When to Use Textbooks
As you approach your research question, you will first want to determine which types of sources to consult. Remember consulting textbooks (both in print and electronic formats), journal literature, information from the Internet and experts are all viable options.
Text books are most appropriate for:
Generic, broad-based, background-oriented questions
- Example: How does Warfarin work?
Consult: Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics - Example: How is a ruptured spleen treated?
Consult: Disorders of the Spleen - Example: How do you diagnose an ectopic pregnancy?
Consult: Current Diagnosis & Treatment Obstetrics & Gynecology - Example: What causes varicose veins?
Consult: Vein Diagnosis and Treatment
Definition questions
- Example: What is atrial fibrillation?
Consult: Mayo Clinic Cardiology Review - Example: Define insulin resistance.
Consult: Greenspan's Basic and Clinical Endocrinology
