Using Boolean Logic to Combine MeSH Terms in PubMed

Presenter: Michelle Swab, Health Sciences Library

Overview

• Demonstration of using Boolean logic to combine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms in PubMed.

Accessing Search History

• Go to PubMed and click on Advance to access the search history.
• Search history is retained for up to 24 hours.

Combining Synonymous or Related Terms

• Use OR to combine synonymous or related terms.
  • Example:
    • Number 18: nurses
    • Number 22: nursing
    • Number 24: nurses role
• Add combined terms to search history.
• Note: The number of items found will increase.

Combining Main Concepts

• Use AND to combine main concepts.
  • Example:
    • Number 15 AND Number 28 (which combines 18 OR 22 OR 24)
• This step significantly reduces the number of retrieved items.
• Example: Reduced to 92 items.

Applying Filters

• To focus on specific demographics, apply filters:
  • Age Filter: Click on ages, select "Age 65+" to refine the search.
    • Example: Reduced from 92 items to 73 items.
  • Language Filter: Can filter results to articles in English.
    • Example: Further reduced to 65 items.

Additional Notes

• Filters and Boolean logic are essential tools for refining search results in PubMed.
• Utilize the left panel to access and apply additional filters for more precise results.