nursing practice.
Step 1: Define Your Question
Use PICO to structure the question: Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome. For example: “In hospitalized older adults (P), does a fall-prevention bundle (I) compared with usual care (C) reduce fall rates (O)?”
Step 2: Search Systematically
Search databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library. Use combinations of keywords and Boolean operators, such as “nurse AND fall prevention AND older adults.” Record databases, dates, and search terms.
Step 3: Select Studies
Apply inclusion and exclusion criteria based on population, setting, study design, language, and date. Screen titles and abstracts first, then review full texts.
Step 4: Appraise and Extract Data
Assess study quality, sample size, methodology, bias, relevance, and consistency of findings. Extract author, year, setting, participants, intervention, outcomes, and limitations into a summary table.
Step 5: Synthesize and Write
Organize findings by theme rather than simply listing studies. Compare agreements, contradictions, gaps, and implications for nursing practice. End with a clear conclusion and recommendations for future research.