Exploring Research Methodologies: An Essay on Evidence-Based Practice

This essay provides an overview of qualitative and quantitative research methods in the context of evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing. It defines EBP and highlights its importance in informed decision-making for nurses. The essay details the characteristics of both qualitative and quantitative research, including their respective data collection methods and analytical approaches. It further discusses various study designs used in EBP, such as meta-analysis, systematic reviews, case-control studies, cross-sectional studies, and case reports. The distinctions between qualitative and quantitative methods are explored, focusing on data types, analysis techniques, and generalizability. The essay also identifies similarities between the two approaches, emphasizing the need for data analysis and the potential for mixed-methods research. Finally, it underscores the importance of both research methods in enhancing patient care and improving outcomes within the healthcare setting. This document is a valuable resource for students seeking to understand the application of research methodologies in nursing practice. Desklib offers a wide range of study tools, including past papers and solved assignments, to support student learning.

Evidence-Based Practice

Contents
INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................................................3
MAIN BODY.............................................................................................................................................3
Overview of the two methods..................................................................................................................3
Different types of study designs..............................................................................................................4
Differences of the two methods...............................................................................................................5
Similarities of the two methods...............................................................................................................6
Importance of the research methods in terms of Evidence-based practice...............................................7
CONCLUSION........................................................................................................................................10
REFERENCES........................................................................................................................................11

INTRODUCTION
Evidence-based practice in nursing is defined as a kind of practice that helps nurses in a
healthcare setting to evaluate the findings of the research and hence, understand the risks that are
associated with the effectiveness of the treatments or diagnostic tests. Evidence-based practice is
important for the overall health care setting is because it helps the nurses in various departments
to make effective as well as informed decisions (Gnass and et.al., 2021). This is due to the fact
through evidence-based totally practice, nurses can stay up to date about new clinical protocols
associated with patient care. It guarantees that the nurses are able to examine the modern-day
situation of the sufferers and make informed decisions approximately the identical. Qualitative
and quantitative are the two sorts of research methods which might be critical in evidence-based
nursing. The respective record will offer an outline of the 2 techniques, describe the unique
forms of study designs and the differences between those strategies. Apart from this, the
significance of these research methods in terms of EBP is also protected inside the document.
MAIN BODY
Overview of the two methods
Quantitative as well as qualitative are the two types of research methods that are used in
evidence-based practice and are used by nurses to guide various nursing interventions and
improve patient care. Quantitative research method in evidence-based nursing provides
knowledge that is necessary for practice, whereas qualitative evidence supports the personal as
well as experiential knowledge that is critical for practice. Apart from this, qualitative research
method presents the findings through participants’ stories as well as words (Lee, 2020).
Quantitative research methods consist of many different components like systems, best practices,
observations that are put together in order to establish a useful resource. The knowledge which is
gained through qualitative research methods is helps the nurses in gaining a new perspective
about patient care and thus, facilitate a proper care action for them. Quantitative research
methods can include questionnaires, observation, self-reporting tools etc. Nurses generally use
qualitative research methods and this is because its methods as well as findings are related with
the art of nursing practice, wherein the individual patients matter. It is important to choose the
best research method so as to ensure that the overall care provided to the patients is effective and

that they receive proper care. In qualitative research methods, the nurse collects data in order to
learn about the condition of the patients in an effective manner.
On the other hand, quantitative research method in evidence-based nursing and it can be
said that evidence-based practice in nursing comprises of patient values and preferences. It can
be said that quantitative research methods are usually used in health as well as social care
research. This is important and can help in providing patient care that is of the highest quality as
well as cost efficient. Research can either be quantitative or qualitative or a combination of both.
Qualitative research uses different words in order to describe behavior of the human beings.
Quantitative research methods focus on the numerical analysis if data that is collected through
polls (Lee and et.al., 2020). Evidence based practice is an important aspect in nursing and helps
the nurses to evaluate the overall effectiveness of the research as well as treatments. In other
words, it can be said that evidence-based practice utilizes the research that is available and can
be used for improving the health of the patients in an effective manner. Nurses use quantitative
as well as qualitative research methods in order to evaluate as well as guide the different nursing
interventions as well as improve the overall way in which patients are provided care within a
healthcare setting. Quantitative research method in nursing helps in generating effective
numerical data.
Different types of study designs
A study design can be defined as a process wherein the trial methodology is organized in
an effective manner. Research design contains an crucial have an effect on at the reliability of the
effects attained. It therefore gives a robust base for the whole research. It is wanted because of
the fact that it lets in for the easy working of the numerous studies operations. This makes the
studies as effective as viable by using using imparting most statistics with minimum spending of
strive, money and time (Magee, Bramble and Stanley, 2020). Research design is needed as it
allows the clean crusing of the various research operations, thereby making studies as green as
feasible yielding maximal facts with minimal expenditure of strive, money and time. Research
layout has a big effect on the reliability of the results obtained. It therefore acts as a company
foundation for the whole research. There are distinctive types of observe designs that may be
implemented in proof-primarily based practice as a way to achieve beneficial consequences. The
different types of study designs are explained below –

