05/07/2017–B.SC-NURSING REAERCH-PAPER DONE-UPLOAD NO.3

SECTION:1

Q-1 Define Applied Research. Write Purposes of Nursing Research. 10

Definition of Applied Research

• Applied research is defined as a type of scientific investigation that is conducted to solve real-world problems, improve existing practices, or develop practical solutions that can be directly applied to clinical settings, nursing care, public health, or health education.
• It is problem-oriented, action-focused, and outcome-based, meaning that it is not done just to gain knowledge, but to apply that knowledge to improve patient care, healthcare systems, or nursing interventions.
• In nursing, applied research is often used to evaluate nursing procedures, implement new interventions, improve quality of care, and develop evidence-based practices that enhance patient outcomes.
• Example : A study to determine the effectiveness of oral care protocols in reducing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in ICU patients is an example of applied research.
• Below are the major purposes of conducting nursing research, described in full detail :

1. To Improve Nursing Practice

• It is the primary purpose of nursing research to generate evidence that helps nurses refine, improve, and standardize nursing procedures, clinical skills, and bedside practices.
• It assists in discovering the best ways to deliver nursing care in various healthcare settings including hospitals, clinics, homes, and communities.
• Research findings lead to practice guidelines and protocols that ensure safety, consistency, and quality in nursing care.

2. To Promote Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)

• Nursing research is used to establish scientific foundations for decision-making in patient care, known as evidence-based practice.
• It allows nurses to base their clinical actions on data and tested interventions rather than relying on routine, tradition, or untested beliefs.
• EBP minimizes errors and enhances patient-centered and individualized care by applying current best evidence.

3. To Solve Clinical Problems

• Nursing research helps to identify and resolve real-time problems or challenges faced by nurses and patients in the clinical setting.
• It provides rational and effective solutions to issues such as medication errors, patient falls, infection control, pain management, and wound care.
• Through problem-focused research, nurses can implement corrective actions and improve patient safety.

4. To Develop and Validate Nursing Theories

• Nursing research supports the development, testing, and validation of nursing theories and conceptual models which form the backbone of the nursing discipline.
• These theories explain the relationship between nursing actions and patient responses, and guide nurses in making informed clinical decisions.
• Research also helps in revising or refining outdated theories to suit the present healthcare environment.

5. To Improve Patient Outcomes

• Nursing research is aimed at improving various patient outcomes such as recovery rate, symptom management, quality of life, mental well-being, and satisfaction.
• By applying research-based nursing interventions, nurses can reduce hospital-acquired infections, medication side effects, and complications.
• The ultimate goal is to ensure that patients receive the most effective, safe, and compassionate care.

6. To Assist in Health Policy and Program Development

• Nursing research provides statistical and field-based evidence that helps governments and health organizations design effective health programs, awareness campaigns, and care models.
• It assists policymakers in formulating nursing protocols, staffing norms, disease control strategies, and national health goals.
• Community-based nursing research is vital for planning preventive and promotive healthcare interventions.

7. To Guide Nursing Education

• Research in nursing education helps in evaluating teaching methods, curriculum planning, clinical training models, and student performance.
• It supports the integration of modern technology and simulation-based learning in nursing education.
• Research findings ensure that nursing students are trained using the most up-to-date, effective, and scientifically sound strategies.

8. To Enhance Nursing Administration and Management

• Nursing research helps in studying and improving organizational policies, workload management, shift patterns, and leadership practices.
• It supports administrators in making decisions about nurse-patient ratios, documentation systems, staff performance, and job satisfaction.
• Efficient nursing administration results in better team coordination, increased productivity, and reduced burnout.

9. To Reduce Healthcare Costs

• Nursing research evaluates cost-effectiveness of procedures and interventions to ensure that care is delivered without unnecessary expenses.
• By eliminating ineffective or outdated practices, it helps reduce the overall burden on the healthcare system.
• Cost-saving strategies can include early discharge planning, community-based follow-up, and preventive education programs.

10. To Empower Nurses and Strengthen the Profession

• Research enables nurses to act as innovators, leaders, and contributors in interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
• It encourages a culture of critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and lifelong learning among nurses.
• Engaging in research builds professional confidence and recognition, and positions nursing as an independent and respected scientific discipline.

