Importance of research in nursing | CHAPTER-1 | Research Methodology

Importance of research in nursing – In its most common sense, methodology is the study of research methods. However, the term can also refer to the methods themselves or to the philosophical discussion of associated background assumptions. A method is a structured procedure for bringing about a certain goal, like acquiring knowledge or verifying knowledge claims. This normally involves various steps, like choosing a sample, collecting data from this sample, and interpreting the data. The study of methods concerns a detailed description and analysis of these processes. It includes evaluative aspects by comparing different methods.

In this way, their benefits and drawbacks are evaluated, as well as the research goals for which they may be used. These descriptions and evaluations are predicated on philosophical background assumptions; examples include how to conceptualize the phenomena under study and what constitutes evidence in favor of or against them. In its broadest sense, methodology encompasses the discussion of these more abstract issues.

Importance of research in nursing

• Research is an important tool for the continual development of a relevant body of knowledge in nursing.
• Research generates information from nursing investigations that help define the unique role of nursing as a profession. Professional accountability of nurses to their clients is demonstrated when nurses incorporate research evidence into their clinical decisions.
• Research facilitates evaluation of the efficacy of nurses; a practice which may articulate their role in the delivery of health services.
• Research may allow nurses to make more informed decisions as each phase of the nursing process is clarified through research.
• Understand a particular nursing situation about which little is known,
• Assess the need for an intervention,
• Identify factors that must be considered in planning nursing care,
• Predict the probable outcomes of certain nursing decisions,
• Control the occurrence of undesired outcomes,
• Provide advice to enhance client health, and
• Initiate activities to promote appropriate client behavior.

(Ref-Training Manual for Nurses Orientation Program by NMES)

Importance/Need for Nursing Research

The importance/need for nursing research include the following:

1. Decision making

2. Scientific basis for practice

3. Improve quality of client care

4. Professional development

5. Fill the gap between knowledge and practice

6. Foster accountability, commitment and professionalism

7. Generates, refines, enlarges nursing knowledge

8. Improves quality of nursing education

FOR EQ

(Ref by- Nirmala V/Research Methodology in Nursing/1/7 and handout)

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• Research Methodology | Diploma in Nursing Science and Midwifery