DQ 3 -1

Response 4 and 5

4. When it comes to Qualitative research it is meant to describe data in deeper terms than simply referring to numbers. Quantitative research is data that is represented in numbers, such as percentages. Qualitative research describes different realities; while Quantitative deals with facts (Neutens, & Rubinson, 2014, p. 129).  The similarities between the two is that they both are concerned with the decrease of data, they both are a response to research, both deal with variation, show transparency, and they both address the issue that arises with error (Neri de Souza, 2017). 

 I believe that both of these hold very well in research in health care. Qualitative research would be taking a questioner about how nice or polite a nurse was when caring for a patient. This can be something that is described differently by each and every patient depending on the patient’s pain level, what time of day it is, or even first judgement of the nurse. Quantitative research can be how many falls occur in the hospital in a given month. Quantitative is facts that can be measured numerically.

 Reference:

Neri de Souza, F. (2017, January 10). Research: Similarities between methodologies and methodologies. In WebQDA. Retrieved November 13, 2017, from https://www.webqda.net/qualitative-research-similarities-between-methodologies-and-methodologies/?lang=en

 Neutens, J. J., & Rubinson, L. (2014). Research techniques for the health sciences (5th ed., p. 129). San Francisco, CA: Pearson Education.

5.

Quantitative research studies focuses on numbers or quantity.  Quantitative studies have results that are based on numeric analysis and statistics.  Quantitative research often uses a large  number of participants, which can give the analysis more statistical power.  Qualitative research focuses on quality, rather than quantity.  Results are typically in words or pictures rather than numbers. Qualitative research studies “utilizes samples which are usually non-representative and small, analysis of the data is very time consuming because it cannot be simply added up to provide a definitive answer; it must be analyzed by the researcher in a thoughtful and thorough manner” (Neutens & Rubinson, 2014). 

An example of qualitative research in my workplace:  Finding out what type of activities (other than bingo) would be more stimulating and beneficial for dementia patients.  This process would not be well represented by having participants fill out questionnaires with closed-ended questions.  This process is more complex than it may seem and getting the input of the patient’s families and friends would be conducive.  With this type of study, time and money is a factor so interviewing all patients and family members is not feasible.  Choosing six patients and two of their family members or friends that would be willing to participate and give positive creative ideas and feedback, would add value to the study.

An example of quantitative research in my workplace:  Finding out how many nurses are at risk for burnout.  A survey is sent to the work email of 500 randomly selected nurses asking if they are interested in participating.  400 out of the 500 nurses respond to the survey.  They go to the website to fill out the survey, which takes about 15-20 minutes.  The data is then complied in a database and the statistical analysis is ran to determine the nurses level of stress and their burnout risk. 

 Reference:   

Neutens, James J. & Rubinson, Laurna (2014). Research Techniques for Health Sciences. Fifth Edition, Pearson Benjamin Cummings, San Francisco, CA. Retrieved from: http://www.gcumedia.com/digital-resources/pearson/2013/research-techniques-for-the-health-sciences_ebook_5e.php