OR

Q-1 Write about Ethics in Nursing Research. 10

Introduction

• Ethics in nursing research is defined as the application of moral values, codes of conduct, and professional standards that guide how nursing research should be planned, conducted, reported, and monitored in order to protect the dignity, rights, safety, and well-being of human participants involved in the research process.
• It is essential because most nursing research involves direct or indirect participation of human subjects who may be vulnerable due to illness, age, or lack of understanding, and therefore require ethical safeguards to prevent harm or exploitation.

Need and Importance of Ethics in Nursing Research

• It is necessary to protect participants from physical, emotional, or psychological harm during data collection or experimentation.
• It is important to promote scientific integrity, transparency, and credibility in nursing research findings.
• It is essential to safeguard the fundamental rights such as privacy, autonomy, and confidentiality of research subjects.
• It is useful in ensuring that the research process is fair, socially responsible, and beneficial to the community or society.
• It is required to comply with legal regulations and institutional ethical committee standards before initiating any study.

Core Ethical Principles in Nursing Research

1. Respect for Autonomy

• It is the participant’s right to make voluntary and informed decisions about participation.
• It is important that no participant is forced, deceived, or misled during the consent process.
• It is essential that special attention is given to participants with limited decision-making capacity, such as mentally challenged individuals.
• The researcher should also respect cultural and religious beliefs that may influence decision-making.

2. Beneficence

• It is the ethical obligation to design research that promotes the health and well-being of individuals or society.
• It is required to maximize the benefits while conducting the study in the safest way possible.
• It is important to identify direct and indirect benefits to both participants and the community.
• The researcher should consider whether the knowledge gained will contribute positively to nursing science or public health.

3. Non-Maleficence

• It is the researcher’s duty to prevent, minimize, and report any harm that occurs during the study.
• It is required to conduct a risk-benefit analysis before research begins.
• It is necessary to monitor participants throughout the study for any signs of distress or harm.
• Researchers should have an emergency plan or support system in place in case any adverse event occurs.

4. Justice

• It is the obligation to ensure fair selection of participants without discrimination.
• It is important to distribute research burdens and benefits equitably.
• No group should be over-used or excluded without justified scientific reason.
• Incentives or compensations must not become a form of coercion or undue influence.

Major Ethical Requirements in Nursing Research

1. Informed Consent

• It must include all relevant information like study duration, procedures, side effects, and withdrawal rights.
• It should be provided in the participant’s own language and literacy level.
• Researchers must answer questions honestly before obtaining consent.
• Consent forms should be signed, dated, and witnessed, and a copy should be given to participants.

2. Confidentiality and Privacy

• Researchers must ensure that data is stored securely—digitally (password-protected) or physically (locked cabinets).
• Data should be used only for the purposes described in the study protocol.
• If video or audio recordings are used, explicit consent must be taken for their use.
• Identity of participants should be concealed in publications, presentations, and reports.

3. Right to Withdraw

• Participants must be clearly informed that withdrawal will not affect their medical care or benefits.
• Researchers must respect the decision immediately without questioning or persuading them to stay.
• Participants must not suffer any penalty, stigma, or loss of compensation due to withdrawal.

4. Ethics Committee Approval (IEC/IRB)

• The research must follow national and institutional ethical guidelines such as ICMR (India), Nuremberg Code, and Helsinki Declaration.
• Researchers must submit a detailed protocol including objectives, methods, risks, benefits, and consent form for review.
• Approval must be documented and attached with the research before any participant is enrolled.
• Any major change in protocol after approval must be re-submitted to the ethics board.

5. Scientific Honesty and Integrity

• All research findings must be reported truthfully, whether positive or negative.
• Researchers must avoid practices like plagiarism, falsification, selective reporting, or ghostwriting.
• Proper acknowledgment must be given to collaborators, funding sources, and institutions.
• Any conflict of interest (financial, institutional) must be disclosed clearly.

6. Protection of Vulnerable Groups

• Special provisions must be made for participants who are legally or physically unable to give consent (e.g., minors, unconscious patients).
• Parental or guardian consent should be taken along with assent (verbal approval) from minors.
• Ethics review must justify inclusion of vulnerable participants and ensure minimum risk.
• Monitoring should be more frequent and sensitive for these participants.

