Research Methods and Processes.

Research is defined as a scientific process that validates and refines existing knowledge. New knowledge that is generated from this, directly and indirectly influence nursing practice. Research is needed to provide high-quality learning experiences to nurses and is essential for the development of empirical knowledge that enables them to provide evidence-based nursing care. Evidence-based practice, a process of integrating best current research evidence that has been empirical tested  ensures that safe, cost-effective and high quality care is achieved and maintained at all times when delivering healthcare services to patients and families. It is imperative that the quality of care provided by healthcare professionals be constantly evaluated and improved on the basis of new and refined research knowledge. Through this, empirical knowledge can be developed to improve nursing care, patient outcomes and healthcare delivery system. Research knowledge is needed to improve decision making processes, prioritizing and organising nursing care. A solid research base is needed to document the effectiveness of selected nursing interventions in treating particular patient problem and promoting positive patient and family outcome. Nurses need to use evidence-based knowledge to determine the best way to deliver healthcare services ensuring that the greatest number of people receives care. In light of these considerations, the report will discuss the necessary steps that need to be employed when critically evaluating quantitative and qualitative research in order to establish the extent of the current evidence. The report will also identify the purposes, strengths and weaknesses of different critiquing tools. Barriers to implement research into practice will be discussed (Appendix 1), taking into account the specific impediments that are faced in practice area and how these might be overcome.