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Nursing

Research Guide for Nursing

Journal Types

Article Type Quick Description Why Nursing Students Use It
Systematic Review Summarizes results of multiple studies on a topic using strict criteria. Used to find high-quality, evidence-based summaries for practice decisions.
Meta-Analysis Combines statistical data from multiple studies to draw a more powerful conclusion. Helps evaluate treatment effectiveness or risks across populations.
Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) Experimental study with random group assignment to test an intervention. Key for clinical practice—used to judge treatment efficacy.
Cohort Study Observes a group over time to track outcomes based on exposure factors. Useful for understanding disease risk and patient outcomes.
Case-Control Study Compares individuals with a condition to those without it to find risk factors. Good for research on rare diseases or outcomes.
Cross-Sectional Study Snapshot of a population’s health or behavior at one time. Frequently used in public health and patient education topics.
Case Report / Case Series Describes one (or a few) unique patient cases. Helpful for learning about rare conditions or unusual presentations.
Clinical Practice Guidelines Evidence-based recommendations from expert panels. Directly tied to clinical decision-making and standard of care.
Quality Improvement (QI) Article Documents strategies used to improve care or workflow in clinical settings. Common in nursing practice, especially in hospital settings.
Literature Review Summarizes existing research on a topic (not as strict as a systematic review). Helpful for assignments or background on a clinical topic.
Editorial or Commentary Opinion-based reflection or analysis of current trends or studies. Provides insight into ethical or emerging practice issues.