What step should a nurse take when they have many ideas but no specific topic for their literature review?

Formulating a clear research question is a crucial step in the literature review process, especially when there are many ideas but no focused topic. A well-defined research question helps to narrow down the scope of inquiry and provides direction for the literature search. It allows the researcher to identify what is already known, what gaps exist in the existing research, and what direction the literature review should take.

By developing a clear research question, the nurse can focus their literature search on finding relevant studies, theories, and evidence that specifically address that question. This enhances the efficiency of the review process by filtering out unrelated studies and guiding the selection of literature that will contribute meaningfully to their understanding of the topic.

In contrast, conducting a random survey may yield unrelated or scattered information, and writing a summary of past research without a focused question may not provide new insights or direction. Limiting the search to one database could restrict access to valuable information available in other sources, making it less effective for a comprehensive review. The emphasis on creating a specific research question ensures that the literature review is targeted and relevant, ultimately strengthening the evidence-based practice process.