Apprenticeship Learning Log

Date of Learning: 29/11/2024

Time: 13:30-16:30

Title of learning activity: Delivering Quality Care through Evidence Based Practice: Session 8: Searching for relevant literature evidence

Diary of Learning activity

(itemise learning activity and reflect on the main points of learning from each. You should identify for each entry the relevant KSB)

Reflection on Learning Activity (include model of reflection e.g. Driscoll or Gibbs):

Learning outcomes:

What?

In this session, we learned how to find and evaluate information for academic clinical research. The lecture covered search strategies, source selection, evaluation techniques, and referencing. We explored Boolean searching (and, or, not) to refine searches, truncation and wildcards to broaden results, and google advanced search to locate credible sources. The session also explained the pros and cons of books, journals, and websites with an emphasis on peer-reviewed sources for reliability. We were introduced to the CRAAP test (Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, Purpose) to assess the credibility of online resources. The session ended with a discussion on referencing and the importance of citing trustworthy sources.

So what?

This session highlighted the importance of evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing. As a Nursing Associate (NA), using credible and up to date sources is crucial for clinical decision-making and professional accountability. The CRAAP test ensures that research is reliable, unbiased and relevant to patient care. Learning about Boolean operators and database searching helped me understand how effective search strategies improve the quality of information gathered.

One key lesson was the need to distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources. The session showed that open-access sources like Wikipedia and AI- generated content may contain outdated or incorrect information. This is critical in nursing, where using non-peer-reviewed data can compromise patient safety and professional integrity.

I also realised the importance of proper referencing in avoiding plagiarism and maintaining academic integrity.  Referencing strengthens academic writing and reflects professionalism and adherence to NMC guidelines. Understanding how to structure citations ensures I can confidently use evidence-based arguments in my work.

However, finding reliable sources can be time-consuming. The large volume of information, along with paywalls and restrictive databases, makes accessing quality research difficult. This shows the need for efficient search techniques and strong evaluation skills to filter useful data quickly.

Now what?

To improve my research and information literacy skills, I will apply what I learned in my academic and clinical practice: Specific: Improve my ability to find and evaluate reliable sources by practicing Boolean searches and using the CRAAP test. Measurable: Conduct one structured literature search per week using library databases to improve research efficiency. Achievable: book a library session and attend referencing workshop to strengthen my searching and citation skills. Relevant: Developing research and referencing skills will enhance my academic writing and evidence-based practice. Time-bound: Implement these strategies over the next two months, tracking progress through self-reflection and feedback from academic mentors.

KSB addressed: