Content area
Full Text
KEY WORDS
Research methodology, Qualitative research, evidence based practice (EBP).
ABSTRACT
Objective
This article provides a breakdown of the components of qualitative research methodology. Its intention is to simplify the terminology and process of qualitative research to enable novice readers of research to better understand the concepts involved (Benner 1984).
Primary Argument
Current Competency Standards for Australian Registered Nurses and Midwives include a requirement to evaluate and implement research as part of their care (Borbasi and Jackson 2012, p.22; Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia 2012). They are also expected to be actively involved in research studies (Borbasi and Jackson 2012, p.22). Evidence, when available, can enhance clinical judgement (Hamer and Collinson 2014, p.9). As evidence and research are threaded through professional work and study in the health sciences (Wright-St Clair et al 2014, p.5) nurses, particularly novice nurses, may benefit from a discussion that helps them understand the sequence of a research paper (Moxham 2012) using qualitative methodology.
Conclusion
A systematic and logical approach will be used to discuss the content of a typical qualitative research paper. A comparative grid at the end of this paper (appendix 1) comparing the qualitative research designs, may lead the nurse to better understand the differing components of several qualitative research methods (Ingham-Broomfield 2014).
INTRODUCTION
An expectation of nurses graduating is that they will become critical consumers of research (Wright-St Clair et al 2014). Liamputtong (2013, p. 5) and Wright-St Clair et al (2014, pp.4-5) agree Evidence Based Practice (EBP) can be defined as the conscientious integration of best research evidence with clinical expertise, patient values and needs in the delivery of high-quality, cost effective health care. Assessment tools are used on a regular basis by clinicians in clinical practice, and during research (Imms and Greaves 2013) to ultimately improve patient care. In this paper main components of qualitative research will be discussed as one paradigm for researching health related problems and issues.
THE QUALITATIVE RESEARCH PAPER
Definition and meaning of Qualitative research:
Qualitative research is used to examine subjective human experience by using non-statistical methods of analysis (Borbasi and Jackson 2012). It is associated with naturalistic inquiry which explores the complex experience of human beings (Moxham 2012, p.32). Qualitative research is underpinned by several theoretical perspectives...