CINAHL's search limiters restrict the number of results so they focus on specific patient populations and literature types.
CINAHL's limiters can be applied either before or after performing the search.
In the default page, select Advanced Search.
You'll find the limiters under the Advanced Search Bar.
After performing a search, select limiters from the left side of the screen in the "Refine Results" section.
Publication Date
Publication Date retrieves articles that were published during the years you specify. It especially helps when you want the most recent literature available.
Language
When applying limiters before searching, select "English Only," to show only articles written in English. Or, if interested in non-English languages, choose from the language filter.
Before searching:
Or after searching:
Patient Populations
Sex and Age Groups limit the research to patient populations according to their sex and age.
CINAHL automatically applies "expanders," including one which makes your search find matches throughout a full text. Turn OFF these filters to narrow results and only match terms in significant places.
Do not use Linked Full Text Limit. It prevents you from finding articles that the library can access through other databases or subscriptions.
Note, there are many limiters that we haven't covered. Other important ones include Peer-reviewed and Evidence-based Practice. Try them and other settings to see how they impact your search results.
Watch the video tutorial on CINAHL's basic features:
