Researches based on qualitative data seek to find out how certain phenomena develop and to establish the reasons for their occurrence. Unlike quantitative research, which uses data from globally available econometric databases and state archives, qualitative research is based on one or more mechanisms, such as interviews, observations, or surveys. Accordingly, qualitative research’s main advantage is that it allows investigators to evaluate and compare certain phenomena that cannot be measured in numerical terms. Moreover, Holloway and Galvin (2016) argue that a holistic approach to qualitative research and its personality-oriented perspective is best suited to study certain phenomena in nursing.
Qualitative analysis is accused of subjectivism and inaccuracy regarding the incomplete reflection of reality. Therefore, to successfully investigate the phenomena based on qualitative analysis, it is necessary to identify the main themes and subthemes of the study (BSN Completion Program, 2015; Sarvestani et al., 2015). However, the process of transcription, identifying patterns, and selecting the data require professionalism, thorough experience in conducting research, attention to detail, and perfect nursing theory knowledge. Gunawan (2015) states that to ensure the reliability of qualitative research, researchers consider re-examining survey participants or focus groups and transcribing to identify the relationships between the data obtained. Accordingly, if researchers follow the necessary instructions on inclusiveness and representativeness in surveys or other qualitative analysis tools, it is possible to identify patterns and shortcomings in the functioning of systems. Therefore, the results of the study will be considered valid and objective.
Qualitative research could be applied to detect medical errors. For example, researchers can create a program that identifies data that is specific to individual reports or notes. Artificial intelligence, which is gaining momentum in nursing, can also be used to analyze and describe the phenomenon of errors in various records. The qualitative analysis makes it possible to identify errors and prevent them in the future, while quantitative analysis will allow researchers to assess the frequency of their occurrence statistically.
References
BSN Completion Program. (2015). Qualitative research nursing webinar [Video]. Walden University.
Gunawan, J. (2015). Ensuring trustworthiness in qualitative research.Belitung Nursing Journal, 1(1), 10-11. Web.
Holloway, I., & Galvin, K. (2016). Qualitative research in nursing and healthcare. John Wiley & Sons.
Sarvestani, R. S., Moattari, M., Nasrabadi, A. N., Momennasab, M., & Yektatalab, S. (2015). Challenges of Nursing Handover: A Qualitative Study. Clinical Nursing Research, 24(3), 234-252. Web.