Nursing Responsibilities in Maintaining Ethics in Research

• It is the nurse’s responsibility to ensure that the research protocol strictly follows ethical principles such as autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice throughout the study.
• It is essential for the nurse to obtain valid, voluntary, and informed consent from all participants by clearly explaining the nature, purpose, potential risks, and benefits of the research in a language they understand.
• It is the duty of the nurse to protect the confidentiality and privacy of participants by ensuring that all personal information and health records are kept secure, anonymous, and used only for research purposes.
• It is important for the nurse to respect the right of the participant to withdraw from the study at any time, without pressure, penalty, or loss of benefits, and to document any withdrawal appropriately.
• The nurse must take responsibility for reporting any adverse events, discomfort, or harm that occurs to a participant during the research to the research guide or ethics committee immediately.
• The nurse must ensure that the research setting is safe, respectful, and non-threatening, especially when vulnerable groups such as children, elderly, mentally ill, or terminally ill patients are involved.
• The nurse must verify that the research instruments and tools used for data collection (like questionnaires or observation forms) are ethically appropriate, non-invasive, and respectful of the participant’s dignity.
• The nurse has to refrain from any form of coercion or inducement, and must not force or bribe participants to take part in the study against their will or better judgment.
• It is necessary for the nurse to attend research methodology and ethical training programs, workshops, and updates on institutional or national research ethics guidelines to stay informed and compliant.
• The nurse should accurately and honestly record, analyze, and report all data, and avoid any form of misconduct such as data fabrication, falsification, or plagiarism.
• The nurse must ensure that all research activities are conducted only after ethical clearance from the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) or Institutional Review Board (IRB) is obtained and documented.
• It is the nurse’s responsibility to provide post-research support, such as health education or referrals, if any participant is found to have a health problem during data collection.
• The nurse must ensure that participants are debriefed after the study, especially in psychological or behavioral research, where explaining the purpose can reduce anxiety and confusion.
• The nurse should help in disseminating findings to participants and the public when appropriate, especially if the results can benefit them in terms of health or well-being.
• The nurse must act as an advocate for participant rights, speaking up if they witness any unethical practices during the study by others in the research team.

Q:2 Write short notes on following. (Any Four) (4×5)= 20

a. Sources of Review of Literature.

A review of literature is a comprehensive, critical, and analytical summary of existing research and publications relevant to a particular research topic or problem. It helps in identifying gaps in knowledge, refining research questions, and building a theoretical framework. To conduct a good literature review, it is essential to explore different sources of information that provide valid, updated, and authentic content.

Classification of Sources of Review of Literature

Sources are broadly classified into three major categories:

1. Primary Sources

• These are firsthand, original reports of facts or findings.
• They are created by researchers who conducted the study.
• Considered the most reliable and authentic for evidence-based practice.
• It provides detailed methodology, data, analysis, and conclusions
• It helps in understanding the research design and result interpretation

Examples :

• Research journal articles
• Theses and dissertations
• Conference proceedings (presenting original findings)
• Research reports by institutions
• Clinical trials

2. Secondary Sources

• These sources analyze, interpret, or summarize information from primary sources.
• They are not original research but rather a review or evaluation of existing studies.
• It is useful for building background knowledge.
• It Offers a broad overview of a topic
• It helps in identifies trends, gaps, and theoretical perspectives

Examples :

• Review articles
• Systematic reviews or meta-analysis
• Nursing textbooks
• Encyclopedias
• Literature reviews in scholarly journals
• Theoretical framework chapters

3. Tertiary Sources

• These are tools or reference materials that help in locating both primary and secondary sources.
• They do not contain original content but provide direction for finding it.
• Provides access to wide-ranging literature
• It helps in conducting effective literature search

Examples :

• Bibliographies
• Indexing and abstracting services
• Databases and directories
• Online search engines
• Library catalogs

Other Important Sources in Nursing Literature Review

A. Nursing Journals

• Indian Journal of Nursing
• International Journal of Nursing Studies
• American Journal of Nursing
• Journal of Advanced Nursing

B. Digital Databases & Online Libraries

• PubMed
• CINAHL
• Medline
• Cochrane Library
• ScienceDirect
• Scopus
• Google Scholar
• ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center)

C. Institutional Repositories

• Shodhganga (India – for PhD and Master’s Theses)
• WHO Database
• ICMR publications
• CDC, UNICEF, NACO reports

D. Grey Literature Sources

• Reports, Policy documents, Government Health Schemes, NGO documents

E. Textbooks and Reference Books

• Nursing Research by Polit & Beck
• Nursing Research by Sharma & Sharma

Nursing Responsibilities While Reviewing Literature

• The nurse should ensure ethical usage of published content and avoid plagiarism.
• The nurse must differentiate between primary and secondary sources during the review process.
• The nurse should maintain a record of accessed literature using citation management tools.
• It is important to review both qualitative and quantitative literature.
• Nurses should critically appraise each study for reliability and validity.
• It is essential to align the review of literature with the study objectives and problem statement.

b. Characteristics of Good Research Design.

