What is the purpose of a literature review in healthcare research?

The purpose of a literature review in healthcare research is to summarize and evaluate existing research, which helps in identifying gaps in knowledge and informs future studies. This process involves a comprehensive examination of current literature related to a specific research question or area of interest. By synthesizing previous findings, researchers can determine what has already been discovered, which approaches have been effective, and where there may still be unanswered questions or insufficient research. This identification of gaps is crucial, as it guides the direction for future research endeavors, ensuring that they are relevant and contribute meaningfully to the field.

While conducting new experiments based on previous findings can arise from the insights gained in a literature review, the review itself primarily focuses on consolidating and evaluating existing knowledge rather than generating new experimental data directly. Similar reasoning applies to the other options, as they pertain to specific functions or uses of research that do not capture the overall goal of a literature review in healthcare research. Thus, the correct purpose underscores the importance of establishing a foundational understanding before advancing further studies.