Reviewing the LiteratureIn research reports, investigators need to position their studies within the larger body of literature on the specific topic of interest. The purpose of a literature review is to describe the present state of the science, emphasizing the gaps that exist in order to justify the need for the study that was conducted.
Connelly, L. M. (2010). Reviewing the literature. Medsurg Nursing: Official Journal Of The Academy Of Medical-Surgical Nurses, 19(4), 245-246.