Quantitative Research Design
Describe the difference between qualitative and quantitative data as it relates to clinical practice and your clinical question. Provide references to substantiate the distinction of the two data sources.
Sample Solution
Quantitative research is based on structure and uses experiments and surveys as methods. In addition, it is deductive in nature and uses statistical sampling methods. In contrast, qualitative research is described as an action research using observation and interview methods. Within a healthcare setting, qualitative research can aim to identify what matters most to patients and how their experience can be improved. Improving patient care must be an ongoing goal among health service providers. Qualitative data plays a pivotal role in supporting this continual improvement through the collection and interpretation of patient perspectives. Quantitative evidence provides the empiric knowing necessary for practice, and qualitative evidence supports the personal and experiential knowing critical for practice.