Meta-Analysis – This is one of the study designs that can be used in evidence-based
practice and involves combining data from different research studies. A meta-analysis can be
defined as a process that involves combining the findings from various individual studies.
Systematic Review – A systematic review can be defined as a critical assessment as well
as evaluation of all research studies that addresses a particular clinical issue. an organized
method of evaluating all the different research studies using a set of specific criteria in an
effective manner.
Case-Control Study – This is another type of study design that begin with the outcomes
and thus, do not follow people overtime (Melander and et.al., 2020). The researchers choose
people with a particular result and gather information with the help of interviews.
Cross-Sectional Study – The observation of a defined population at a single point of
time or time interval. This is a type of study design wherein the researcher analyzes the outcomes
at a specific point of time.
Case Reports – Case reports can be used to serve various purposes because they offer
the readers a recognition patten in order identify similar rare cases in their own practices. It can
be said that case reports are important because they represent the relevant, timely as well as an
important study design in enhancing the medical knowledge primarily for rare diseases.
Thus, it can be said that a study design is important because it helps in carrying out the
study in an effective manner (Mitchell, Rekiere and Grassley, 2020). The process of planning an
effective study design involves selecting an appropriate outcome measure as well as choosing an
appropriate design that can help in completing the study in an effective manner.
Differences of the two methods
As already mentioned, qualitative as well as quantitative are the two types of research
methods that can be used in evidence-based practice in the nursing field. Quantitative research
methods involve the various ways in which data is collected and presented in the form of
numbers, tables as well as graphs. It can be said that quantitative research methods focus on the
numerical analysis of the data which is gathered through different ways in which questionnaires,
polls as well as surveys. Quantitative research methods are among the most widely used research
methods that help in enhancing the overall quality of the research in an effective manner. the

different types of quantitative research methods include survey research, cross-sectional surveys,
longitudinal surveys as well as correlational research. This is because the results or findings of
the data that is gathered from the respondents can be represented in the form of tables, charts as
well as graphs. Quantitative research methods can be used for different types of research such as
descriptive research, correlational research as well as experimental research in an effective
manner in order to obtain valid as well as reliable results (Quantitative Research: Definition,
Methods, Types and Examples, 2021). The primary goal of the quantitative research methods is
to collect numerical data from a group of people and then analyze the same to obtain results for a
large group of people.
Qualitative research can be referred to as the process of acquiring data by studying the
different subjects and the primary focus is on developing an understanding about the underlying
reason for a particular problem (Obeidat and Al-Delaimy, 2020). It can be said that qualitative
studies is subjective in nature and there are different qualitative research techniques that may be
used primarily based at the requirement of the examine. Observations, textual and visual analysis
as well as interviews are a few examples of the extraordinary qualitative research methods that
may be used by the researcher with a view to beautify the satisfactory of the studies. Qualitative
research techniques are greater textual content primarily based which isn't the case in
quantitative studies methods as it's far quantity based. The responses which might be obtained
from qualitative research strategies, can be unstructured or semi based. In order to analyze the
information this is amassed involves the used of statistical evaluation whereas for qualitative
research methods, there are no statistical techniques which can be used. Also, the facts that is
gathered from qualitative studies techniques is less generable whereas quantitative techniques are
extra generable.
Similarities of the two methods
Just as there are various differences between the two types of research methods, there are
also certain similarities (Pericak and et.al., 2020). For instance, one of the similarities between
quantitative as well as qualitative research methods is that the data which has not yet been
analyzed is still qualitative. Even though the numbers are unbiased, the researcher still has to
choose some numbers and at the same time disregard others. While the numbers are objective,
the overall process of choosing them and justifying why they are more important is a part of

