NURS RESEARCH 2
A researcher identifies a group of Native American subjects who are at risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus and follows this group over time to observe actual rates of acquiring this disease. This is an example of a a. clinical database. b. prospective cohort study. c. qualitative study. d. quasi-experimental study.
B A prospective cohort study is an epidemiologic study in which the researcher identifies a group of people who are at risk for a condition and follows them over time. A clinical database is a collection of data about a group of patients. A qualitative study is a nonexperimental study to examine attributes of a group of subjects. A quasi-experimental study is one in which the researcher has less control over independent variables than in a random-controlled trial.
What is the role of evidence-based practice in outcomes research? a. Evidence-based practice identifies practice standards that can be evaluated using patient outcomes. b. Evidence-based practice defines practice styles and patterns used in professional practice. c. The standards used in evidence-based practice clearly identify desired patient outcomes. d. There is a clear link between evidence-based practice and improved patient outcomes.
A EBP guidelines contain standards and norms against which patient outcomes can be evaluated. Practice styles and patterns represent variations in what type of care and how care is delivered and are part of clinical guidelines. Very few empirical studies have assessed the impact of EBP on patient outcomes.
A researcher wishes to widely disseminate findings of outcomes research to influence practice in a variety of settings. Which methods might this researcher use? a. A series of presentations and publications in professional and public forums b. An oral presentation at an international conference c. Publication in scholarly, peer-reviewed journals d. Writing about this research in a chapter of a nursing textbook
A Employing a series of presentations and publications in many venues is the only approach that achieves a widespread dissemination of the research findings. An open forum for exchange of ideas is excellent but is not sufficient in the eyes of outcomes researchers. Outcomes researchers consider wide dissemination of the results to providers and consumers necessary to promote change in healthcare practices. Presenting the findings, even at a prestigious conference, is not sufficient in the eyes of outcomes researchers. Outcomes researchers consider wide dissemination of the results to providers and consumers necessary to promote change in healthcare practices.
What is the main purpose of a literature review in grounded theory research? a. To explain, extend, and support the framework used for the study b. To identify gaps in current knowledge about the research topic c. To place research findings in context of what is already known d. To support the need to study the selected research topic
A In grounded theory research, the researcher uses the literature review primarily to explain, support, and extend the framework used in the study, and not to direct data collection or study methods. It is usually completed at the end of the analysis rather than before the proposal development. The literature review in quantitative studies is designed to identify gaps in knowledge. Phenomenological literature reviews are conducted to place research findings in the context of what is already known. Because the literature review for grounded theory research is generally conducted at the end of the analysis, it is not used to support the need for studying the topic, but to summarize what is known.
Which is one of the indicators used by the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI)? a. Assessment, intervention, and reassessment of pediatric pain b. Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) standards c. Protocols for monitoring biometric equipment used in hospitals d. The number of hours hospital residents work per week
A NDNQI identifies and develops nursing-sensitive quality measures. Assessment, intervention, and reassessment of pediatric pain is one of the indicators it uses. CLIA standards are those applied to hospital laboratory personnel and equipment. Biometric equipment standards are not nursing-sensitive measures. Standards about hospital residents are not nursing-sensitive measures.
Which type of publication describes a journal that is published over time and is numbered sequentially for the years published? a. Periodical b. Article c. Encyclopedia d. Monograph
A a periodical such as a journal is published over time and is numbered sequentially for the years published. This sequential numbering is seen in the year, volume, issue, and page numbering of a journal. An article is a paper about a specific topic and may be published together with other articles on similar themes in journals, encyclopedias, or edited books. An encyclopedia is an authoritative compilation of information on alphabetized topics that may provide background information and lead to other sources, but is rarely cited in academic papers and publications. A monograph, such as a book on a specific subject, a record of conference proceedings, or a pamphlet, usually is a one-time publication.
Some studies cited in a literature review may be decades old. The researcher may decide to use studies from this far back because these studies a. are groundbreaking or landmark studies. b. are particularly well-written studies. c. are peer-reviewed, relevant studies. d. are still considered current studies.
A Studies that are groundbreaking or landmark studies are those that were significant to the development of knowledge on the topic being reviewed. In this case, it is appropriate to cite these studies, even if they are very old. Well-written, peer-reviewed studies that are not current are generally not used in a literature review. Studies that are decades old, however well-written and relevant, are not current studies, but are used for historical or seminal context.
A nurse appraising a research article should perform which action to critically evaluate the literature review? a. Locate and review sources and abstracts listed in the research article. b. Note the number of data-based and theoretical sources cited in the reference list. c. Perform a meta-analysis or meta-synthesis on the cited references. d. Search the literature to determine whether other relevant sources exist.