A research design is the overall plan, structure, and strategy used by a researcher to answer the research question effectively.

It serves as a blueprint for conducting the study, collecting data, and analyzing results.

Characteristics of a Good Research Design

A good research design should meet the following essential qualities to ensure the research is valid, reliable, and useful :

1. Clarity of Purpose

• It must define the research problem, aim, and objectives clearly.
• The hypotheses or research questions should be specific, measurable, and relevant.
• It should help the researcher stay focused and avoid deviation.
• A clear purpose improves the efficiency and direction of the study.
• Example : If studying the effect of handwashing on infection rate, the design must clearly define what, where, and how it will be measured.

2. Appropriateness to the Problem

• The selected design must be suitable for the type of research—exploratory, descriptive, correlational, or experimental.
• It should match the research environment and population (e.g., hospital, community, ICU).
• The design should enable proper investigation of variables involved.
• Misfit design leads to irrelevant or misleading findings.
• Example : For studying cultural practices, qualitative design (ethnography) is more appropriate than experimental.

3. Accuracy

• It ensures that the findings truly reflect reality, with minimal bias or errors.
• Data collection tools should be standardized and precise.
• The design should include pre-testing/pilot study to increase accuracy.
• Controls for extraneous variables should be built into the design.
• Example : Using validated BP instruments and calibrated thermometers ensures measurement accuracy.

4. Reliability

• The research design must yield consistent results over time or with repeated trials.
• Tools and methods must have internal consistency and test-retest reliability.
• Repeating the same study under similar conditions should give comparable outcomes.
• Reliability ensures trustworthiness of the data.
• Example : If a stress scale is used today and after 2 weeks, it should show consistent scores for a stable subject.

5. Validity

• It must measure what it is supposed to measure (internal validity).
• The findings should be applicable to other populations or settings (external validity).
• The design must control for confounding factors and errors.
• Types include : face validity, content validity, criterion validity, and construct validity.
• Example : A weight scale showing consistent but wrong values is reliable but not valid.

6. Flexibility

• A good design should allow modifications when required, especially during pilot studies.
• It should accommodate practical challenges or unexpected issues (e.g., patient dropout, instrument failure).
• Particularly important in qualitative research where situations are dynamic.
• It should maintain core structure while allowing adaptable procedures.
• Example : If patients are unwilling for interviews, the design should switch to observation or focus group.

7. Generalizability

• The results should apply to the wider target population, not just the sample used.
• The design must include appropriate sampling techniques (random, stratified).
• External validity enhances applicability and usefulness of findings in real settings.
• Generalization depends on sample size, diversity, and setting.
• Example : A study on diabetic foot care in one hospital should guide care in other similar hospitals too.

8. Economical and Time-Efficient

• The design should use minimum resources (time, money, manpower) without compromising quality.
• It should be logistically feasible for the institution and the researcher.
• Unnecessary steps or duplication of work should be avoided.
• Budget planning should match the study duration and scope.
• Example : A simple survey may be more economical than a full-scale experiment when funds are limited.

9. Ethically Sound

• Participants’ rights to informed consent, privacy, and voluntary participation must be protected.
• Design should include steps to maintain confidentiality of data.
• Approval from Ethics Committee or Institutional Review Board is mandatory.
• Vulnerable populations (children, elderly) should get special protection.
• Example : Before conducting interviews with cancer patients, consent and emotional safety must be ensured.

10. Objectivity

• The design should aim to reduce personal bias, opinion, or prejudice.
• Data collection and analysis should follow standardized procedures.
• The research tools should be validated and neutral.
• Results should be interpreted based on data, not personal beliefs.
• Example : If a nurse believes yoga is effective, she should still evaluate its effect fairly in the study.

11. Logical Sequence

• The research design should have a well-planned and orderly structure.
• Each step—problem identification, objective setting, sampling, tool development, data collection, analysis—should flow logically.
• Proper sequencing ensures coherence and ease in execution.
• It helps avoid confusion and overlapping of tasks.
• Example : Sampling should be done before data collection, not after.

c. Dependent and Independent Variables.

Definition of Variable

A variable is defined as any measurable characteristic, trait, or property that can change or vary from one individual, group, or situation to another in a research study.

