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 110KB)
This resource includes details of books, e-books, theses and DVDs held by the RCN libraries. This guide provides an introduction. - CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature):
EBSCO CINAHL Pocket Guide (PDF 889KB)
EBSCO online tutorials - CINAHL support center - MEDLINE (database of the US National Library of Medicine) and Maternity and Infant Care.
OvidSP Quick Reference card (PDF 1MB)
Ovid online tutorial: OvidSP Advanced Search Overview - Cochrane Library
High quality, independent evidence to inform health care decision-making.
Wiley-Blackwell: The Cochrane Library Quick Reference Guide (PDF 5.4MB)
Wiley-Blackwell online tutorial: The Cochrane Library part 1 (free registration with Wiley-Blackwell is required to view this tutorial)