B Because it would be very time consuming to search the literature and determine whether the listed sources are relevant, the reviewer should review the reference list and determine the focus of the sources, the number of data-based and theoretical sources cited, and where and when the sources were published. Locating and reviewing all abstracts would be too time consuming and may not be possible. Meta-analysis and meta-synthesis are not done when critically appraising a literature review. These techniques are used to perform an in-depth analysis of studies already cited in the literature. It is not necessary at this point to search the literature to determine other relevant sources.
Which type of information would the reader be least interested in obtaining from a literature review? a. How the variables of interest have been operationally defined in prior studies. b. Narration of an author's impression of a given situation c. Research results d. What research approaches have been used to study similar problems.
B The type of information that the reader would be least interested in obtaining from a literature review is the narration of an author's impression of a given situation. A high-quality review of literature contains the current theoretical and scientific knowledge about a specific topic, and identifies what is known and unknown about that topic. A review of literature is the process of finding relevant research reports and theoretical sources, critically appraising these sources, synthesizing the results, and developing an accurate complete reference list.
A nurse researcher understands that a search may identify thousands of references. In an effort to refine the search, which of the following are accurate statements? Select all that apply. a. Increasing the range of years you are searching is an effective strategy. b. Combining terms or searching for the terms only in the abstract will decrease the number of articles identified. c. It is not appropriate to limit the search to only full-text articles for undergraduate students. d. Narrowing a search tightly is an effective strategy to access more results. e. Some electronic databases allow you to limit the search to certain types of articles.
B,E Combining terms or searching for the terms only in the abstract will decrease the number of articles identified. Some electronic databases allow you to limit the search to certain types of articles, such as scholarly, peer-reviewed articles. One strategy is to decrease the range of years you are searching. It is appropriate to limit the search to only full-text articles for undergraduate students; graduate students should avoid limiting searches to full-text articles because doing so might result in missing sources that are needed.
Which of the following are true statements about the mixed-methods design strategy known as convergent concurrent strategy? Select all that apply. a. A strategy used when the researcher collects and analyzes quantitative data, and then collects and analyzes qualitative data to explain the quantitative findings. b. It is selected when a researcher wishes to use quantitative and qualitative methods to confirm, cross-validate, or corroborate findings using a single sample or two samples from the same population. c. A strategy used when the researcher collects quantitative and qualitative data at the same time, analyzes each set of data, and integrates the findings. d. It may be used when the researcher wants to expand on what is known about a phenomenon and the researcher does not want the content of the quantitative instruments to bias data collected qualitatively. e. Parallel design is often called exploratory sequential strategy because quantitative and qualitative data collection processes are conducted at the same time.
B,C Convergent concurrent strategy is selected when a researcher wishes to use quantitative and qualitative methods to confirm, cross-validate, or corroborate findings using a single sample or two samples from the same population. It is also used when the researcher collects quantitative and qualitative data at the same time, analyzes each set of data, and integrates the findings. Explanatory sequential strategy is used when the researcher collects and analyzes quantitative data, and then collects and analyzes qualitative data to explain the quantitative findings. Exploratory sequential designs may be used when the researcher wants to expand on what is known about a phenomenon and the researcher does not want the content of the quantitative instruments to bias data collected qualitatively. Parallel design is often called convergent concurrent strategy because quantitative and qualitative data collection processes are conducted at the same time.
For a study to be considered current, it should be published within the last a.year. b. 2 years. c. 5 years. d. 10 years.
C Current sources are those published within 5 years before publication of the manuscript. All other statements are incorrect.
When determining the reliability of a website resource in a literature review, it is important to determine a. accessibility of the website information. b. costs of retrieving website information. c. sponsorship of website information. d. whether website information is also published conventionally.
C Not all websites are valid and appropriate for citation in a literature review. Those that are sponsored by companies that sell certain products under study may not be appropriate resources because their information may be biased. Accessibility, cost, and conventional publication of website information are not determinants of reliability of website information.
When developing evidence-based-practice guidelines, if a researcher wishes to identify studies that evaluate a specific intervention in quantitative research, the literature review should include a. grounded theory research. b. only current research from the last 5 years. c. replication studies and meta-analyses. d. seminal and landmark studies about the topic.
C To synthesize evidence related to a practice problem and to evaluate a specific intervention in quantitative research, replication studies, meta-analyses, and meta-syntheses are used. Grounded theory research is performed to test theory. While current research is desired, researchers may review older studies, particularly if they are seminal or landmark studies, although these are not necessary for this type of literature review.
