NR 439 Week 4 Discussion: Designs

Student Name

Chamberlain University

NR-439: RN Evidence-Based Practice

Prof. Name:

Date

Week 4: Designs: A Plan to Study for the Truth

This week’s graded topics relate to the following Course Outcomes (COs):

CO 2: Apply research principles to the interpretation of the content of published research studies. (POs 4 & 8)
CO 4: Evaluate published nursing research for credibility and significance related to evidence-based practice. (POs 4 & 8)

Key Learnings

In Week 4, we explored the differences between research designs and how they are critical in objectively studying nursing problems. The primary challenge lies in selecting the appropriate research type and design to address the specific research question. By understanding these designs, nurses can apply evidence-based practices effectively in clinical settings. Quantitative and qualitative research designs each have unique characteristics that serve different purposes in nursing research.

Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research

Quantitative research is grounded in measurable, numerical data, making it possible to analyze and compare results objectively. It relies on facts, statistics, and figures to determine outcomes. As Houser (2018) notes, the nature of nursing care involves supporting individuals in achieving their health goals, which are often defined by the patients themselves rather than the nurses. This type of research is unbiased and not influenced by personal opinions or experiences.

In contrast, qualitative research focuses on the interpretation of experiences, relationships, and meanings. It does not aim for measurable outcomes and considers bias as an inherent part of the research process. As Houser (2018) explains, in qualitative research, the researcher often establishes a relationship with the subject, which can influence the findings. This approach is more subjective, with an emphasis on understanding individual experiences.

Interesting Study Design: Quasi-Experimental Research

One design that piqued my interest is quasi-experimental research. This design allows researchers to study interventions in real-world settings, which is particularly useful in nursing. It allows researchers to test different interventions on patients directly, such as comparing oral pain medications with alternative treatments like musical and art therapy, hot or cold compresses, or massages. This hands-on approach provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of non-pharmacological treatments before resorting to traditional interventions like pain medication.

Article Review: Prospective Cohort Study

For the Week 3 Assignment, I located an article that used a prospective cohort study design. This research design requires the researcher to plan the study in advance and track the subjects over a specified period. The study also included a control group for comparison. In relation to my PICOT question—In adult surgical patients, what are the effects of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) baths or wipes pre-op compared to not using CHG baths or wipes pre-op on surgical site infections within 30 days post-op?—the study provided significant evidence supporting the use of CHG. Graling and Vasaly (2013) reported that the group using CHG cloth baths showed a statistically significant reduction in infections post-surgery.

The research design supported the purpose of the study by providing unbiased and measurable outcomes that could be used to improve patient care and reduce the risk of surgical site infections.

References

Graling, P. R., & Vasaly, F. W. (2013). Effectiveness of 2% CHG cloth bathing for reducing surgical site infections. AORN Journal, 97(5), 547–551. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aorn.2013.02.009