Qualitative Study Nursing

Research is defined by Parahoo (2006, p. 472) as “the study of phenomena by the rigorous and systematic collection and analysis of data”. Nursing research is necessary as up-to-date knowledge is vital for appropriate nursing and midwifery decision making. In order to improve upon health outcomes and provide effective care, research should inform best practice and provide an evidence base with which to underpin nursing care.

The two studies to be analysed in this assignment are, ‘Final-year student nurses’ perceptions of role transition’ (Doody et al., 2012) and ‘Surviving, not thriving: a qualitative study of newly qualified midwives’ experience of their transition to practice’ (Fenwick et al., 2012). Both these papers explore the perceptions
(2012), in Fenwick et al’s. (2012) qualitative study, generalisation was different (Parahoo, 2006). The aim of a qualitative study is not necessarily to be generalisable but rather to provide a deep insight into the issue under study. This can be seen as a limitation as the evidence generated cannot always be applicable to the practice of others. However, this lack of generalisation does not mean that the findings of qualitative studies are not of value, by providing sufficiently descriptive information; researchers can promote the transferability of their study (Polit and Beck, 2014). Goetz and LeCompte (1984, cited by Parahoo 2006, p. 276) suggest that “the components of a study…must be sufficiently well described and defined in order for other researchers to use the results of the study as a basis for comparison”. The transferability of a qualitative study is akin to the generalisation of a quantitative study. Transferability is the extent to which the findings of a qualitative study can be applicable to different settings. By ensuring the transferability of a study, researchers can increase the validity and reliability of their findings (Polit and Beck, 2014). By using the Lincoln and Guba’s (1985, cited by Polit and Beck, 2014, p. 322) Framework of Quality Criteria, researchers can establish the trustworthiness of their study. This framework is similar to the criteria used to establish generalisability in
Fundamental to ethical research is respect for the autonomy of research participants. Autonomy refers to the right of an individual to make decisions about those things that affect them. In the context of research, participants should have the opportunity to make an informed decision about whether to participant in research or not. For consent to be valid it should be informed, it should be voluntary and the person giving consent should have the capacity to give that consent (Beauchamp and Childress,