In the following APA-formatted reference, what is indicated by the italicized words?Maxwell, S. E., & Delaney, H. D. (2004). Designing experiments and analyzing data: A model comparison perspective (2nd ed.). Mahway, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. a. Abstract information b. Journal title c. Book title d. Publishing company
C When citing a book, the title is italicized. The abstract information is not included in a reference citation. A journal title is italicized if the citation is from a journal. The publishing company information is listed last.
Which is an example of a distal outcome in outcomes research? a. Glucose monitoring skills in patients receiving diabetic teaching b. Hospital readmission rates in patients admitted for myocardial infarction c. Pain scores before and after pain medication d. Patient perception of tobacco advertising among COPD patients
D A distal outcome is one which is removed from proximity to the care or service received and is more influenced by external (nontreatment) factors. Quality of life is an example of a distal outcome. Glucose monitoring skills, hospital readmission rates, and pain scores are proximal outcomes because they are related directly to nursing interventions and not to external forces.
Which government agency supports research to improve the outcomes and quality of health care? a. AHRQ b. ARRA c. CIHI d. FDA
A The Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) supports research designed to improve the outcomes and quality of health care. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) is not a government agency; funding from this act allowed AHRQ to expand its work in support of comparative effectiveness research. The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) helped to establish national Canadian standards for collecting and reporting financial and statistical data from health service organizations. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the research and distribution of medications.
Which of the following are true statements about critical appraisal of outcomes studies? Select all that apply. a. Focus on similarity of the exposed cohort and unexposed (control) cohort b. Focus on adequacy and completeness of follow-up c. Focus on reliability and validity of the outcome measure(s) d. Focus on statistical and clinical insignificance of the study findings e. Focus on differences of the exposed cohort and unexposed (control) cohort
A, B, C Critical appraisal of outcomes studies focuses on similarity of the exposed cohort and unexposed (control) cohort, adequacy and completeness of follow-up, reliability and validity of the outcome measure(s), and statistical and clinical significance of the study findings.
What type of sample is generally used in outcomes studies? a. Small sample b. Heterogeneous sample c. Homogeneous sample d. Volunteer sample
B Because the target population in outcomes studies is often heterogeneous, it is necessary to obtain large, heterogeneous samples. A small sample would not provide a heterogeneous sample. Typical sampling criteria for outcomes research include obtaining a very large, heterogeneous sample in which all patients have the likelihood of being represented. A volunteer sample is generally not encouraged, as it does not allow for the researcher to influence the sample characteristics.
When initially reading the relevant literature for comprehension, the researcher will a. critically appraise the studies. b. highlight the main points of the studies. c. make decisions about paraphrasing quotes. d. review the abstract only.
B Comprehending a source begins by reading and focusing on understanding the main points of the article and can be achieved by highlighting the main points of the article. Critical appraisal involves making value judgments about the validity or credibility of the study content. Deciding what to paraphrase occurs later, just before writing the review. Reviewing the abstract helps the researcher determine which articles are relevant but does not help with comprehension.
What mixed-methods design strategy is used when the researcher begins with collection and analysis of qualitative data, followed by collection of quantitative data? a. Convergent concurrent strategy b. Exploratory sequential strategy c. Explanatory sequential strategy d. Parallel design
B Exploratory sequential designs may be used when the researcher wants to expand on what is known about a phenomenon and the researcher does not want the content of the quantitative instruments to bias data collected qualitatively. Convergent concurrent designs are used when the researcher collects quantitative and qualitative data at the same time, analyzes each set of data, and integrates the findings. Explanatory sequential designs are used when the researcher collects and analyzes quantitative data, and then collects and analyzes qualitative data to explain the quantitative findings. Parallel design is often called convergent concurrent strategy because quantitative and qualitative data collection processes are conducted at the same time.
Which is an example of a type of nursing service that might be evaluated in outcomes research? a. Application of wound care products b. Clinical care protocol implementation c. Glucose monitoring for newly diagnosed diabetics d. Using a Braden Scale for skin assessment
B Nursing services can include staffing and education of nurses as well as implementation of protocols and standards of care. Application of products, monitoring patient status, and using measurement scales are all examples of nursing intervention
The goal of outcomes research is to a. determine the most cost-effective nursing interventions in patient care. b. examine the end results of patient care from various health interventions. c. help providers make end-of-life decisions about patient care. d. improve patient satisfaction with nursing care.
