Discussion Question:
Explain the difference between internal and external evidence. How can each of these types of evidence be utilized for quality improvement in the clinical setting?
Your initial posting should be at least 400 words in length and utilize at least one scholarly source other than the textbook. Please reply to at least two classmates. Replies to classmates should be at least 200 words in length.
Assignment:
Quantitative 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 quantitative research study related to the problem identified in Module 1 and conduct an initial critical appraisal. Respond to the overview questions for the critical appraisal of quantitative studies, including:
- Is this quantitative research report a case study, case control study, cohort study, randomized control trial or systematic review?
- Where does the study fall in the hierarchy of evidence in terms of reliability and risk of bias?
- Why was the study done? (Define the problem and purpose.)
- Were the steps of the study clearly identified?
- What was the sample size?
- Are the measurements of major variables reliable and valid? Explain.
- How were the data analyzed?
- Were there any untoward events during the conduct of the study?
- How do the results fit with previous research in the area? (This may be reflected in the literature review.)
- What does this research mean to clinical practice?
Additionally, be sure to include the rapid appraisal questions for the specific research design of the quantitative study that you have chosen. These can be found in Chapter 5 of the textbook (Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt, 2015).
This critical appraisal should be written in complete sentences (not just a numbered list) using APA format.
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:
As a medical professor, one of the key responsibilities is to teach students how to evaluate and utilize evidence to improve the quality of clinical care. There are various types of evidence, including internal and external evidence. In this response, the difference between internal and external evidence and how each type of evidence can be utilized for quality improvement in the clinical setting will be discussed.
Difference between internal and external evidence:
Internal evidence refers to data or information that is generated within a specific organization or clinical setting, such as patient outcomes, staff performance, or process efficiency. On the other hand, external evidence refers to data or information that is generated or published outside of an organization or clinical setting, such as research studies, literature reviews, or clinical guidelines.
Utilizing internal evidence for quality improvement:
Internal evidence can be utilized in various ways to improve the quality of clinical care. For example, gathering and analyzing patient outcomes data can help identify areas for improvement and guide interventions to enhance patient care. Collecting and analyzing staff performance data can also help streamline processes and improve overall efficiency, while providing feedback to staff can lead to better and more consistent quality of care.
Utilizing external evidence for quality improvement:
External evidence can also be utilized in various ways to improve the quality of clinical care. Research studies and literature reviews can provide valuable information about best practices and effective interventions for specific conditions or situations. Clinical guidelines developed by reputable organizations can provide evidence-based recommendations for diagnosis, treatment, and management of various health conditions. Utilizing external evidence can help healthcare providers make informed decisions and ensure that their practice aligns with current evidence-based standards.
Conclusion:
Both internal and external evidence are important sources of information that can be utilized for quality improvement in the clinical setting. It is essential for healthcare providers to be able to evaluate and utilize evidence effectively to ensure the provision of safe, effective, and high-quality care to their patients.
