The integrative literature review as a research method: A demonstration review of research on neurodevelopmental supportive care in preterm infants

Abstract

An Integrative Literature Review (ILR) allows researchers to go beyond an analysis and synthesis of primary research findings and provides new insights and summarised knowledge about a specific topic. Although an ILR aims to follow similar approaches to that of a systematic review, it allows for the inclusion of both primary research studies, along with other documents (including opinions, discussion papers and policy documents), which are not included in a formal systematic review. The purpose of this paper is to equip the reader with a simplistic 5 step process on how to conduct an ILR. The researchers present these 5 steps in relation to the generic primary research process. This paper further discusses how an ILR was applied to this demonstration review aimed to identify components of neurodevelopmental supportive care (NDSC) in preterm infants. This information could be valuable for researchers, academics and clinicians when planning to conduct an ILR.