Nursing

Almost everyone has found bad information on the Internet at some point -- even if you didn't know it at the time. Because anyone can publish online, it's important to evaluate your sources before using them in an academic paper.

Found a website you want to use as a resource but aren't sure it's reliable? Use these criteria:

• Currency: The time the item was written. Is the information still true? Does your topic need only the most up-to-date information or would something a few years old be acceptable?
• Accuracy: The absence of errors and use of reliable information. Is the information correct? Does the source make claims you can prove? Are there any spelling or grammatical errors?

• Authority: The qualifications of the writer. What makes him/her an expert on the topic? This can apply to both a person and an organization.

• Objectivity: The reason or reasons the item was written. To inform you about the issue? To persuade you to buy something? To entertain?

• Coverage: The information provided by the item. Does this source answer the questions I have? Does it contribute new or different information to my research paper? Does the item present just one side of an issue or a very small piece of a larger picture?

Still aren't sure a source is reliable? Ask a librarian. We can help you evaluate a website or point you toward another credible source if necessary.

There is a national organization out there to serve just about every nursing specialty, from midwifery to palliative care. Check out the following sites to find out more about these and other nursing skill areas.