In conducting a subject search in an electronic database, what should a nurse typically begin with?

Starting with a keyword or phrase is the most effective approach when conducting a subject search in an electronic database. This method enables the nurse to tailor their search to specific topics, concepts, or clinical questions, which are fundamental for obtaining relevant evidence-based information.

Using a keyword or phrase allows for a broader range of articles, research studies, and reviews that may be related to the query at hand. It enhances the chances of retrieving comprehensive resources that cover the desired subject matter, as databases typically index articles by keywords associated with their content.

While other methods, such as searching by journal title, a researcher’s name, or a date range, can be useful in specific scenarios, they tend to be more limiting. Searching by journal title restricts the results to a specific publication, focusing only on that source. Searching by a researcher’s name may yield a limited selection of studies authored by that individual, and setting a date range typically narrows results to a specific time period, which might exclude important information outside of that range. Thus, beginning with a keyword or phrase optimally balances breadth and relevance in the search process.