Integrative review: what is it? How to do it?

ABSTRACT

Introduction:  The integrative review is the methodology that provides synthesis of knowledge and applicability of results of significant studies to practice.

Objective:  To present the phases of an integrative review and the relevant aspects to be taken into account when using this methodological resource.

Methods:  This study was based on bibliographic search and on the experience of the authors when performing an integrative review.

Results:  Presentation of the six stages of the integrative review process: preparing the guiding question, searching or sampling the literature, data collection, critical analysis of the studies included, discussion of results and presentation of the integrative review.

Conclusions:  Considering the need to assure care based on scientific evidence, the integrative review has been identified as a unique tool in healthcare for it synthesizes investigations available on the given topic and guides practice based on scientific knowledge.

Keywords: Literature review as topic; Methodology; Nursing methodology research; Evidence-based nursing