A research hypothesis is a statement about a specific population and can predict the direction and nature of a study

A research hypothesis is a statement about a specific population and can predict the direction and nature of a study

Nursing research is defined as “a scientific process that validates and refines existing knowledge and generates new knowledge that directly and indirectly influences the delivery of evidence-based nursing” (Grove, 2017). Depending upon the question being investigated, quantitative and qualitative methods are used to conduct research (Rutberg & Bouikidis, 2018). In quantitative research, a formal & systematic approach is used to obtain exact numerical data in the investigation of a question (Grove, 2017). Qualitative research on the other hand takes a more in-depth, holistic and naturalistic approach to investing the question (Rutberg & Bouikidis, 2018). As the quantitative and qualitative methodologies differ, they are comparable in some ways. Both methods of research conduct needs the expertise of the researcher, involves implementation and ultimately yields results that contribute to enhancing the knowledge base of and for nursing practice (Grove, 2017).

Contrasting between the two methodologies; quantitative methods test theories while qualitative methods generate theory (Salvador, 2016). During the course of research conduction, quantitative methods investigate the question with the use of surveys, experiments, close-ended questions to obtain exact numerical data; whereas qualitative methods use narratives, case studies and open-ended format questioning to gather data which is then analyzed (Rutberg & Bouikidis, 2018). Quantitative methodology requires the researcher to state a hypothesis of the potential outcome of the study where this is not typical using qualitative research methods (Salvador, 2017). The analysis of the results obtained from quantitative research is statistical based on numerical data obtained, whereas qualitative research analysis is text-based from observations or interviews (Grove, 2017).
 

Florence Nightingale is an historical nurse theorist of the 19thcentury that made significant contributions to the nursing field, specifically nursing research and she is known as the first nurse researcher. Nursing research began with Nightingale during the Crimean War. During the Crimean War, Nightingale successfully transformed the Barracks Hospital. When she first arrived at the hospital, she discovered deplorable conditions in which the injured soldiers were living in, she believed these conditions contributed to the high rate of disease and mortality here. Nightingale improved the overall environment of the hospital which in turn improved the health of the injured soldiers and saved many lives (Cherry & Jacob, 2016). Her contribution towards research was reflected in lowering the mortality and morbidity rate of the injured and sick during the war (Shetty, 2016). She developed the first pie chart, her pie chart showed the various causes of death during the Crimean War, the evidence revealed disease as the main cause of mortality. She believed that a thorough record keeping database which contained patient medical information should be implemented in all hospitals (Aravind & Chung, 2010). Nightingale is credited with introducing principles of infection control, developing a system for transcribing physician orders, and developing a procedure to maintain patient records; these are all still utilized today (Cherry & Jacob, 2016).

Nightingale also supervised the modernization of nursing, advised governments on Army health reform, organized sanitary improvements in Britain and India, and inspired hospital design. She accomplished these things by gathering necessary evidence, using thorough observation, and utilizing record keeping and statistical analysis to substantiate her work in these advances (Aravind & Chung, 2010).
“Nightingale’s landmark study of maternal mortality from puerperal fever is a formidable example of evidence-based decision making in healthcare” (Shetty, 2016, p. 147). Her research approaches were systematic, and she was driven to change existing practices using the statistics she collected. The data collected by Nightingale was used to reform public laws and develop the first model for the systematic collection of hospital data using a uniform classification of diseases and operations, which today is known as ICD codes. She collected and analyzed data regarding her workplace environment to assist in implementing appropriate nursing interventions. Her desire to improve healthcare conditions resulted in improved health of patients and helped her to create and utilize theoretical frameworks in the nursing profession. Nightingale’s research aided in developing nursing care standards which are still used today (Shetty, 2016).
 

Objectives are used in both qualitative and quantitative articles.  The concept of objectives in both types of research are similar in structure.  An objective is used to state or clarify a goal developed from a research problem and purpose.  Both quantitative and qualitative research objectives are based upon the problems identified in the purpose statement and is used to examine the same population (Gray et al., 2017).  Qualitative research objectives tend to be broader rather than focusing on a specific variable as with quantitative.

A research question is a statement that is concise and includes a study’s principle concepts.  In quantitative research, questions are precise and descriptive and avoid words that would indicate a yes or no answer, such as “does” or “do” (Doody & Bailey, 2016).  Qualitative research questions, if used, are more broad spectrum and are more adaptable as compared to quantitative.  Many qualitative research studies do not include a research question and when a question is included, it is based from an experience, feeling, or perspective.  Quantitative research questions are often a revised purpose statement with a query.
A research hypothesis is a statement about a specific population and can predict the direction and nature of a study (Connelly, 2015).  Hypotheses are only used in quantitative research as a prediction of variable outcomes and are a clear statement of what the research tends to prove or disapprove.  Hypothesis are categorized as simple, complex, null, nondirectional, or directional and exist for the purpose of testing them.  After testing the hypothesis, data gathered from research is used to provide a conclusion or generalization.
 
 

 

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