literature review

Approximate word count included beneath each sectionApproximate word count included beneath each section
Abstract  No more than 1 side of A4 To include: aims, reason for choice of topic, method of lit search, critical review of the literature chosen and implications for practice Leave this until last!!300-500 wordsContents page  Chapters Sub-headings Appendices References Bibliography (if used)Not in word countIntroduction and background  Reasons for your choice of topic including an overview of the main drivers for change– political, social, recent research etc. What is the current situation? Do you suspect there is a problem? Why? Some reference to the literature is expected750- 1,000 words
Method of literature search Overview of databases used, search terms, “hits”, revised search terms, number of sources finally chosen. A table in your appendix may summarise this neatly. Sources of books and journals (no need to list them here!) Other sources e.g. verbal, local Trust policies, professional guidelines, Government documents etc.500 wordsCritical Literature review Critically review the literature related to your topic to evidence base for Midwifery practice Sources included in your reviewshould be critically and comparatively analysed in depth, identifying and discussing the emergent themes Evaluate evidence from the lit in relation to your local policies and practice as well as in relation to government policies Present a clearly set out picture of the conclusions drawn for practice – does practice need to change on your site or have you concluded that practice is indeed evidence based?  Make it quite clear what you are proposing and how this will be implemented in practice Illustrations, graphs, plans, tools etc. may be included – may go in appendix2000-2500 wordsSummary Summarise the literature review, identifying clearly what the issue was that led you to search the evidence and how you went about it. Identify the main areas of practice that you have explored and summarise your literature review, bringing together the various aspects to give a clear picture as to how practice should now proceed Identify any limitations of your search / review and how these might be addressed especially highlighting any gaps in the current available evidence that may require further research500-750 words
 Reference list Bibliography AppendicesNot in word count