Even though these use a large and rapidly increasing number of sources for 'good quality' evidence, one is still aware of the lack of knowledge and understanding of such services amongst health care practitioners. It was decided, therefore, commencing with this issue, to include useful information related to sources of evidence, and to continue to print new sources in forthcoming issues as they come to our attention. Future issues will also include short articles on the basics of reviewing literature. Any constructive criticism will also be appreciated. This article will inform you of the different sources of information that you can use to find the evidence to support your clinical practice.
Journals are also a means of communicating results to a wider audience.
Health Libraries subscribe to a wide range of journals related to health and medicine, and as health professionals you need to be aware of the general journals on clinical effectiveness, as well as the core journals in your speciality. Journals can be classed into two types - Primary and Secondary . Primary Journals contain original articles - research, editorial, letters, case and descriptive studies. It summarises reviews and reports on clinical effectiveness including new tests, operations or drugs. They are interested to hear from other regions about trials that are being carried out.