Books Required Nursing Research: Studying A Study & Testing A Test, 6 th Edition, Reading Evidence – Based Health Research. Author: Richard K. Riegelman, MD, MPH, PhD; Michael L. Rinke, MD, PhD. ISBN: 978-0-7817-7426-0 Publisher: Wolters Kluwer / Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, (2013) Week 3 Assignment: Write a 500-word paper using APA Format Assignment: A decision-making investigation often requires the investigator to do the following. List these FOUR investigations from your textbook and explain each one.
Title: A Decision-Making Investigation: Exploring Key Components
Introduction
In the realm of nursing research, decision-making investigations play a crucial role in advancing evidence-based practice. These investigations involve a comprehensive examination of various factors to arrive at sound decisions. Richard K. Riegelman and Michael L. Rinke in their book “Nursing Research: Studying A Study & Testing A Test” provide valuable insights into four key investigations that are pertinent to decision-making in the field of healthcare. This paper aims to discuss these investigations in detail and highlight their significance.
Investigation 1: Studying A Study
Studying a study involves a critical evaluation of the literature on a specific research topic. It encompasses the analysis of published studies, research articles, and scholarly papers to identify gaps, inconsistencies, and limitations in the existing body of knowledge. This investigation aids in determining the validity and reliability of previous findings and identifies areas for further research.
Researchers conducting a decision-making investigation need to thoroughly scrutinize the methodology employed in the study, including the study design, sample size, data collection methods, and statistical analysis. Moreover, they need to assess the credibility and bias of the authors, considering their affiliations, potential conflicts of interest, and funding sources.
By scrutinizing the selected study, researchers can determine the applicability and generalizability of its findings to their own research question or clinical practice. This investigation allows for an informed decision-making process by ensuring evidence-based practice and reducing the risk of basing decisions on flawed or biased research.
Investigation 2: Testing A Test
Testing a test involves the examination and evaluation of an assessment tool or instrument used in healthcare research. This investigation aims to determine the reliability and validity of the test in measuring the intended variables accurately and consistently. Researchers engage in this investigation to assess the feasibility of using a particular test and its appropriateness for their specific research objectives.
To conduct this investigation effectively, researchers need to assess the psychometric properties of the test, including its reliability, validity, and responsiveness. They should examine the test’s internal consistency, test-retest reliability, inter-rater reliability, and concurrent or predictive validity. By evaluating these aspects, researchers can ensure that the test measures what it claims to measure and produces consistent and reliable results.
Testing a test is essential in decision-making investigations as it lays the foundation for using valid and reliable assessment tools in research and clinical practice. By employing sound tests, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions based on accurate measurements and minimize the risk of errors or misinterpretation of the results.
Investigation 3: Reading Evidence-Based Health Research
Reading evidence-based health research involves the critical appraisal of research studies to determine their relevance, quality, and applicability to clinical practice. This investigation aims to synthesize and interpret research findings, considering their significance in informing healthcare decision-making.
Researchers engaged in this investigation need to assess the study’s research design, sample characteristics, statistical analysis, and the strength of evidence presented. They evaluate the internal and external validity of the research, examining factors such as selection bias, confounding variables, and generalizability of the findings to the target population.
By reading evidence-based health research, researchers can assess the strength and applicability of the evidence presented to their specific research question or clinical situation. This investigation facilitates an informed decision-making process by enabling healthcare professionals to incorporate the most relevant and high-quality evidence into their practice.
Investigation 4: Critiquing A Research Proposal
Critiquing a research proposal involves a comprehensive evaluation of a proposed research study. This investigation focuses on identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the research plan, including the research question, study design, data collection methods, and ethical considerations.
Researchers undertaking this investigation need to assess the clarity and feasibility of the research objectives, the appropriateness of the selected research design, and the suitability of the proposed data collection methods. They also evaluate the ethical considerations, ensuring that the proposed study complies with ethical guidelines and protects the rights and well-being of study participants.
By critiquing a research proposal, researchers can provide valuable feedback and recommendations for improving the proposed study. This investigation contributes to the refinement of research ideas and the enhancement of the overall quality of scientific inquiry, leading to better decision-making in healthcare.
Conclusion
Decision-making investigations in nursing research involve critical appraisal, evaluation, and synthesis of various components to arrive at informed decisions. Studying a study, testing a test, reading evidence-based health research, and critiquing a research proposal are four essential investigations described by Riegelman and Rinke. These investigations facilitate evidence-based practice, strengthen the validity and reliability of research findings, and contribute to improving healthcare decision-making. By engaging in these investigations, researchers can ensure the incorporation of high-quality evidence into clinical practice and foster advancements in the field of nursing.