Variables are used to identify, classify, measure, and evaluate concepts and relationships in nursing research, and they play a critical role in hypothesis testing and determining outcomes.

✅ 1. Independent Variable (IV)

• The independent variable is the variable that is deliberately manipulated, introduced, or categorized by the researcher to observe its effect on another variable.
• It is also known as the predictor, stimulus, cause, input, or treatment variable, because it is assumed to influence or cause a change in the dependent variable.
• It is the factor that the researcher changes between experimental groups, while keeping other variables constant.
• The independent variable can have multiple levels or types, such as different drugs, interventions, or educational techniques.
• Example : In a study to evaluate the effect of a health education program on hand hygiene behavior, the independent variable is the health education program.

✅ 2. Dependent Variable (DV)

• The dependent variable is the variable that is observed, measured, or tested to see how it changes in response to the independent variable.
• It is also known as the outcome, response, effect, or output variable, because it is the result that depends on the independent variable.
• It is not manipulated by the researcher; instead, it is affected by the intervention or condition imposed.
• The dependent variable is the main focus of observation and data collection in most experimental and analytical studies.
• Example : In the same study, the dependent variable is the change in hand hygiene behavior after the health education program.

Tabular Comparison Between Independent and Dependent Variables

Point of Difference	✅ Independent Variable (IV)	✅ Dependent Variable (DV)
Definition	The variable that is manipulated or controlled by the researcher	The variable that is measured or observed in response to the IV
Role in Study	Acts as the cause or influencing factor	Acts as the effect or outcome of the study
Control	Controlled, changed, or assigned by the researcher	Not controlled; it is influenced by the IV
Researcher’s Action	The researcher applies or introduces it	The researcher monitors or measures it
Position in Hypothesis	Comes first in hypothesis (e.g., “If IV…”)	Comes after the IV (e.g., “…then DV”)
Examples	Drug dose, teaching method, type of diet, nursing intervention	BP level, test scores, anxiety level, pain intensity

Examples from Nursing and Health Research

Research Topic	✅ Independent Variable	✅ Dependent Variable
Effect of yoga on anxiety among nursing students	Yoga practice (IV)	Anxiety score (DV)
Impact of breast-feeding counseling on lactation practices	Breastfeeding counseling (IV)	Frequency of breastfeeding (DV)
Effect of different wound dressings on wound healing rate	Type of wound dressing used (IV)	Wound healing time or rate (DV)
Comparison of oral vs IV fluid in dehydration	Type of fluid administered (oral/IV) (IV)	Level of hydration improvement (DV)
Study on music therapy and sleep quality in post-operative patients	Use of music therapy (IV)	Quality of sleep measured (DV)

Importance of Understanding Variables in Nursing Research

• It helps the researcher to construct clear, testable hypotheses and study designs.
• It guides the development of research tools, such as questionnaires or checklists, based on measurable outcomes.
• It supports the selection of statistical tests, as most tests analyze relationships between IV and DV.
• It enables accurate data interpretation and conclusion drawing, especially in experimental and quasi-experimental studies.
• It ensures that the cause-and-effect relationship is logically examined, supporting evidence-based nursing interventions.

d. Survey Studies.

Introduction

• A survey study is a type of non-experimental descriptive research method that is used to systematically collect information from a large group of people by using tools like questionnaires, interviews, or checklists in order to describe, analyze, and interpret existing conditions or relationships.
• It is an essential tool in nursing research used to gather data regarding knowledge, attitudes, practices, behaviors, opinions, or health status of individuals, communities, or specific populations.
• It is most commonly applied in public health, community diagnosis, nursing audits, and patient satisfaction research, where large-scale data collection is required.

Purpose of Survey Studies

• It is conducted to collect quantitative or qualitative data about a specific problem or situation affecting a group of people.
• It is used to assess the current status of knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and practices among the population.
• It helps the researcher to identify health-related trends, patterns, or gaps in services and programs.
• It supports evidence-based practice by providing baseline data before planning health interventions.
• It assists in formulating health policies, education strategies, or resource allocation plans based on actual population needs.

Characteristics of Survey Studies

• It involves structured and standardized data collection tools such as questionnaires or interview schedules.
• It targets a specific population or sample group relevant to the research objective.
• It is generally conducted in natural settings, such as hospitals, homes, schools, or communities.
• It is typically used in descriptive, cross-sectional, or correlational studies, and does not involve variable manipulation.
• It can be conducted through various modes such as face-to-face, postal, telephonic, or online surveys.