qualitative research methods. Apart from this, another similarity is that both these research
methods require the researcher to conduct the research in an effective manner. The truth of
quantitative and qualitative research is that most studies are mixed. In order to get a complete
photo of a topic, a great researcher desires to use a mixture of both raw information and man or
woman impressions. This is the key similarity among qualitative and quantitative studies, they
may be each utilized in maximum instructional studies. Quantitative research in addition to
qualitative research, each strategies require that the uncooked records be analyzed. How that
happens depends on how the research is amassed (Pinto and Cruz, 2021). In a survey, each
reaction has to depend personally, after which the totals of each response are as compared to the
manipulate group or to the alternative responses. Quantitative research in addition to qualitative
research, each strategies require that the uncooked records be analyzed. How that happens
depends on how the research is amassed. In a survey, each reaction has to depend personally,
after which the totals of each response are as compared to the manipulate group or to the
alternative responses.
Importance of the research methods in terms of Evidence-based practice
It can be said that including evidence-based practice in nursing provides the nurses with
the scientific research to make effective as well as well-informed decisions so as to improve the
patient care. Apart from this, with the help of evidence-based practice, the nurses are able to stay
updated about the different new protocols related to patient care. As a result, this enables them to
evaluate research so that they are able to understand the risks as well as effectiveness of different
treatments. By searching for documented interventions that healthy the profiles in their sufferers,
nurses can boom their sufferers' chances for healing (Powers, 2020). EBP permits nurses to
assess research in order that they recognize the dangers or effectiveness of a diagnostic test or
treatments. The application of EBP enables nurses to encompass patients in their care plan. This
permits sufferers to have a proactive role of their personal healthcare when you consider that
they could voice concerns, share their values and opportunities and make guidelines on how they
need to maintain. With the assist of EBP comes better affected individual outcomes, which can
decrease the decision for healthcare resources. Thus, healthcare organizations can lessen charges.
For example, preceding practices may also have protected additives, gadget or merchandise
which is probably no longer important for certain techniques or techniques.

These special research methods make sure that there's an boom within the normal
effectiveness of the remedies. Evidence-based practice, also called EBP, is regularly utilized in
lots of elements of healthcare, which include nursing. It offers beneficial perception into
evidence-sponsored techniques in nearly each viable zone of nursing, including direct affected
person care, workflow issues, infection manage, supply management, charting, crucial line care,
and so on. Using EBP in scientific settings calls for a operating understanding of studies phrases
and methods. It permits nurses to put in force the ultra-modern research strategies in actual-
global eventualities, like direct affected person care. The nurse's expansive information paired
with first-class improvement information can allow the exploration of capacity modifications to
current workflows, in turn leading to enhanced patient results. Nurses utilize quantitative or
qualitative studies to be able to evaluate the quality interventions for sufferers (Pudasainee-
Kapri, 2021). They also may also acquire facts with the aid of appearing quantitative or
qualitative studies. The records nurses accumulate enables them determine a way to continue
with patient care. Quantitative proof presents the empiric understanding essential for practice,
and qualitative proof supports the non-public and experiential knowing crucial for exercise.
Qualitative studies provide its findings through contributors' words and tales, which can be
effortlessly carried out to nursing care practices.
It is important for the nurses to use the appropriate research method, either quantitative or
qualitative so as to ensure that the overall interventions for patient care can be enhanced.
Information literacy isn't always similar to the potential to read, use the computer successfully or
use search engines like google (White and et.al., 2020). This ability is going past comprehending
the basics of finding resources. Understanding statistics transforms it from know-how you have
got into expertise you could truly use. As a nurse, you need knowledge that makes a distinction
for your practice and helps you stay modern to your subject. Nurses gaining knowledge of to
efficiently technique and use facts from posted research can improve their facts literacy
(Reynolds and et.al., 2021). Simply reading examine consequences is of little assist if you do
now not realize what you examine. Nursing colleges teach nurses how to interpret statistics,
evaluate extraordinary research, manner records, critique outcomes and assume seriously.
Information literacy empowers nurses to apply research of their careers in an effort to make
meaningful clinical selections. Evidence-based practice requires using studies effects to force
clinical selections and care. Nurses need to base their paintings at the outcomes of research.

