Truncation is a searching shortcut represented by an asterisk (*). It tells the database to find all possible endings of a word. This trick is very useful if you have many similar sounding keywords.
For example, child* will find child, children, childbearing or childlike.
However, you need to be careful where you place the *. If you truncate a term too early, you may also be including many irrelevant terms. Have a look at our example below:
Truncation is a powerful way to improve your search and to ensure your search is working efficiently and effectively. The search example below illustrates how truncation can be used.
Repositioning regimens to prevent pressure injuries in adults
The synonym table for this question is as follows:
| Problem | Intervention | Comparison | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure Injuries | Repositioning | Not used | Not used |
| Pressure sore* | position* | ||
| Pressure ulcer* | reposition* | ||
| Bed sore* | re-position* | ||
| decubitus sore* | turning | ||
| decubutus ulcer* | tilting |
See the full search with accompanying syntax here.