Research Guides: Library Tutorials : Cochrane Library

What is Cochrane Library?

Cochrane Library
A collection of three databases that contain high-quality, independent evidence to inform healthcare decision-making. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) includes full text PDFs of both complete reviews and protocols. The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) includes randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials. Cochrane Clinical Answers (CCAs) provide digestible and clinically-focused entry points to rigorous research from Cochrane Reviews to inform point-of-care decision making.

The Cochrane Library is most useful for:

High quality systematic reviews
Randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials
Clinically relevant information to guide evidence-based decision making

Getting Started with Cochrane Library

Browse and Basic Search

Advanced Search

Click Advanced Search for more options:

In the Search option, you can add multiple search boxes to create more sophisticated searches. The Search Manager tab allows you to copy a systematic search into the search box. Search for MeSH terms, or search by PICO elements. You'll most likely use the Search and PICO options most:

Search Results

The search results allow you to choose by study type: systematic reviews, systematic review protocols, trials, and editorials. You can also use the filters on the left side of the screen to narrow your results.

Obtain Full Text

To obtain the full text, click on the title of an article. For Cochrane Reviews, a PDF is always provided.

For trials, a link is provided. If you're on campus, you may be able to access the full text via this link if the library has access to that journal.

For more seamless off campus access, we recommend reviewing our information on Finding Full Text.