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Allied Health Professions for the Healthcare Library: Finding articles

Library Search

 

If know the exact title of the article you need then you can try searching the library directly using the Library Search box.

Or if you have a topic just enter a few keywords into the search box & limit your search to articles.  Always remember for more detailed systematic searching it's best to search the databases outlined below.

 

Databases

Databases enable you to search for articles on a topic across a large number of journals at the same time.  Below are some of the key databases most relevant to AHP's. You need your Healthcare Library logon details for access.  If you are not familiar with searching databases see the general tips box or don't hesitate to contact your specialist librarian.

General Searching Tips

  • break your search/topic down into 2 or 3 key concepts
  • think of keywords, including synonyms, for each key concept
  • for the main databases, such as Cinahl, search for your keywords, for each concept, one at time
  • As a general rule, use OR to combine similar subjects, for instance "tennis elbow" OR "lateral epicondylitis"
  • Use AND to combine different subjects, for instance "rehabiltiation" AND "stroke"
  • use the limits in the databases to further reduce your search results - for instance, you can usually limit to years of publication or English language only
  • searches carried out on the databases can be saved or alerts created, you just need to set up an account within the database

Example:-

Review the literature on effective treatment of tennis elbow.

Concept 1: physiotherapy techniques OR strengthening exercise OR eccentric training OR acupuncture OR steroid injection

AND

Concept 2:  tennis elbow OR lateral epicondylitis

Please contact your specialist librarian if you require further help in using the databases or carrying out a literature search.

Request a literature search

It is always best to carry out your own literature search.  However if you are struggling to find relevant literature or are pushed for time you can request a literature search online.