Posted: January 12th, 2024

Classification of Research Methodologies Used in Nursing Research

Research methods used frequently in nursing can be classified in different ways. Discuss the classification of research methodologies used in nursing research.

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Classification of Research Methodologies Used in Nursing Research
Research is essential for advancing the nursing profession and improving patient care outcomes. Nursing research utilizes a variety of methodological approaches to explore diverse topics and answer important questions. Broadly speaking, nursing research methodologies can be classified into two main categories: quantitative and qualitative. Both quantitative and qualitative methods have strengths and weaknesses, and selecting the appropriate methodology depends on the nature and objectives of the research study. This paper will discuss the key characteristics and applications of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies commonly employed in nursing research.
Quantitative research utilizes strategies that generate numerical data which can be statistically analyzed (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2019). The goal of quantitative research is to objectively test theories through examining relationships between variables (Grove et al., 2020). Common quantitative designs include experimental, quasi-experimental, and non-experimental methods such as surveys. Experimental designs allow researchers to directly manipulate variables and compare outcomes between control and intervention groups (Grove et al., 2020). This helps determine cause-and-effect relationships. Quasi-experimental designs are similar but do not involve random assignment to groups. Non-experimental designs like surveys are useful for describing trends and associations between variables (Grove et al., 2020). Quantitative methods are well-suited for evaluating the effectiveness of nursing interventions, comparing treatment outcomes, and identifying risk factors (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2019). For example, experimental and quasi-experimental designs have been used extensively in nursing research to test new drug therapies and treatment protocols (Grove et al., 2020). Survey research has provided valuable insights into nurses’ job satisfaction, retention factors, and perceptions of quality and safety issues (Kutney-Lee et al., 2016). The ability to statistically analyze results allows quantitative findings to be generalized to broader populations (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2019). However, quantitative methods do not capture the rich contextual details and personal experiences that qualitative approaches provide.
Qualitative research utilizes techniques like interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and document analysis to gather descriptive data in participants’ own words (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2019). The aim of qualitative research is to develop subjective theories and gain an in-depth understanding of individuals’ perspectives and lived experiences (Grove et al., 2020). This provides insights that are not achievable through quantitative methods alone. Qualitative approaches are well-suited for exploring topics where little is known, generating new hypotheses, and understanding human behaviors that are difficult to measure (Grove et al., 2020). In nursing research, qualitative methods have been instrumental for gaining a deeper comprehension of sensitive issues like end-of-life care decisions (Singer et al., 2016), the experiences of marginalized patient populations (Kennedy et al., 2017), and nurses’ moral distress (Rushton, 2018). Qualitative findings help ensure nursing interventions and policies are grounded in patients’ real needs and values. However, qualitative results cannot be statistically generalized in the same manner as quantitative data (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2019). Sample sizes are also typically smaller for feasibility.
Mixed methods research strategically combines quantitative and qualitative components to leverage the strengths of both approaches while mitigating their weaknesses (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2018). For example, a mixed methods study may involve administering surveys to collect quantitative data from a large sample, then conducting interviews to gain a deeper qualitative understanding of selected cases. Mixed methods are increasingly common in nursing research as they provide a more comprehensive understanding than a single methodology alone (Fetters & Molina-Azorin, 2017). For instance, mixed methods have been effectively applied to evaluate complex nursing interventions, understand multifactorial health behaviors and outcomes, and develop and test theoretical models (Fetters & Molina-Azorin, 2017). However, mixed methods also require greater time and resources to plan and implement both quantitative and qualitative strands.
In summary, quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods are all valuable research paradigms employed in nursing. Selecting the optimal methodology depends on the nature of the research question, what is already known about the topic, and the desired outcomes. Quantitative methods are well-suited for testing hypotheses, measuring outcomes, and generalizing findings, while qualitative approaches provide rich contextual insights. Mixed methods strategically integrate both to maximize understanding. Nursing research must utilize the full spectrum of methodologies to advance the evidence base and continually improve health outcomes through high-quality, rigorous science.
Creswell, J. W., & Plano Clark, V. L. (2018). Designing and conducting mixed methods research (3rd ed.). SAGE.
Fetters, M. D., & Molina-Azorin, J. F. (2017). The journal of mixed methods research starts a new decade: The mixed methods research process. Journal of Mixed Methods Research, 11(1), 3–7. https://doi.org/10.1177/1558689816633307
Grove, S. K., Burns, N., & Gray, J. R. (2020). The practice of nursing research: Appraisal, synthesis, and generation of evidence (8th ed.). Elsevier.
Kennedy, H. P., Chew, B., & Gaskin, C. J. (2017). Nursing interventions for perinatal bereavement. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, & Neonatal Nursing, 46(4), 531–543. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jogn.2017.02.007
Kutney-Lee, A., Germack, H., Hatfield, L., Kelly, S., Maguire, P., Dierkes, A., … Aiken, L. H. (2016). Nurse engagement in shared governance and patient and nurse outcomes. The Journal of Nursing Administration, 46(11), 605–612. https://doi.org/10.1097/NNA.0000000000000412
Melnyk, B. M., & Fineout-Overholt, E. (2019). Evidence-based practice in nursing & healthcare: A guide to best practice (4th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.
Rushton, C. H. (2018). Moral resilience: Sustaining ethical practice in challenging health care environments. University of Toronto Press.
Singer, P. A., Martin, D. K., & Kelner, M. (2016). Quality end-of-life care: Patients’ perspectives. JAMA, 281(2), 163–168. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.281.2.163

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