Locating Credible Databases and Research
Evidence-based practice (EBP) is essential in nursing as it integrates current research, clinical expertise, and patient preferences to enhance care quality and patient outcomes. As with any other healthcare work environment, nurses practicing in this setting have to be familiar with methods of accessing research information. This paper aims to come up with guidelines on how a new nurse will be able to research Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) in terms of appropriate databases or research sources: Locating Credible Databases and Research.
Communication and Collaboration Strategies
Encouraging nurses to research a diagnosis requires effective communication and collaboration strategies. A direct approach involves explaining why EBP is essential to achieve better patient outcomes and enhance professional proficiency. Providing structured guidance, such as step-by-step instructions on database navigation, can help alleviate anxiety associated with independent research.
Additionally, involvement in group discussions, illustration of searches, and providing guidance helps build confidence in the nurse. Studies have suggested that integrated efforts among nurses for collaborative learning can have a positive effect on knowledge as well as the general incorporation of EBP in clinical procedures (Brunt & Morris, 2023).
Effective communication strategies include active listening, motivational interviewing, and reflective questioning. Fostering open communication ensures the nurses can voice any concern or challenge they may have in opting for and comprehending research. Positive approaches of constructive criticism and encouragement encourage the nurses to learn and develop their skills. Moreover, the invitation to attend workshops and group discussions within the framework of evidence-based research can also help to develop an interest in working with research databases.
Collaboration strategies involve guiding nurses to institutional resources such as hospital librarians, research committees, and clinical educators who can assist in navigating databases. Some of the better practices include implementing a mentorship program in which new nurses are mentored by practicing nurses in EBP (Schuler et al., 2021). Extra-hospital collaborations can be attained through regular dialogue with other researchers in various fields as well as attending professional associations, like the American Heart Association, or online forums that focus on nursing research.
Furthermore, fostering interprofessional collaboration is crucial in ensuring a holistic approach to patient care. Nurses should seek input from cardiologists, pharmacists, and physical therapists in order to have a balanced view of the management of AMI. Through the sharing of knowledge and expertise, the nurses’ level of knowledge can be expanded concerning the appropriate way of practicing and making clinical decisions. These quality improvement efforts and functioning in the EBP committees can enhance the culture of research in nursing practice at the hospital.
Best Places to Conduct Research in the Workplace
The hospital environment provides various locations to conduct research effectively. The most efficient location is the hospital’s online library, which offers access to medical research databases such as CINAHL, PubMed, and Medline. Furthermore, computers located at nursing stations enable the nurse to refer to the facility’s protocols and evidence-based practice sources.
Another well-sourced instrument is a hospital policy database that encompasses guidelines for AMI treatment in the corresponding institution. Teamwork is also an essential element that enables a healthcare worker to discuss particular cases with other experienced members of the team. Thus, the use of such workplace resources helps the nurse to find accurate and up-to-date information and materials.
Besides hospital library and internet searches, the idea of teaming up with the clinical facilitators, nurse researchers, and policy-making committees offers other ways of obtaining evidence-based information. Hospital librarians are especially valuable as they work within the medical field and can help a nurse find reliable sources (Oermann et al., 2021). In addition, case conferences and clinical rounds help facilitate an exchange of information on contemporary treatment of AMI and the most recent literature.
Another effective research avenue is engaging in professional development opportunities such as journal clubs and nursing conferences. These platforms offer information on the current AMI research, new treatment approaches, and online sessions conducted by specialists on the best intervention. Hospitals should motivate the nurses to attend such occasions or undertake online courses in order to update themselves and better manage patients with cardiac conditions. Additionally, the adoption of telehealth and digital library resources enhances nursing access to and the integration of up-to-date studies into the management of patient care.
Five Credible Online Sources for AMI Research
PubMed (Most Useful)
PubMed provides access to peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, and clinical trials on AMI. It is maintained by the National Library of Medicine (NLM) and includes extensive literature on AMI diagnosis, interventions, and new treatment strategies. According to NLM, “PubMed comprises more than 38 million citations for biomedical literature from MEDLINE, life science journals, and online books” (National Library of Medicine, 2025, para. 1). This makes it a valuable government-supported source for up-to-date, high-quality research.
CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature)
CINAHL is a nursing database that provides studies on AMI care management with a focus on patient care models and medication compliance initiatives. Hopia and Heikkilä (2020) describe CINAHL as “an extremely important electronic database for nurses and nurse researchers,” highlighting its role in supporting evidence-based nursing interventions (p. 483). It offers best practice models and research on how nurses can better manage structured care to enhance AMI patient outcomes.
Cochrane Library
Cochrane Library offers systematic reviews and meta-analyses on AMI management and treatment to help clients get the best results. To reduce bias, Seidler et al. (2020) point out that Cochrane reviews are the “gold standard” for healthcare evidence, reducing bias through systematic reviews and meta-analyses (p. 1). These reviews enhance research reliability and inform evidence-based AMI treatment protocols.
American Heart Association (AHA) Website
The AHA provides regularly updated AMI clinical guidelines, treatment recommendations, and research updates. It highlights cardiac bundle protocols, which include early aspirin administration, beta-blockers, statins, and reperfusion therapy as part of best-practice standards for AMI care (Virani et al., 2023). These guidelines are evidence-based and widely accepted in cardiology.
Hospital Policy Database (Least Useful)
Although AMI treatment guidelines may be available within the hospital policy database of each facility, they are not based on peer-reviewed research or external data. Gianfrancesco and Goldstein (2021) highlight that EHR-based data was not originally designed for research, often missing key clinical and epidemiological insights (p. 3).
Rationale for Selected Sources
The selected databases and resources are the most suitable for the management of acute-phase AMI patients since they present current, evidence-based, and clinical information. CINAHL has primarily centered its publishing of peer-reviewed research articles in AMI on those delivering nursing interventions, including the early identification of the condition, patient information, and medication compliance. PubMed containing articles indexed by the US National Library of Medicine provided a large pool of citations for future studies: emergency AMI, thrombolytic therapy, and PCI trials (National Library of Medicine, 2025).
The Cochrane Library contributes to clinical decision-making for AMI patients by offering systematic reviews and meta-analyses of the treatment efficacy, using only the highest quality and least biased data. American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines serve as a primary reference for real-time decision-making in acute AMI cases, outlining cardiac care bundles that emphasize aspirin administration, beta-blockers, reperfusion therapy, and statin use (Virani et al., 2023). These standardized interventions are crucial for ensuring timely and effective AMI treatment.
The hospital policy database examines the organization’s internal compliance with non-AMI guidelines and also refers to AMI protocols specific to the facility. To ensure that the best patient care is provided during critical, time-sensitive circumstances, such as cases of acute myocardial infarction, nurses need to be conversant with evidence from Cochrane, CINAHL, and PubMed in addition to AHA guidelines and institutional protocols.
When selecting sources for research, it is essential to evaluate them using the CRAAP model (Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose). Peer-reviewed scientific journals ensure credibility, while clinical guidelines like those from AHA offer standardized, patient-centered recommendations. Implementing a combination of systematic reviews, clinical trials, and evidence-based guidelines ensures that nurses apply the highest level of evidence in real-time AMI care, improving patient outcomes and reducing complications (Oermann et al., 2021).
These sources were chosen because they present the most up-to-date and scientifically supported knowledge on the care of the acute phase of AMI patients for application in real-life practice. PubMed and CINAHL offer peer-reviewed studies that guide immediate interventions such as thrombolytic therapy, PCI, and medication management.
Cochrane Library offers particular databases on the effectiveness of interventions in patients with acute AMI and strategies to reduce mortality. The AHA website also reflects the current AMI emergency care standards to adhere to the time criticalism of other bundles, including aspirin, reperfusions, and beta blockers (Virani et al., 2023). Finally, the hospital policy database helps the institution adhere strictly to the procedures for handling acute AMI.
Conclusion
Considering that EBP is one of the key concerns in the profession today, it is critical to assist new nurses in accessing reliable sources of research. Communication and interaction patterns facilitate the integration of research in nursing practice. Employing available resources at the workplace and researching information from accredited sources ensure that the nurses are well-informed.