B Outcomes research focuses on the end results of healthcare practices and interventions. Cost-effectiveness is one possible outcome, but other patient outcomes may be more important. Outcomes research is not solely about end-of-life care and is not focused on end-of-life decision making. Patient satisfaction is one result but is not the goal of all outcomes research.
In an outcome study, a researcher demonstrates a link between the number of mothers who successfully breastfeed their infants and the number of maternal-child nurses who are baccalaureate prepared. This illustrates a. interdependent nursing role functions. b. nursing-sensitive patient outcomes. c. patient-sensitive outcomes. d. the Nursing Role Effectiveness Model.
B Outcomes that are nursing sensitive are those that are influenced by nursing care decisions and actions as well as those associated with nursing staffing, education, and assignments. Interdependent nursing functions are those that include both nurse-initiated and physician-initiated treatments. Patient-sensitive outcomes are those that are influenced by different aspects of patients, such as age, gender, or disease process. The Nursing Role Effectiveness Model examines outcomes that are nursing sensitive.
Which type of study is least likely to include a review of the literature prior to initiating the study? a. Grounded theory b. Phenomenological c. Qualitative d. Quantitative
B Phenomenological researchers are most likely to delay literature review until after a study is completed to avoid bias. Grounded theory researchers may have a limited review of relevant studies to make the researcher aware of what studies have been conducted and that a research problem exists. Qualitative and quantitative research will involve literature reviews, although these may be less substantial in qualitative studies.
Which is an important finding in outcomes research about Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) practice? a. APNs provide care that is equivalent to that provided by doctors at a fraction of the cost. b. Care by APNs shows equivalent or improved outcomes to that provided by physicians. c. Hospital readmission rates are slightly higher for patients who use APNs for primary care. d. The level of patient satisfaction is greater with APNs regardless of clinical outcomes.
B There is abundant research demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of APNs. In a search of all random-controlled trials comparing APNs to usual care, findings consistently showed that care by APNs resulted in equivalent or improved outcomes. Studies are not reported showing equivalent care at reduced cost. Studies do not show increased readmission rates. Patient satisfaction is high, but so are positive clinical outcomes.
Once relevant studies have been identified, the researcher's next step is to a. determine the expertise of each study's authors. b. obtain full-text copies of each of these articles. c. review the study design and methodology of each article. d. write the literature review based on abstract information.
B Although the abstract information helps to determine a study's relevance, it is essential to read the full-text article to conduct a literature review. Once relevant studies are found, the researcher must obtain either electronic or print full-text articles. During the literature review, the researcher will examine the authors' expertise and will review the study design and methodology. The literature review cannot be written based on abstract information only.
Which is most important in a critical appraisal of a body of literature? a. Counting the available resources to determine whether more information is necessary b. Examining the quality and content of the resources to determine the credibility and validity of each c. Reviewing the reference lists in each study to find other relevant studies and landmark studies d. Searching the literature thoroughly using appropriate keywords to ensure that all relevant literature is included
B Critiquing the literature review of a published study involves examining the quality of the content and sources presented. This is more important than achieving an accurate count of available resources. The literature search is important and must be thorough, but the critical appraisal depends on an evaluation of the quality and not the quantity of the available resources. Reviewing the reference lists may be useful for determining whether other relevant studies exist, but it is not the most important aspect of a critical appraisal, which is an evaluation of the quality of studies available. Searching the literature thoroughly using appropriate keywords to ensure that all relevant literature is included may be useful for determining whether other relevant studies exist, but it is not the most important aspect of a critical appraisal, which is an evaluation of the quality of studies available.
Which would be an example of an interdependent role for nurses in the Nursing Role Effectiveness Model? a. Administering a medication to a patient b. Arranging for home healthcare services c. Initiating a fall risk protocol d. Performing an admission assessment
B Interdependent role functions in the Nursing Role Effectiveness Model include communication, case management, and coordination of care. Dependent role functions include execution of medical orders and physician-initiated treatments. Independent role functions include assessment, diagnosis, and nursing-initiated treatments.
An initial step when preparing to conduct a literature review is to a. choose the types of sources to use. b. clarify the purpose of the review. c. determine how many articles to review. d. select electronic databases and keywords.
B Because the approach will vary according to the purpose of the review, the first step in conducting a literature review is to identify the purpose of the review. The types of sources and the number of articles to review depend on the purpose of the review. Once the purpose of the review is established and the author has an idea about the type and number of sources, the electronic databases and keywords are selected.
