e-library guides
Guides and online tutorials
Use the guides below to learn about using the RCN e-library. The databases themselves can be found on the databases to search page. Some files on this page are in PDF format. See how to access PDF files.
- RCN Learning Zone: Using your RCN e-library: step by step guides
Step-by-step guides to literature searching using the RCN e-library. - Brief guide to searching the British Nursing Index (PDF 95KB)
This database includes details of articles from all the major British nursing and midwifery journals. This guide provides an introduction. - Guide to the RCN Library Catalogue (PDF 203KB)
This resource includes details of books, e-books, theses and DVDs held by the RCN libraries. This guide provides an introduction. - Guide to using the CINAHL database (PDF 351KB)
This guide provides an introduction to searching CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature). It may also be used with the AMED and Medline databases. - Maternity and Infant Care, HMIC and Social Policy and Practice.
For guidance on searching these databases use the following resources:
OvidSP Quick Reference card (PDF 1MB)
Ovid online tutorial: OvidSP Advanced Search Overview - Cochrane Library
This resource provides high quality, independent evidence to inform health care decision-making.
Wiley-Blackwell: how to use the Cochrane Library