The peer review process: an integrative review of the literature

Objective: To evaluate the available evidence in the literature about the process of peer review for scientific articles in the area of health. Methods: An integrative review of the literature, which was conducted using searches of databases of Latin American Literature and of the Caribbean Health Sciences, National Library of Medicine, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. A total of 12 studies was analyzed. Results: It was shown that many criticisms of the process exist because of its subjectivity, but that it is still believed there is a need for it. Conclusion: This process is essential for the diffusion of knowledge, as an essential step in the judgment of scientific manuscripts; however, it is important to consider changes to reduce subjectivity to ensure credibility of the process.