Which of the following are true statements about conducting the search (step 2) of the literature review? Select all that apply. a. Reading the articles and appraising, analyzing, and synthesizing the literature b. Obtaining full-text copies of relevant articles c. Developing an outline to organize information from the review d. Using a table to document the results of the search e. Clarifying the purpose of the literature review f. Ensuring that information needed to cite the source is recorded
B, D, F Conducting the search includes: searching the selected databases, using a table to document the results of the search, refining the search, reviewing the abstracts to identify relevant studies, obtaining full-text copies of relevant articles, and ensuring that information needed to cite the source is recorded. Reading the articles and appraising, analyzing, and synthesizing the literature describe processing the literature. Developing an outline to organize information from the review describes writing the review of literature. Clarifying the purpose of the literature review describes preparing to review the literature.
A researcher conducts a study using dependent and independent variables used in a previous study but uses a different population of subjects. What type of study is this? a. Landmark b. Pilot c. Replication d. Seminal
C A replication study is a reproduction or repetition of a study that a researcher conducts to determine whether the findings of the original study can be consistently found in different settings with different subjects. A landmark study is one that generates knowledge that influences a discipline and sometimes society. Landmark studies are often replicated. A pilot study is a study using a small sample size to develop the study methods and tools and is later replicated on a larger scale. A seminal study is the first study on a particular topic that signals a new way of thinking about the topic. These studies are often replicated.
One reason for conducting a review of the literature other than for purposes of developing a research study is to a. determine the expertise of researchers in the field of study. b. identify current theoretical frameworks. c. implement evidence-based practice guidelines. d. work in a Magnet-certified hospital setting.
C Although a literature reviews are commonly associated with development of research studies, they are also conducted when developing projects to establish evidence-based practice (EBP). Evaluation of the expertise of researchers and identification of theoretical frameworks are part of literature reviews but are not the reason for conducting them. Nurses in Magnet hospitals often participate in EBP projects and will conduct literature reviews for these, but not solely to be able to work in these institutions.
When developing the outline for a literature review, the nurse researcher's first step is to a. describe the focus or purpose of the review in the discussion section. b. include a statement about what is known in the literature. c. make notes about which sources to site in each section. d. use a standardized format to outline subsections in the discussion section.
C An initial outline is the first step in writing the literature review and begins with determining the major sections for the paper and identifying the sources that will be used in each one. The introduction section includes the focus or purpose of the literature review. The conclusion contains the statement about what is known in the literature. The discussion section format will vary based on the topic.
A review of empirical literature will yield information obtained from a. concept analyses. b. descriptions of models and frameworks. c. research studies. d. CEmpirical literature refers to knowledge derived from research and is based on data from research. Theoretical literature includes concept analyses, models, theories, and conceptual frameworks.theories.
C Empirical literature refers to knowledge derived from research and is based on data from research. Theoretical literature includes concept analyses, models, theories, and conceptual frameworks.
Which source of information is rarely cited in academic publications? a. Conference proceedings b. Dissertation or thesis c. Encyclopedia d. Textbooks
C Encyclopedias tend to provide background information and some information leading to other resources, but generally not scholarly or primary source information. Conference proceedings, dissertations or theses, and textbooks may all be cited.
The mixed-methods design strategy that begins with the collection, analysis, and interpretation of quantitative data, followed by a qualitative phase is known as a. convergent concurrent strategy. b. exploratory sequential strategy. c. explanatory sequential strategy. d.parallel design.
C Explanatory sequential designs are used when the researcher collects and analyzes quantitative data, and then collects and analyzes qualitative data to explain the quantitative findings. These studies are most useful in providing answers to "why" and "how" questions that arise from quantitative findings. Convergent concurrent designs are used when the researcher collects quantitative and qualitative data at the same time, analyzes each set of data, and integrates the findings. Exploratory sequential designs may be used when the researcher wants to expand on what is known about a phenomenon and the researcher does not want the content of the quantitative instruments to bias data collected qualitatively. Parallel design is often called convergent concurrent strategy because quantitative and qualitative data collection processes are conducted at the same time.
What is an important aspect of outcomes research as defined by Donabedian? a. Selection of only proximal outcomes to streamline outcomes research b. The need for patients or recipients of care to define which outcomes are desirable c. The need to link outcomes with specific nursing processes d. The use of population groups rather than individuals for outcome studies
C In outcomes research, according to Donabedian, there is a need to clearly link identified outcomes with the processes that caused the outcomes. Outcomes research involves studies of all outcomes of nursing care. Donabedian does not identify the need to study patient feelings about outcomes or care. Donabedian does not identify the need to use population groups rather than individuals for outcome studies.
