Discussion Question:
Describe the value of qualitative research in healthcare and its’ impact on clinical decision making. Provide an example how qualitative research may influence nursing practice or healthcare delivery.
Your initial posting should be at least 400 words in length and utilize at least one scholarly source other than the textbook.
Assignment:
Qualitative Research
Write a fully developed and detailed APA essay addressing each of the following points/questions. There is no required word count; be sure to completely answer all the questions for each question in detail. Separate each section in your paper with a clear heading that allows your professor to know which bullet you are addressing in that section of your paper. Support your ideas with at least one (1) source using citations in your essay. Make sure to cite using the APA writing style for the essay. The cover page and reference page are required. Review the rubric criteria for this assignment.
Conduct a literature search to select a qualitative research study on the topic identified in Module 1. Conduct an initial critical appraisal of the study.
Respond to the overview questions for the critical appraisal of qualitative studies, including:
- What type of qualitative research design was utilized to conduct the study?
- Are the results valid/trustworthy and credible?
o How were the participants chosen?
o How were accuracy and completeness of data assured?
o How plausible/believable are the results?
- Are implications of the research stated?
o May new insights increase sensitivity to others’ needs?
o May understandings enhance situational competence?
- What is the effect on the reader?
o Are the results plausible and believable?
o Is the reader imaginatively drawn to the experience?
- What are the results of the study?
o Does the research approach fit the purpose of the study?
- How does the researcher identify the study approach?
o Are the data collection and analysis techniques appropriate?
- Is the significance/importance of the study explicit?
o Does the literature support a need for the study?
o What is the study’s potential contribution?
- Is the sampling clear and guided by study needs?
o Does the researcher control selection of the sample?
o Do sample size and composition reflect the study needs?
o Is the phenomenon (human experience) clearly identified?
- Are data collection procedures clear?
o Are sources and means of verifying data explicit?
o Are researcher roles and activities explained?
- Are data analysis procedures described?
o Does analysis guide directions of sampling when it ends?
o Are data management processes described?
o What are the reported results (descriptive or interpretation)?
- How are specific findings presented?
o Are the data meanings derived from data described in context?
o Does the writing effectively promote understanding?
- Will the results help me care for my patients?
o Are the results relevant to persons in similar situations?
o Are the results relevant to patient values and/or circumstances?
o How may the results be applied to clinical practice?
Please be sure to answer the questions thoroughly using complete sentences and APA format. Explain responses to yes/no questions in detail by presenting information found in the study to support your response.
Provide a reference for the article according to APA format and a copy of the article.
Assignment Expectations:
Length: Clearly and fully answer all questions; attach a copy of the articleStructure: Include a title page and reference page in APA format. Your essay must include an introduction and a conclusion.References: Use appropriate APA style in-text citations and references for all resources utilized to answer the questions. A minimum of one (1) scholarly source for the article is required for this assignment.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Qualitative research is an upcoming research methodology in healthcare that emphasizes the individual experiences over quantitative data. It involves obtaining data from participants through observation or interviews and interpreting their subjective experiences. Qualitative research findings contribute to the development of healthcare policies that are sensitive enough to address patients’ needs. It aids in enhancing the quality of healthcare services, focusing on the patient experience and contributing to informed decision-making.
The Value of Qualitative Research in Healthcare
Qualitative research is essential in healthcare as it provides a deeper understanding of individual perspectives on health issues. Healthcare providers can use this information to develop patient-centered care plans that meet the needs of specific populations. Moreover, the data obtained in qualitative research helps to evaluate the effectiveness of healthcare programs and policies. Qualitative research can also uncover potential socioeconomic and cultural barriers that prevent patients from accessing healthcare services.
Impact on Clinical Decision Making
Qualitative research can impact clinical decision-making by providing insights into patients’ experiences with healthcare services. This information can help healthcare professionals in designing effective interventions that address patients’ unique needs. A healthcare provider can use the findings to tailor care plans to patient preference, leading to better health outcomes. For instance, qualitative research can influence nursing practice by identifying the factors that impact patient experiences, creating better communication strategies between nurses and patients, and improving the quality of care.
Example of Qualitative Research in Healthcare Delivery
A qualitative study by Kilcullen et al. (2019) examined the experiences of patients undergoing palliative care. The study identified communication breakdowns between patients and healthcare providers, inadequate symptom management, and limited support as key aspects affecting palliative care delivery. The study stressed the importance of palliative care delivery highlighting the need for comprehensive, person-centered palliative care. The findings of this study can inform policy decisions regarding palliative care, leading to better access to care, support, and symptom management.
Conclusion
Qualitative research plays an essential role in healthcare delivery, and its findings can significantly impact clinical decision-making. By focusing on the qualitative aspect of healthcare delivery, healthcare providers can develop patient-centered healthcare services that meet individual needs, improve communication, and lead to better health outcomes. Qualitative research is an invaluable tool in healthcare research, providing insights that quantitative data could never provide.