Managing large-volume literature searches in research synthesis studies.

Abstract: Background: Systematic reviews typically require searching for, retrieving, and screening a large volume of literature, yet little guidance is available on how to manage this volume. Purpose: We detail methods used to search for and manage the yield of relevant citations for a mixed-method...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Nursing Outlook Vol. 62; no. 2; pp. 112 - 119
Autores principales: Havill, Nancy L., Leeman, Jennifer, Shaw-Kokot, Julia, Knafl, Kathleen, Crandell, Jamie, Sandelowski, Margarete
Formato: Journal Article
Publicado: Elsevier B.V. Mar/Apr2014
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:Abstract: Background: Systematic reviews typically require searching for, retrieving, and screening a large volume of literature, yet little guidance is available on how to manage this volume. Purpose: We detail methods used to search for and manage the yield of relevant citations for a mixed-methods, mixed research synthesis study focused on the intersection between family life and childhood chronic physical conditions. Methods: We designed inclusive search strings and searched nine bibliographic databases to identify relevant research regardless of methodological origin. We customized searches to individual databases, developed work-arounds for transferring large volumes of citations and eliminating duplicate citations using reference management software, and used this software as a portal to select citations for inclusion or exclusion. We identified 67,555 citations, retrieved and screened 3,617 reports, and selected 800 reports for inclusion. Discussion/Conclusions: Systematic reviews require search procedures to allow consistent and comprehensive approaches and the ability to work around technical obstacles.