Developing a Literature Review for a DNP Nursing Capstone Project

A literature review for a DNP Nursing Capstone Project is an essential step to ensure that your project is grounded in the existing body of knowledge. It helps justify the need for your project, guides your methodology, and ensures that your interventions are evidence-based.

2.1 Identify Relevant Topics and Research Questions

The first step in developing a literature review is identifying the key topics or research questions related to your capstone project. These could include patient care practices, clinical interventions, leadership strategies, or healthcare policy. Focus on areas where there is a gap in practice or where existing evidence could support your project’s intervention.

2.2 Search for Relevant Literature

Search for studies, systematic reviews, clinical guidelines, and meta-analyses from reputable databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, Google Scholar, or Cochrane Library. Use keywords related to your project to locate relevant articles. Make sure to include studies from the last 5-10 years to ensure that the evidence is current.

2.3 Organize the Literature

Group the literature based on themes, such as:

• Theoretical frameworks: How existing theories have shaped interventions in similar contexts.
• Interventions: Different approaches used to address the problem you are working on.
• Outcomes: What outcomes have been measured in previous studies, and what were the results?

This structure helps you synthesize the literature and present it in a way that supports your methodology and design.

2.4 Critically Analyze the Literature

A critical analysis goes beyond summarizing the articles. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each study, considering aspects like sample size, study design, methodology, and relevance to your project. Identify any gaps in research that your project might address.

2.5 Synthesize Findings and Identify Gaps

Synthesize the findings from the literature and highlight any areas where your project can add value. For example, if a significant gap exists in the implementation of a particular intervention or in a specific population, your capstone project can help fill this gap.

2.6 Cite and Integrate Evidence

Be sure to cite all sources properly, using the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA). Integrating evidence-based findings strengthens your project and shows that your approach is grounded in research.