Guide to Patient and Family Engagement

Peer-Reviewed Literature

1. Search databases using identified keyword search terms.
2. Review abstract to determine whether the article is relevant.
3. Retrieve full text for those articles identified as relevant.
4. Review article in its entirety for specific information according to the abstraction form.
5. Conduct an Internet scan or contact authors for any missing information or tools/training materials used.
6. Review citation list for relevant articles.

Grey Literature

1. Collect literature and other information from project team members and key informant interviews.
2. Search Web sites of organizations identified by partners for research, resources, and tools relevant to patient and family engagement in patient safety and quality.
3. Search databases that target trade publications—such as Health Business (for hospital administrators) and PAIS (social sciences)—using keyword search terms.
4. Search databases, such as HSRProj Database or Dissertation Abstract, for unpublished literature and dissertations.
5. Determine whether the literature or Web site is relevant. Note the source of the grey literature, specifically who is publishing the information and who is the target audience.
6. Review article in its entirety for specific information according to the abstraction form.
7. Contact authors for any missing information or tools/training materials used.
8. Review citation list for relevant articles.

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AHRQ Publication No. 12-0042-EF