Chapter 2

Introduction to the Quantitative Research Process

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Comparison of the Nursing Process and the Research Process

Nursing Process
1. Assessment A. Data collection B. Data interpretation 2. Nursing diagnosis

Research Process
1. Knowledge of the world of nursing

2. Problem and purpose identification 3. Methodology A. Design B. Sample C. Measurement

3. Plan A. Goal identification B. Planned interventions

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Comparison of the Nursing Process and the Research Process (cont)

Nursing Process
4. Implementation

Research Process
4. Data collection and analysis
5. Outcomes and disseminating findings

5. Evaluation and modification

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Types of Quantitative Research

Descriptive Correlational Quasi-experimental

Experimental

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Quantitative Research
Most common type of research Descriptive and correlational: used predominantly to generate nursing knowledge Quasi-experimental: increasing with testing of nursing interventions Experimental: infrequently conducted

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Quantitative Research
Descriptive Correlational Quasi-experimental
Increased control with type of study

Experimental

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Type of Study Conducted

Knowledge available on topic Expertise of researcher Replication versus original research

Resources of researcher: funding

Amount of funding Sources of funding

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Concepts Relevant to Quantitative Research

Basic research
Applied research Rigor Control

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Basic or Applied Research

Quantitative studies are basic or applied. Basic research: concerned with underlying mechanisms of an intervention, such as effect of pressure on tissues

Applied research: concerned with effect of the intervention on the patient, such as turning patient to relieve pressure

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Types of Research Settings

Natural or field settings Partially controlled settings Highly controlled or laboratory settings

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Steps of the Quantitative Research Process

Research problem and purpose Literature review Study framework

Objectives, questions, or hypotheses

Study variables

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Steps of the Quantitative Research Process (cont)

Assumptions Limitations Research design

Population and sample

Methods of measurement

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Steps of the Quantitative Research Process (cont)

Data collection and analysis Research outcomes Communication of findings

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Initial Research Report Critique

What type of study was conducted? What was the setting for the study? Were the steps for the research process clearly identified? Were any of the steps missing? Did the steps of the study logically link together?

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