Types of Survey Studies

1. Descriptive Survey

• It is conducted to describe the existing condition, status, or characteristics of a population at a specific point in time without modifying any variables.
• It helps in quantifying responses to questions such as “what”, “how much”, or “how often”.
• It is useful in estimating disease prevalence, assessing knowledge or awareness levels, or evaluating public attitudes.
• It does not attempt to explain the cause but only presents what is currently happening.
• Example : Survey on hand hygiene knowledge among hospital staff.

2. Analytical Survey

• It is used to determine relationships, associations, or correlations between two or more variables.
• It helps in comparing sub-groups, such as comparing smokers vs non-smokers in terms of respiratory symptoms.
• It often includes hypothesis testing using statistical tools like chi-square or correlation coefficient.
• Though not experimental, it can help predict trends or risk factors for health outcomes.
• Example : Survey on association between work stress and sleep disturbances in nurses.

3. Cross-Sectional Survey

• It is carried out once at a particular time, often referred to as a “snapshot” survey.
• It is best suited for public health assessments, prevalence studies, or awareness campaigns.
• It is easier and faster to conduct and requires fewer resources.
• However, it cannot measure changes or trends over time.
• Example : One-time survey to assess dietary habits among diabetic patients.

4. Longitudinal Survey

• It involves collecting data from the same subjects at multiple points over an extended period.
• It is used to monitor changes, progress, or trends related to behaviors, health outcomes, or interventions.
• It is highly useful in growth and development studies, chronic illness monitoring, or nursing education research.
• Though more reliable, it requires long-term follow-up, commitment, and funding.
• Example : A 2-year follow-up survey on psychological well-being of postnatal mothers.

5. Census Survey

• In this method, data is collected from every member of the entire population, not just a sample.
• It provides comprehensive and accurate data, eliminating sampling errors.
• It is ideal when the population is small, fixed, or critical, such as a closed community or single hospital unit.
• However, it is expensive, time-consuming, and logistically complex for large populations.
• Example : Survey of all final-year nursing students for feedback on clinical posting.

6. Sample Survey

• It involves selecting a smaller, representative portion of the population through systematic or random sampling methods.
• It is more practical, less costly, and quicker than census studies.
• The reliability of results depends on the sampling technique and sample size.
• It allows researchers to generalize findings to the broader population.
• Example : A sample survey on anemia among 300 adolescent girls selected from a district with 30,000 girls.

Steps in Conducting a Survey Study

• It is essential to clearly define the research problem and objective.
• The target population and sample size must be determined scientifically.
• A valid and reliable data collection tool must be prepared and pre-tested.
• Ethical approval must be obtained from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) or Ethics Committee.
• Data is collected, coded, entered, and then analyzed using appropriate methods.
• Findings are interpreted and reported in a logical and clear format for use in nursing practice or policy development.

Advantages of Survey Studies

• It allows the collection of large amounts of data in a short time.
• It is cost-effective and practical, especially with online tools.
• It can be used to study multiple variables and complex populations.
• It helps in understanding real-life behaviors and social attitudes.
• It provides reliable data for decision-making and evaluation of healthcare programs.

Disadvantages of Survey Studies

• It may suffer from response bias if participants answer untruthfully.
• Non-response rate may be high, especially in postal or online surveys.
• It cannot establish cause-and-effect relationships, only associations.
• It may lead to superficial data in cases where open discussion is needed.
• Its reliability depends heavily on the quality of the tool and sampling technique used.

Significance of Survey Studies in Nursing

• It is used to assess community health needs and health behaviors.
• It supports planning for health education, awareness, and training programs.
• It is helpful in evaluating nursing interventions, satisfaction levels, and service outcomes.
• It enables nurses to contribute to evidence-based practice by providing valid field data.
• It helps in policy formulation and nursing research proposal development.

e. Types of Qualitative Research

Qualitative research is used to explore human experiences, behaviors, perceptions, and meanings in depth. It focuses on non-numerical data and is conducted in natural settings.

Types of Qualitative Research

1. Phenomenological Research

• It is a type of qualitative research that focuses on studying how individuals experience a particular phenomenon in their life.
• The aim is to understand and describe lived experiences from the participant’s point of view.
• It seeks to uncover deep meanings, feelings, and perceptions.
• Data is usually collected through open-ended in-depth interviews, audio recordings, and observations.
• The researcher brackets their own beliefs to fully explore participants’ views.

