Research databases are organized collections of scholarly sources such as journal articles, conference papers, and dissertations, designed to help users find credible and peer-reviewed information. Selecting multiple relevant databases is best practice for a comprehensive search, as different databases index unique sources and subject areas.
What databases are available?
The image shows the main research databases available through Monash Health Library. Each database includes content that is unique that database, but content may overlap between multiple databases. Access these databases and more in the databases and apps page. Monash Health does not have access to CINAHL, Emcare is an allied health a nursing specific database that is available. CINAHL may be accessible to Monash University staff and students.
If you are not sure about which databases are right for your research, request research support from the library and we will go through your options and help you make an informed decision.
You can note down which databases you intend to search in the Library's worksheet.
Choosing the best databases for your research is essential to ensure you access the most relevant and comprehensive information for your topic. It also allows you to focus your efforts on sources that are more likely to include the research you need, rather than spending time on databases that may not cover your subject area.
Why is choosing the right database important?
The most appropriate database(s) for your search depends primarily on your research question, and to some extent your discipline.
To help you choose one or more databases for your search, consult our 1-page overview of health databases, or browse our full list of literature searching databases.
Literature Searching Databases
Ovid databases at Monash Health
Ovid is a powerful search platform that is used to build and run literature searches across a range of databases. At Monash Health, the following databases open in the Ovid search platform:
Visit the MEDLINE User Guide for a quick overview of basic Ovid features.
PubMed vs. MEDLINE
It is important to be aware that content in PubMed includes papers that have not completed the peer review process.
We strongly recommend using MEDLINE rather than PubMed for these reasons:
Example