Page 25 - APPENDIX B: Trials Investigating the Management of Acute Radiation-Induced Skin Reactions Reading Qualitative Research

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WOUND CARE

Chapter Two: Literature Review

Introduction

The primary purpose of the literature review (Phase 1) is to answer the research question,

recognize gaps in the literature relating to the problem, suggest how the gaps might be filled and

identify appropriate methods of data collection (Burns & Grove, 1997; Coughlan, Cronin, &

Ryan, 2007). The literature review for this project primarily examined the existing evidence

regarding radiating through dressings. The study design, methodology, measurable outcomes,

data collection instruments, and data analysis plans for each of the studies were critically

examined in order to inform this research project. However, due to limited research in the area

of interest, additional materials were included in order to contextualize the subject. It is

noteworthy that there continues to be a paucity of well-designed studies evaluating the

effectiveness of interventions for the prevention and management of radiodermatitis

(McQuestion, 2011).

Search and Retrieval Strategy for Review of Published and Grey Literature

Scholarly articles and grey literature were retrieved through computer assisted advanced

searches of Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), eBook

Academic collection, MEDLINE, E-Journals, Cochrane library, PUBMED, Advanced Google

search (domain .au &.ca), Google, Cancer literature, Biomedical Reference Collection and ERIC

databases. The scoping literature review focused primarily on studies dealing with wound

dressings during radiotherapy. However, due to the nature of the clinical question, some work in

the area of skin care investigations and protocols were also considered. Further, review of the

bibliographies of relevant studies led to the acquisition of a few more applicable studies.