Peer-reviewed, published statistics that is frequent with the aid of the nursing career as an entire
affords steering and establishes fine practices within the discipline. Following the evidence,
wherever it leads, is fundamental to proof-based totally exercise. Results ought to be freed from
bias, verifiable and reproducible below the equal research conditions. The standards for top
research are high due to the fact posted research effects are likely to considerably have an effect
on the practice of nursing.
Best evidence consists of empirical proof from randomized controlled trials; evidence
from other clinical methods along with descriptive and qualitative studies; in addition to use of
statistics from case reviews, scientific standards, and professional opinion. When enough studies
evidence is available, the exercise need to be guided by research evidence along with clinical
understanding and patient values (Wang, 2021). In a few instances, but, a sufficient studies base
may not be to be had, and fitness care decision making is derived principally from no research
proof assets together with expert opinion and scientific concepts. As extra studies has achieved
in a particular vicinity, the research proof have to be included into the EBP.

CONCLUSION
From the above report, it can be concluded that there are two types of research methods
that are used in evidence-based nursing. Qualitative as well as quantitative are the two types of
research methods that can be used based on the requirement in the health care facility. Evidence
based nursing can be defined as a type of methodology that wherein all the research data for a
particular research problem is analyzed together. There are certain similarities as well as
differences between these two types of research methods. Nurses should ensure that the overall
evidence-based practice can be conducted in an effective manner. This further helps in
improving the overall condition of the patients and ensuring that effective decisions are taken.

REFERENCES
Books & Journals
Gnass, I. and et.al., 2021. An Evidence-Based Guideline on Pain Assessment in Nursing Homes
For Residents and Informal Caregivers. Pain Management Nursing.
Lee, M., 2020. Evidence Based Practice Positively Affects the Delivery of Nursing Care.
Lee, Y.J. and et.al., 2020. Evidence-Based Nursing Practice Guideline: Ostomy Care. Journal of
Korean Clinical Nursing Research, 26(2), pp.154-163.
Magee, D., Bramble, M. and Stanley, D., 2020. Expanding an Action Research framework for an
evidence based mentoring program in nursing: an exploration of cooperative inquiry.
Educational Action Research, 28(4), pp.597-608.
Melander, S. and et.al., 2020. Optimizing impact through the tiered doctor of nursing practice
project model. Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, 32(3),
pp.263-268.
Mitchell, K., Rekiere, J. and Grassley, J.S., 2020. The influence of undergraduate research
assistant experiences on future nursing roles. Journal of Professional Nursing, 36(3),
pp.128-133.
Obeidat, R.F. and Al-Delaimy, W., 2020. Applying the Ethical Principle of Social Benefits in
Nursing Research in Developing Countries: the Case of Jordan. Journal of Academic
Ethics, pp.1-12.
Pericak, A. and et.al., 2020. What Influences Work Engagement Among Registered Nurses:
Implications for Evidence‐Based Action. Worldviews on Evidence‐Based Nursing, 17(5),
pp.356-365.
Pinto, J.B. and Cruz, I., 2021. Nursing evidence-based practice guidelines for Urinary Tract
Infection/Urinary Tract Infectious Desease in ICU-Systematic Literature Review.
Journal of Specialized Nursing Care, 13(1).
Powers, J., 2020. Increasing capacity for nursing research in magnet-designated organizations to
promote nursing research. Applied Nursing Research, 55, p.151286.
Pudasainee-Kapri, S., 2021. Providers' adherence to evidence-based asthma guidelines in
pediatric primary care. Journal of pediatric nursing, 57, pp.18-24.
Reynolds, S.S. and et.al., 2021. Impact of Citrus Essential Oil Diffusion on Health Care Staff's
Stress Levels: An Evidence-Based Practice Project. Holistic Nursing Practice, 35(2),
pp.65-70.
Wang, Y., 2021. Application Effect of Informationized Teaching Method Based on Evidence-
based Nursing in Surgical Nursing Teaching. Journal of Clinical and Nursing Research,
5(2).
White, E. and et.al., 2020. Nursing practice environment and care quality in nursing homes.
Nursing Management, 51(6), pp.9-12.
Online
Quantitative Research: Definition, Methods, Types and Examples. 2021. [Online]. Available
through:< https://www.questionpro.com/blog/quantitative-research/>.