Example :

• Studying the experience of patients living with chronic pain.
• Understanding the emotional journey of mothers in NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).

2. Ethnographic Research

• It is used to study the culture, behavior, language, rituals, and interactions of a specific group of people.
• The researcher becomes part of the group for an extended period (called fieldwork).
• It provides a holistic understanding of social practices and cultural patterns.

• Common tools include participant observation, interviews, artifacts, field notes, etc.
• It originated from anthropology but is widely used in nursing to understand health behaviors.

Example :

• Exploring the health practices of a tribal community.
• Understanding dietary beliefs of postpartum women in rural India.

3. Grounded Theory Research

• This method aims to generate or develop a theory that is grounded in the data collected from participants.
• Data collection and analysis happen simultaneously through coding and categorizing.
• Constant comparative analysis is used until a core category (main theme) emerges.
• The theory developed is context-specific and based on participants’ realities.

Example :

• Developing a theory on coping strategies among nurses in emergency departments.
• Understanding how families adapt after a child’s cancer diagnosis.

4. Case Study Research

• This type focuses on an in-depth exploration of a single individual, event, group, or situation over time.
• It provides a comprehensive and detailed view using multiple sources of information.
• Data is gathered through interviews, documents, observation, photographs, and reports.
• It helps in understanding complex issues in real-life contexts.

Example :

• A detailed study on the rehabilitation journey of a stroke survivor.
• Examining a hospital’s approach to implementing a new infection control policy.

5. Narrative Research

• Narrative research involves collecting stories and personal experiences of individuals to understand how they interpret life events.
• It uses biographies, autobiographies, journals, letters, and interviews.
• Emphasis is given to the sequence of events, turning points, and outcomes.
• Data is analyzed as a storyline or plot to identify themes and meanings.

Example :

• Exploring a nurse’s story of working during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Life story of an elderly person with Alzheimer’s disease.

6. Historical Research

• It deals with the systematic investigation of past events to understand current practices or predict future trends.
• Data is collected from archives, official records, photographs, letters, journals, and oral histories.
• It helps to identify patterns and evolution in healthcare systems, policies, and nursing practices.
• Used to preserve nursing heritage and understand the progress of the profession.

Example :

• Studying the development of nursing education in post-independence India.
• Exploring the role of Florence Nightingale during war-time nursing.

Q:3 Define following terms. (Any Four): (4×2)= 08

a. Research

Research is a systematic and scientific process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting information to answer a question, solve a problem, or generate new knowledge.
It involves the use of organized methods and tools to investigate phenomena and draw valid and reliable conclusions.

Example :
A study conducted to find the effectiveness of hand hygiene in preventing hospital-acquired infections is an example of nursing research.

b. Data

Data refers to the collection of facts, figures, observations, or information gathered through various methods for the purpose of analysis, interpretation, and decision-making in research. It can be qualitative or quantitative, and is used to answer research questions, test hypotheses, and draw conclusions.

Example :
Information such as age, gender, blood pressure readings, and patient satisfaction scores collected from patients during a nursing study is considered data.

c. Sample

A sample is a subset or smaller group selected from a larger population that is used to represent the characteristics of the entire population in a research study.
It is selected using scientific sampling techniques and helps in conducting research when studying the whole population is not feasible.

Example :
If a researcher wants to study eating habits among nursing students, and selects 100 students out of 1,000, then those 100 form the sample.

d. Target Population

Target population refers to the entire group of individuals or elements that meet the criteria specified for a research study and from which the sample is drawn.
It is the group of interest to the researcher and about whom the findings of the study are intended to be generalized.

Example :
If a study is conducted to assess stress levels among B.Sc Nursing students, then all B.Sc Nursing students in a particular college or university form the target population

e. Table

A table is a systematic arrangement of data in rows and columns used to present information clearly and concisely for easy comparison and interpretation.
It helps in organizing numerical and categorical data in a structured format, facilitating understanding, analysis, and decision-making in research.

