Research and quality improvement as processes are both implemented in the health care delivery system. However, it should be noted that there are significant differences between these two concepts. Thus, research is a systematic study that requires a specific structure to be implemented, that consists of a literature review, methodologies, and a number of other elements. In addition, it is aimed at increasing knowledge and understanding of a certain issue. For example, causes of the disease or the effect of a specific drug in treating that disease. In turn, quality improvement is a process in which individuals collect data and statistics to restructure certain practices and procedures in the healthcare setting on order to increase their efficiency (Niñerola et al., 2020). Therefore, compared to research studies, quality improvement is specifically focused on providing safer, more efficient, and patient-centered care.
Within my organization, qualitative and quantitative research is applied in relation to a variety of issues and topics. For instance, qualitative research is conducted to evaluate the challenges and problems health professionals can face in everyday practice, as well as the factors that can lead to job dissatisfaction and burnout (Squires & Dorsen, 2018). In turn, quantitative research is conducted when there is a need to collect statistical data to perform an empirical investigation. This process is characterised by the use of variables that can be measured and analyzed as statistical information and instruments. A specific example of quantitative research conducted within my workplace is the study aimed at improving hand hygiene compliance. As the statistical data has shown that the levels of compliance are low, the study has managed to develop an approach to address this issue. Therefore, both qualitative and quantitative research is commonly implemented to solve problems that currently exist in the health care system.
References
Niñerola, A., Sánchez-Rebull, M., & Hernández-Lara, A. (2020). Quality improvement in healthcare: Six Sigma systematic review. Health Policy, 124(4), 438-445.
Squires, A., & Dorsen, C. (2018). Qualitative research in nursing and health professions regulation. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 9(3), 15-26.