A reviewer reading a proposal for a qualitative research study notes that the author has not included a literature review. The reviewer understands that a literature review may have been omitted in this case because a. it is not necessary to conduct a literature review for b. qualitative research. qualitative research is conducted to study areas where there is no previous knowledge. c. some researchers feel that previous studies may bias data collection in qualitative studies. d. the researcher was not adequately prepared to conduct this research study.
C Many times, literature reviews are omitted from qualitative research to avoid causing expectations that might bias findings, data collection, and data analysis. A literature review can be helpful in qualitative research and should be performed if possible. This is true of some but not all qualitative methods (e.g., grounded theory); however, it is not true of all qualitative designs. At times, there is little or no previous research on the topic, but not always. Omission of a literature review in qualitative research does not indicate that the researcher is ill-prepared.
To help meet the requirements for magnet recognition, which organization will a hospital participate in? a. The American Nurses Association (ANA) b. The Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) c. The National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI) d. The National Quality Forum (NQF)
C Participation in NDNQI meets requirements for the Magnet Recognition Program. Although the ANA is the organization that oversees the Magnet Recognition Program, hospitals do not join this organization. The AHRQ supports research designed to improve the outcomes and quality of health care. The NQF was created as a national standard-setting organization for healthcare performance measures.
Which type of study design is commonly used in outcomes studies? a. Phenomenological b. Qualitative c. Quasi-experimental d. Random-control trial
C Quasi-experimental studies and observational research designs are most commonly used for outcomes research to provide effectiveness and efficiency. Phenomenological and qualitative studies do not account for effects of variables on patient outcomes. Random-controlled trials also seek to provide evidence about the effects interventions, but, with outcomes studies, the intervention is not limited to medications or clinical procedures.
The development of the Uniform Hospital Discharge Data Set and the Universal Minimum Health Data Set was helped by a. establishing guidelines for outcomes research. b. identifying the contribution of nursing care to patient outcomes. c. prescribing data elements to be monitored in outcomes research. d. reporting financial and statistical data from hospitals.
C The data sets facilitated consistency in data collection among healthcare organizations by prescribing the data elements to be gathered. The data sets helped facilitate standards about data elements but did not establish guidelines for outcomes research. The Nursing Role Effectiveness Model helped to identify the contribution of nursing care to patient outcomes. The Canadian Institute for Health Information established a reporting system to report financial and statistical data from hospitals.
A nurse researcher explains the challenges associated with using a mixed-methods design to a group of RN-BSN students? Which statement by a nursing student indicates the need for further teaching? a. "The capacity of mixed-methods designs to answer the research question depends on effective methods for integrating the data from each component." b. "Seeking and receiving funding may be necessary to ensure completion of a study." c. "The research team should consist of health professionals with similar education and experiences." d. "Mixed-methods studies require time commitment that may exceed that required for single method studies."
C The research team should consist of health professionals with different education and experiences. When the research team is multidisciplinary, the team members bring different perspectives, skills, and expertise. Mixed-methods research strategies require a depth and breadth of research knowledge, as well as a significant commitment of time and resources.
A step just prior to beginning a literature search using an electronic database is to a. decide how many articles are needed. b. determine the type of study. c. identify keywords for the search. d. perform a Google search.
C To narrow the number of articles in a search and refine the search to more relevant articles, identifying keywords is necessary. The number of articles needed for a literature review depends on the content of the articles and will not be known ahead of time. The study type is not typically determined just prior to an electronic search. A Google search may or may not be helpful for leading a researcher to other articles, but it is not a scientific database.
In the following APA-formatted reference, what is indicated by the italicized words/numbers?Koehn, A. R., Ebright, P. R., & Draucker, C. B. (2016). Nurses' experiences with errors in nursing. Nursing Outlook, 64(6), 566-574. a. Article title/volume number b. Journal title/issue number c. Journal title/volume number d. Book title/issue number
C When citing a periodical (journal), the title and volume number are both italicized. The article title is not italicized in a journal. When citing a book, the title is italicized. The issue number is not italicized.
In a literature review, the author identifies themes present in articles under review and describes connections among these themes. This is an example of a. analysis. b. appraisal. c. synthesis. d. theorizing.
C Synthesis of sources involves thinking deeply about what has been found and identifying the main themes of the information. Analysis requires manipulation of what is found, literally making it the author's own. Appraisal involves identifying relevant content and determining the credibility or validity of the information. Theorizing is part of developing the research question.
A researcher performs a critical appraisal of a group of studies measuring the effects of a home care education program on confidence levels of caregivers of older family members. The critical appraisal will include a. determining the theoretical frameworks used for defining confidence. b. identifying sampling and inclusion criteria used in the studies. c. making value judgments about the credibility and validity of concepts. d. recording quotations relevant to the concept of confidence.
