An integrative literature review (sometimes called an IR or a Systematic Integrative Review) is:
A method that summarizes past empirical or theoretical literature to provide a more comprehensive understanding of a particular phenomenon or healthcare problem.
In the same way as a systematic literature review does, the write up of the integrative review literature search needs to explicitly state the search terms and databases used, as well as the criteria used for including and excluding sources. The University of Waikato’s Library Search is great for getting a sense of the literature, but it is a search engine, not an individual database. When conducting the definitive searches, you need to go to individual databases.
Helpful Reads
A Step-By-Step Guide to Conducting an Integrative Review by ISBN: 9783030375034Publication Date: 2020This book provides guidance to readers for how to conduct an integrative review. It examines components necessary to conduct a rigorous integrative review from formulating questions through dissemination of the results of the review. Each chapter focuses on one component or step in this process and is written in a straightforward and readable manner.
- The Integrative Review: Updated MethodologyA paper which distinguishes the integrative review method from other review methods and aims to propose methodological strategies specific to the integrative review method to enhance the rigour of the process.
- Model Courage in Nursing: An Integrative Literature ReviewAn example of an integrative review in a peer-reviewed journal.
- Systematic vs. Scoping vs. Integrative ReviewThis guide briefly compares each type of review and so you can determine which type of review is best for your needs.