Write a literature review on the Topic: The use of acupuncture for pain relief in labour (childbirth) in a word limit of around 18 pages (4,500 words) by using the Harvard style of writing.
Details:
Please use between 4-6 pieces of literature to review. Please include a plan and an appendices with bibliography and references.
Instruction will be expected to critically review a wide range of literature to support their arguments, including the analysis of recent reports and their implications for improving midwifery practice. Conclusions drawn should summarise the evidence reviewed, leading logically to recommendations for individual and professional practice. (4,500 words)
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!!
350-500 words
Contents page:
- Chapters
- Sub-headings
- Appendices
- References
- Bibliography
Not in word count
Introduction and background:
- Reasons for your choice of topic including an overview of the main drivers – political, social, recent research etc.
- What is the current situation?
- Why does this topic warrant investigating?
- Some reference to the literature is expected
750- 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.
400-500 words
Critical Literature review:
- Critically review the literature related to your topic to evidence base for Midwifery practice
- Identify the key articles which underpin your proposal. These should be critically analysed in depth. Compare and contrast these key articles with the wider body of literature.
- Evaluate evidence from the literature in relation to local policies and practice as well as in relation to national/government policies and guidelines
- Present a clearly set out picture of the conclusions which you draw from your literature review – conclusions should summarise the evidence reviewed, leading logically to recommendations for individual and professional practice
- Make it quite clear whether you are proposing a change to practice or concluding that practice is indeed evidence-based and should not change.
- If proposing a change, you should outline how this could be implemented in practice. You do not need to explore change management in any depth or detail.
- Illustrations, graphs, plans, tools etc. may be included – can go in an appendix
2000-2500 words
Summary:
- 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 research
400-500 words
Reference list
Bibliography
Appendices