Healthcare organizations help nurses navigate the research process, enhance patient outcomes, and promote the culture of continuing education. Besides, a strong, systematic study based on evidence always results in positive and sustainable change in care. This means that by providing nurses with education on EBP, patient-centered care is still maintained in the health system.
References
Brunt, B. A., & Morris, M. M. (2023, March 4). Nursing professional development evidence-based practice. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK589676/
Gianfrancesco, M. A., & Goldstein, N. D. (2021). A narrative review on the validity of electronic health record-based research in epidemiology. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 21(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12874-021-01416-5
Hopia, H., & Heikkilä, J. (2020). Nursing research priorities based on CINAHL database: A scoping review. Nursing Open, 7(2), 483–494. https://doi.org/10.1002/nop2.428
National Library of Medicine. (2025). PubMed. PubMed Labs. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Oermann, M. H., Wrigley, J., Nicoll, L. H., Ledbetter, L. S., Carter-Templeton, H., & Edie, A. H. (2021). The integrity of databases for literature searches in nursing. Advances in Nursing Science, 44(2), 102–110. https://doi.org/10.1097/ANS.0000000000000349
Schuler, E., Mott, S., Forbes, P. W., Schmid, A., Atkinson, C., & DeGrazia, M. (2021). Evaluation of an evidence-based practice mentorship program in a pediatric quaternary care setting. Journal of Research in Nursing, 26(1-2), 149–165. https://doi.org/10.1177/1744987121991417
Seidler, A. L., Hunter, K. E., Cheyne, S., Berlin, J. A., Ghersi, D., & Askie, L. M. (2020). Prospective meta-analyses and Cochrane’s role in embracing next-generation methodologies. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 89(67). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.ed000145
Virani, S. S., Newby, L. K., Arnold, S. V., Bittner, V., Brewer, L. C., Demeter, S. H., Dixon, D. L., Fearon, W. F., Hess, B., Johnson, H. M., Kazi, D. S., Kolte, D., Kumbhani, D. J., Lofaso, J., Mahtta, D., Mark, D. B., Minissian, M., Navar, A. M., Patel, A. R., & Piano, M. R. (2023). 2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA guideline for the management of patients with chronic coronary disease: A report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on clinical practice guidelines. Circulation, 148(9), e9–e119. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001168
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Question 
Create a 2-4 page resource that will describe databases that are relevant to EBP around one of the diagnoses found in the provided PDF supplement and could be used to help a new hire nurse better engage in EBP.
Introduction
Evidence-based practice (EBP) integrates the best evidence available to guide optimal nursing care, with a goal to enhance safety and quality. EBP is crucial to nursing practice because it incorporates the best evidence from current literature, along with the expertise of the practicing nurse. The concern for quality care that flows from EBP generates a desired outcome.
Without these factors, a nurse cannot be an effective leader. It is important to lead not only from this position but from knowledge and expertise. To gain the knowledge, you require a good understanding of how to search for scholarly resources, as well as identify which databases and websites are credible for the purposes of implementing evidence-based changes in practice.
Your Online e-Portfolio
Creating an ePortfolio is not required in the BSN program, but you may find it helpful to create one to attach to your professional resume while job hunting. Online ePortfolios serve two key purposes: 1) to support learning and reflection, and 2) to be used as a showcase tool. Your learning journey can be documented, and ePortfolios contribute to lifelong learning and growth through reflection and sharing. Online ePortfolios can also be shared with employers and peers to present artifacts that demonstrate your accomplishments at Capella.
Professional Context
As a baccalaureate-prepared nurse, you will be responsible for providing patient-centered, competent care based on current evidence-based best practices. You will be required to do research, analysis, and dissemination of best evidence to stay abreast of these best practices. Understanding where to go to find credible sources and locate evidence, as well as which search terms to use, is the foundation of incorporation of best practices.
Scenario
Describe how you would communicate with this nurse to encourage him or her to research the diagnosis. Assume you will assist in the quest to locate evidence, then describe where you would go within the facility and what resources you would look for. These resources may include websites, journals, facility policies or guidelines, or any other sources of online information.
