Conducting an effective database search involves several strategic steps:
Define the Research Question: Clearly articulate the epidemiological question or hypothesis you wish to explore. This clarity will guide your search strategy. Identify Relevant Keywords: Develop a list of keywords and phrases related to your topic. Consider using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) for more precise searches. Select Databases: Choose databases that are most likely to contain relevant information for your study. Consider the scope and focus of each database. Use Boolean Operators: Employ operators such as AND, OR, and NOT to refine your search and combine concepts effectively. Apply Filters: Utilize filters to narrow down results by publication date, study type, or population group, aligning with your research needs. Review and Refine: Assess the search results and refine your strategy if necessary. Consider the use of citation databases to track related studies.