SECTION: II

Q:4 Write the difference between Experimental & Non-Experimental Research. 10

🔷 Criteria	✅ Experimental Research	✅ Non-Experimental Research
1. Meaning	It is a type of research in which the researcher deliberately manipulates one or more independent variables to observe the effect on dependent variables.	It is a type of research where the researcher only observes the variables as they occur naturally, without any manipulation or intervention.
2. Purpose	To identify cause-and-effect relationships between variables.	To describe characteristics, explore relationships, or understand phenomena without controlling or altering the variables.
3. Researcher’s Role	The researcher plays an active role by manipulating variables and assigning subjects to experimental/control groups.	The researcher plays a passive role by simply observing and recording data.
4. Control Over Variables	There is strict control over extraneous variables and research conditions to maintain internal validity.	There is no control over external or intervening variables, which may affect the results.
5. Independent Variable	The independent variable is deliberately changed to study its effect on the dependent variable.	The independent variable is not manipulated; it is observed as it naturally exists.
6. Setting	Usually conducted in controlled environments, such as labs, clinical trials, or simulation rooms.	Conducted in natural settings, such as homes, hospitals, communities, or schools.
7. Grouping	Subjects are often randomly assigned to experimental and control groups.	No such group division is done; all participants are studied as a single group or observed naturally.
8. Data Analysis	Focuses on comparing pre-test and post-test results, analyzing differences between groups.	Focuses on describing, correlating, or comparing existing data without experimental manipulation.
9. Examples	– Clinical trial on the effect of a new drug – Intervention study on patient education and recovery	– Survey on stress among nurses – Correlation between sleep and academic performance
10. Research Designs Included	– True Experimental (Randomized Controlled Trials – RCTs) – Quasi-Experimental – Pre-Experimental	– Descriptive Studies – Correlational Studies – Comparative Studies – Exploratory and Historical Research
11. Outcome	Provides strong evidence for causal relationships and effectiveness of interventions.	Provides insightful data about trends, patterns, relationships, or prevalence, but does not confirm causality.
12. Reliability & Validity	Usually has high internal validity due to controlled settings but may lack external validity (generalizability).	Often has high external validity (applicable to real-world settings) but may lack internal control, affecting accuracy.

Q.5 A) Find the mean from the following data.

Age of the student (in year) : 18 19 20 22 23

No. of students : 15 20 8 15 2

Mean (𝑥̄) = ∑fx / ∑f

𝑥 = Age of students (the variable)

𝑓 = Number of students (frequency)

𝑓𝑥= Multiply age by number of students

Step-by-Step Calculation Table

Age (x)	No. of Students (f)	f×xf \times x
18	15	270
19	20	380
20	8	160
22	15	330
23	2	46
Total (Σf) = 60		Σfx = 1186

𝑥̄ = ∑fx / ∑f

𝑥̄ = 1186/60

𝑥̄ = 19.77

Mean Age of the Students = 19.77 years

B) Calculate standard deviation from the following table.

Weight : 60-62 62-64 64-66 66-68 68-70 70-72 72-74

Student : 2 8 10 6 10 8 2

Class (kg)	f (Frequency)	x (Midpoint)	fx	x²	fx²
60–62	2	61	122	3721	7442
62–64	8	63	504	3969	31752
64–66	10	65	650	4225	42250
66–68	6	67	402	4489	26934
68–70	10	69	690	4761	47610
70–72	8	71	568	5041	40328
72–74	2	73	146	5329	10658
Total	46		3082		206974

C) Calculate the median from the following table

Wages : 80-100 100-120 120-140 140-160 160-180

Workers : 8 12 16 8 6

Class Interval (Wages)	Frequency (f)	Cumulative Frequency (CF)
80 – 100	8	8
100 – 120	12	8 + 12 = 20
120 – 140	16	20 + 16 = 36
140 – 160	8	36 + 8 = 44
160 – 180	6	44 + 6 = 50

Q.6 Calculate arithematic mean of the following

Weignt in kg. : 60-61 61-62 62-63 63-64 64-65 65-66 66-67

Frequency : 10 20 45 50 60 55 25

Mean (𝑥̄) = ∑fx / ∑f

𝑥 = Mid point of each class

𝑓 = Frequency

𝑓𝑥= Product of frequency and midpoint

Step-by-Step Calculation Table

Weight (kg)	Frequency (f)	Midpoint (x)	f×xf \times x
60 – 61	10	60.5	605.0
61 – 62	20	61.5	1230.0
62 – 63	45	62.5	2812.5
63 – 64	50	63.5	3175.0
64 – 65	60	64.5	3870.0
65 – 66	55	65.5	3602.5
66 – 67	25	66.5	1662.5
Total	Σf = 265		Σfx = 16957.5

𝑥̄ = ∑fx / ∑f

𝑥̄ = 16957.5/265

𝑥̄ = 63.97

Arithmetic Mean = 63.97 kg