Evaluating the Quality of Research for Fundamentals of Nursing: A Guide for Nurse Researchers

Accompanying the Examination of Research Articles in Nursing

Introduction

As a nurse practitioner or nursing student, continuously staying updated with research articles relevant to your field is essential to improving patient care and advancing the nursing discipline. It is crucial to know how to critically evaluate the research you read and determine its quality. This guide provides insights into different organizations that serve as valuable resources for evidence-based practice (EBP) and highlights a few key areas that you need to consider when evaluating research articles.

Key Organizations for Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing

Navigating the world of research can be challenging. This section introduces you to some key organizations that can help you determine the quality of the research you encounter:

USPSTF (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force)

The USPSTF offers a rating system for research studies based on the strength of the evidence presented. This is particularly useful when a nurse is reviewing research articles to evaluate the quality of the studies. It serves as a valuable tool for decision-making and improving clinical practices.

NGC (National Guideline Clearinghouse)

NGC provides a public resource for clinical practice guidelines. These guidelines help nurses understand the best practices in their field and can be instrumental in making informed decisions regarding patient care.

NQF (National Quality Forum)

NQF aims to establish national priorities and goals to achieve healthcare that is safe, effective, patient-centered, timely, efficient, and equitable. It provides a framework for evaluating the quality of research and its impact on patient care.

AHRQ (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality)

The AHRQ promotes the use of evidence-based practice. It also sponsors the USPSTF, enhancing its credibility and influence in promoting research-based standards in healthcare.

Questions for Nurse Researchers

Here are a few questions and answers to help nurse researchers evaluate the quality of research and the effectiveness of evidence-based practices:

Question 1

A nurse is reviewing research articles to make changes in practice in a medical-surgical unit. To evaluate the quality of the research performed, which source should be recommended?

Correct Answer: USPSTF

Rationale 1: The USPSTF provides a rating system for the research studies. Studies are rated based on the strength and evidence presented.

Question 2

The nursing faculty would evaluate which statement made by a research student as providing evidence that the student understands the mission of the ACE Center?

Correct Answer: The ACE Center promotes the efforts of evidence-based nursing practice through education research and development.

Rationale 3: The ACE Center's ultimate goal is to translate research-based findings into clinical actions that will improve healthcare through the evaluation of the impact of evidence-based practice.

Question 3

A nurse seeking the definition of evidence-based practice (EBP) as it applies to nursing would review which literature?

Correct Answer: The website of Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI)

Rationale 3: STTI defined EBP in a way that is specific to nursing.

Question 4

Regarding the use of systematic reviews of research studies, which statements should be included in a presentation?

Correct Answer: The systematic review will involve examining numerous studies relating to a single topical area, and the use of a systematic review will integrate information from a group of original research studies and look at the studies as a whole.

Rationale 3: While focusing on a single area of interest, a systematic review can provide a summary of many studies at once.

Conclusion

Understanding and applying evidence-based practice is crucial in nursing. By utilizing resources such as the USPSTF, NGC, NQF, AHRQ, and the ACE Center, nurse researchers can ensure that their practice is informed by the best available evidence. This commitment to evidence-based practice not only enhances the quality of patient care but also advances the nursing profession as a whole.

As nurse researchers, it is essential to stay informed and continuously seek out high-quality research that can inform and improve our clinical practices. By doing so, we can contribute to safer, more effective, and equitable healthcare systems.