C To critically appraise an article, relevant content is identified and value judgments are made about the validity and credibility of key concepts. While identifying theoretical frameworks, identifying sampling techniques and inclusion criteria, and recording pertinent quotations are important, they are not part of the critical appraisal of studies.
A nurse identifies an unusual incidence of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in school-age children in a nearby community and conducts a study to examine exposure to a variety of water pollutants from a local industry. This is an example of a a. phenomenological study. b. qualitative study. c. prospective cohort study. d. retrospective cohort study.
D A retrospective cohort study is an epidemiologic study in which the researcher identifies a group of people who have experienced a particular event and examines possible previous causes for this event. Qualitative and phenomenological studies are nonexperimental studies to examine attributes of groups of subjects. A prospective cohort study is an epidemiologic study in which the researcher identifies a group of people who are at risk for a condition and follows them over time.
What is an important limitation of secondary sources in literature reviews? a. The authors do not have high levels of expertise. b. They are usually not peer-reviewed sources. c. They do not contain unique or original information. d. They may contain misinterpreted information.
D A secondary source summarizes or quotes content from primary sources. Because authors of secondary sources paraphrase the works of researchers and theorists and interpret what the primary author wrote, this information may be misinterpreted. Authors of secondary sources have similar levels of expertise as those of primary sources. Secondary sources may contain original information as authors synthesize and analyze findings from primary sources. Secondary sources are usually peer reviewed.
A nurse uses a care map to guide nursing interventions for patients with COPD. This is an example of using a. evidence-based practice. b. practice patterns. c. practice styles. d. standards of care.
D A standard of care is a norm according to which quality of care is judged and includes guidelines, critical paths, and care maps. Evidence-based practice includes clinical guidelines, critical paths, and standards of care. A practice pattern is a concept representing the variation in what type of care is provided. A practice style represents variation in how care is provided.
To analyze a body of literature in a literature review, the reviewer will a. describe the findings of each study in the literature review. b. list the studies and itemize the findings of each one. c. make value judgments about the credibility of each study. d. synthesize and summarize findings from various studies.
D Analysis requires synthesis and summarization of findings of the studies listed and an ability to manipulate the information by the reviewer. It is not enough to merely describe the findings or to list the information in each one. Making value judgments is part of the appraisal process.
In outcomes research, a magnet-designated hospital is an example of which type of variable? a. Dependent b. Intervention c. Outcome d. Structural
D Magnet designation indicates certain standards of structure including shared governance, implementation of nursing practice, and autonomy. A dependent variable is one that is affected by manipulation of another variable. An intervention variable is one that is manipulated to examine the effects of this manipulation on a dependent variable. An outcome variable is one that is linked to patient care.
What is the key construct in Donabedian's theory of outcomes research? a. Efficiency of healthcare delivery b. Healthy outcomes c. Professional accountability d. Quality of care
D Quality of care is the overriding construct of Donabedian's theory of outcomes research. Efficiency, healthy outcomes, and professional accountability all may be examined during outcomes research, but none of these is the key construct.
When reviewing articles in a peer-reviewed publication, the reader is assured that the articles are a. landmark studies. b. primary sources. c. seminal studies. d. trustworthy sources.
D Research reports detailing study events, including results and analysis of findings included in refereed professional journals, are considered one of the most credible types of evidence and are typically considered one of the most useful sources for researchers as they conduct a literature review for a current study. Articles found in refereed journals have been evaluated in an anonymous process by unbiased reviewers and received favorable review, not only for the integrity of the research itself, but because the topic of interest has been deemed significant to the profession. Landmark studies, primary sources, and seminal studies are included in peer-reviewed literature, but may also appear in literature that is not peer reviewed.
Which is true about quality of sources when critically appraising a literature review? a. A secondary source is written by the person who originated or is responsible for generating the ideas published. b. Authors of primary sources paraphrase the works of researchers and theorists and present their interpretations of what was written by the secondary author. c. A primary source summarizes or quotes content from secondary sources. d. Secondary sources are used only if primary sources cannot be located.
D Secondary sources are used only if primary sources cannot be located, or the secondary source provides creative ideas or a unique organization of information not found in a primary source. A primary source is written by the person who originated or is responsible for generating the ideas published. Authors of secondary sources paraphrase the works of researchers and theorists and present their interpretations of what was written by the primary author. A secondary source summarizes or quotes content from primary sources.