To select the diagnosis for the patient in this scenario, review the three diagnoses presented in the Assessment 01 Supplement: Locating Credible Databases and Research [PDF] resource and select one. You will use this same diagnosis to complete the next two assessments.
Create a list of at least five sources that could be used to find evidence, with the best source listed first, and explain why the sources you chose are best to find evidence for the diagnosis you chose and the clinical scenario. You are only evaluating the sources of evidence (database, website, policy database or website, journal article, et cetera). You are not actually completing a search and selecting evidence.
Locating Credible Databases and Research
To help ensure you are prepared to complete this assessment, review the following resources related to the Capella library. These resources will provide you an overview of the types of tools, resources, and guides available in the library. This may be useful in forming a better understanding of the library to apply to the hypothetical situation laid out in the scenario of this assessment.
- BSN Program Library Research Guide.
- Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing & Health Sciences.
- Databases A-Z: Nursing & Health Sciences.
- Get Critical Search Skills.
Remember, it is also appropriate to look toward databases and resources outside of the Capella library, such as organizational policies, professional organizations, and government health care resources.
You are encouraged to complete the Evaluating the Credibility of Evidence activity. This activity offers an opportunity to practice evaluating the credibility of evidence. These skills will be necessary to complete Assessment 1 successfully and is for your own practice and self-assessment. Completing this activity is also a way to demonstrate course engagement.
Instructions
The purpose of this assessment is to understand where to find evidence that can be applied to clinical scenarios and to learn effective communication and collaboration with clinical staff during the process of evidence location. As a baccalaureate-prepared nurse, you will not only use research for self-improvement in your clinical role, but you will also serve as a mentor to supervised nursing staff.
Therefore, you will need to be able to communicate and collaborate effectively to guide them toward resources to find research, as well as support them through the initial evidence location process. In doing so, nurses can gain access to evidence that can be analyzed and utilized to stay current on best practices. This allows them to provide safe, patient-centered care and improve patient outcomes.
For this assessment:
- Describe your role as a baccalaureate-prepared nurse
supervising clinical staff nurses with regard to communication and collaboration in locating evidence for application to a nursing practice scenario. - Compile a list of five online databases or other online sources (that is, websites, journals, facility policies or guidelines, et cetera) that can be used to research evidence to apply to the diagnosis in this scenario and describe to which of these you would direct a nurse colleague to search for evidence.
- Describe where you might go in the work place to complete this research and how you would access the desired, relevant research within research databases or other online sources.
Be sure to address the following in this assessment, which correspond to the grading criteria in the scoring guide. Please study the scoring guide carefully so that you will know what is needed for a distinguished score.
- Describe communication strategies to encourage nurses to research the diagnosis/practice issue, as well as strategies to collaborate with the nurses to access resources.
- Describe the best places to complete research and what types of resources you would want to access to find pertinent information for the diagnosis/health care issue within the context of a specific health care setting.
- Identify five sources of online information (medical journal databases, websites, hospital policy databases, et cetera) that could be used to locate evidence for a clinical diagnosis/practice issue.
- Explain why the sources of online information selected should provide the best evidence for the chosen diagnosis/health care issue.
- Communicate using writing that is clear, logical, and professional with correct grammar and spelling using current APA style.
Note: While you are not selecting and evaluating specific evidence to help with the clinical diagnosis/practice issue, you should still be citing the literature and best practices to support your description of your communication and collaboration approach. Additionally, it is appropriate to cite best practices related to EBP and evaluating databases to support your explanation as to why you selected the five sources of online information that you did.
Example Assessment: You may use the following to give you an idea of what a Proficient or higher rating on the scoring guide would look like:
- Assessment 1 Example [PDF]
Additional Requirements
Your assessment should meet the following requirements:
- Length of submission: 2-4 pages (not including the title page or the reference page) description of communication, collaboration, and evidence location process, including a list of databases or other sources with description of why they are appropriate for clinical scenario diagnosis/health care issue (that is, something that would be useable in professional practice for other nurses). Be sure to include an APA-formatted reference page at the end of your submission.
- Number of references: Cite a minimum of three sources of scholarly or professional evidence that supports your findings and considerations. Resources should be no more than five years old.
- APA formatting: References and citations are formatted according to current APA style.
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