A nurse researcher reviews several articles about coping skills among parents of children with chronic illness and notes that half of the studies involved single-parent families. The researcher decides to examine whether coping skills differ in single-parent versus dual-parent households. The researcher is engaging in a. analyzing. b. appraising. c. evaluating. d. synthesizing.
D Synthesis of sources involves thinking deeply about what has been found and identifying the main themes of the information. In this case, the reviewer has discovered a variable that may affect the outcome of the studies. Analysis requires manipulation of what is found, literally making it the author's own. Appraisal involves identifying relevant content and determining the credibility or validity of the information. Evaluation involves reviewing the literature content and determining its relevance to the topic.
The National Quality Forum was established in 1999 for which purpose? a. To identify and develop nursing-sensitive quality measures b. To support state and health system efforts to implement and evaluate medical liability reform models c. To allow the AHRQ to expand its work supporting comparative effectiveness research d. To set standards for healthcare performance measures
D The National Quality Forum sets standards for healthcare performance measures. The NDNQI identifies and develops nursing-sensitive quality measures. The AHRQ supports state and health system efforts to implement and evaluate medical liability reform models. The ARRA allows the AHRQ to expand its work supporting comparative effectiveness research.
Which organization includes nursing-sensitive outcomes measures in its performance measurement portfolio? a. Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality b. Department of Health and Human Services c. National Guideline Clearinghouse d. National Quality Forum
D The National Quality Forum was created as a national standard-setting organization for healthcare performance measures and includes nursing-sensitive measures in its portfolio. The Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality supports research designed to improve the outcomes and quality of health care. The Department of Health and Human Services includes the Agency of Healthcare Research and Design. The National Guideline Clearinghouse is a resource for evidence-based guidelines.
When appraising a literature review, one aspect of determining the breadth of the review is a. whether the review provides direction for the proposed study. b. the number and percentages of sources from the past 5 to 10 years. c. whether landmark or seminal studies have been used. d. the disciplines of the study authors and journals cited in the review.
D When assessing the breadth of a literature review, the reviewer should identify the disciplines of the authors cited and the journals in which they published their studies. An assessment of whether the literature review provides direction for the study does not specifically evaluate the breadth of the literature review. The currency of the literature review is evaluated by noting the number of sources more than 5 to 10 years old as well as whether landmark or seminal studies are cited.
Which of the following accurately describes the purpose of a mixed-methods study? a. To capitalize on the weaknesses of numbers and words to answer different components or stages of a research question b. To capitalize on the weaknesses of numbers and words to answer similar components or stages of a research question c. To capitalize on the strengths of numbers and words to answer similar components or stages of a research question d. To capitalize on the strengths of numbers and words to answer different components or stages of a research question
D Mixed-methods studies allow researchers to capitalize on the strengths of numbers and words to answer different components or stages of a research question. All other statements are incorrect.
After a literature search has yielded a list of articles, an efficient way to identify relevant studies during a literature search is to review a. an electronic database search history. b. only experimental studies. c. reference lists in other studies. d. study abstracts.
D The abstract provides pertinent information about the article in a condensed, easy to peruse format so that the researcher can determine whether the article is pertinent to the topic. The electronic database search history lists only articles sear ched for but does not yield information about whether or not they are relevant. Experimental studies are not always relevant to a particular study, and other types of studies may be relevant. Reference lists in other studies may give information about other articles to review, but do not give information about the content of these articles.
In critically appraising a mixed-methods design study, the nurse researcher may ask "Was the need to use mixed methods established?" and "Did the mixed-methods strategy fulfill the purpose or purposes of the study." What quality standard criterion is the researcher using? a. Significance b. Expertise c. Methods d. Appropriateness
D The appropriateness criterion addresses whether the design was appropriate for the study's purpose, beginning with the researchers establishing a need to use mixed methods. The significance criterion addresses if the relevance and significance of the research question was described. The expertise criterion addresses if the researcher or research team possess the necessary skills and experience to implement the study. The methods criterion addresses the timing, data collection and analysis, interpretation, and integration of findings; as well as, describing reliability and validity of quantitative methods, trustworthiness, dependability, and credibility of qualitative methods, and protection of human subjects in the study.
What is the purpose of a limited research review? a. To allow the reader to become familiar with the research problem b. To develop an initial pilot study prior to a more in-depth study c. To direct the planning and execution of a study d. To identify studies published after a study is performed
D A limited research review is often conducted after an initial literature review to describe any studies performed after the study has been performed. The results of both the original literature review and the limited literature review are included in the report. A full literature review allows the reader to become familiar with the research problem and is performed prior to a pilot or a full study. The full literature review directs the planning and execution of the study.
