Discussion/Forums
Part 1: The first part will be a summary of the topic in the student’s own words (500 words) to demonstrate their understanding of the topic. The student is required to cite the book using APA format. For some forum discussions there will also be supplemental material that the student may use to develop the summary; if supplemental content is provided, the student will need to cite at least one of those sources in the summary to demonstrate their application of the knowledge that the student have gained from the lecture and the text. Within the summary the student is also allowed to convey real life experiences, when appropriate, to further develop their point.

1. For this week’s discussion you will choose one research article (one of the four that have been provided on the next link and identify the theoretical framework.

2. Next you will identify at least one primary source and one secondary source in the reference section which pertains to the theoretical framework.

3. Conduct an electronic database search to locate those articles using Gale-Infotract on LIRN, CINAHL, or ProQuest. Briefly review the abstracts of the articles.

4. Last, conduct an Internet search of the theoretical framework. Identify possible benefits and concerns that you uncovered with using this theoretical framework instead of another.
Chapter 01: Integrating Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Quality Improvement Processes LoBiondo-Wood & Haber: Nursing Research: Methods and Critical Appraisal for Evidence-Based Practice, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. Nursing research is significant to the profession of nursing because it promotes:
a. more specifically defined nursing practice responsibilities.
b. decreased liability within the practice of nursing.
c. generation of a specialized body of nursing knowledge for use in nursing practice.
d. expansion of the scope of nursing practice into other disciplines.
ANS: C
Feedback A Research aids in documenting accountability of nurses, but professional guidelines already exist regarding responsibility. Each state has a Nurse Practice Act with rules and regulations that define scope of practice. B Liability is a legal concept related to a nurse’s legal scope of practice and professional standards of practice. Research does not change a nurse’s liability. C Nursing research generates a specialized scientific knowledge base that empowers the nursing profession to anticipate and meet constantly shifting challenges of health care delivery to multiple populations. It provides a foundation for evidence-based nursing care and quality improvement activities. D Although research can document nursing accountability, each state’s Nurse Practice Act defines the scope of nursing practice for that state.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 6
2. An aspect of the scientific investigation of nursing practice that is also a fundamental concept of American Nurses Association (ANA)’s Code for Nurses is:
a. professional accountability.
b. standards of care.
c. legal scope of practice.
d. advanced practice nursing activities.
ANS: A
Feedback A Scientific investigation promotes accountability, a hallmark of the nursing profession and a fundamental concept of the ANA’s Code for Nurses. B Standards of care are defined by ANA, as well as specialty nursing organizations. The Code for Nurses states that nurses should conform to standards, but standards per se are not part of the Code. C Legal scope of practice is defined by each state’s Nurse Practice Act and elaborated in its rules and regulations. D The ANA Code applies to nursing practice in general, not advanced practice.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 7
3. Nurses need to be able to understand the nursing research process:
a. to identify potential subjects for clinical research studies.
b. to Help as accurate data collectors in clinical research studies.
c. to teach patients and families the importance of participating in research.
d. to evaluate nursing research reports for relevance to their own clinical practice.
ANS: D
Feedback A Subject identification is determined by the nurse researcher. B Data collectors need to understand their role in the study; they do not need to understand the entire research process. C Subject recruitment is the responsibility of the nurse researcher. D Nurses need to understand the research process in order to critically read research reports and determine if nursing practice should incorporate the research findings as
The action that demonstrates the role of a knowledgeable consumer of nursing research is:
a. designing a nursing research study.
b. analyzing data to determine a study’s outcomes.
c. evaluating the credibility of research findings.
d. implementing an intervention found to be effective in one clinical case study.
ANS: C
Feedback A A consumer uses and applies research to practice but is not responsible for designing a study. B A consumer does not conduct data analysis of a study; the study’s primary investigator analyzes data. C A consumer of nursing research needs to understand the research process to determine the merit and relevance of evidence presented in research studies. D A consumer would not implement an intervention on the basis of a single case study.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 7
5. Members of the nursing staff are to participate in a unit-based clinical research study. Which research-related actions would be expected of a nurse with a baccalaureate nursing degree?
a. Using critical appraisal skills to understand and assess the steps of the research process
b. Providing expert nursing consultation about the way in which clinical services are delivered
c. Developing research methods to monitor and evaluate the quality of nursing practice in the clinical setting d. Providing leadership in the application of scientific knowledge to nursing practice
ANS: A
Feedback A A baccalaureate-prepared nurse should be able to use skills of critical appraisal to both understand and appraise the steps of the research process. B Nurses prepared at the baccalaureate level in nursing are at the bedside implementing protocols, whereas expert consultation is generally reserved for nurses prepared at the master’s or higher-degree level (advanced education). C Developing research methods is generally reserved for nurses with advanced education. D Providing leadership in research application is generally reserved for nurses with advanced education.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 7
6. Which statement describes the role of the nurse in research?
a. Nurses must be prepared at the baccalaureate or higher level of education to have any role in nursing research.
b. Nurses with master’s or higher levels of education are solely responsible for applying research to clinical practice.
c. The research role of nurses prepared at both baccalaureate and master’s levels of education includes critical appraisal skills.
d. Regardless of the nursing education level, only the nurse with the most comprehensive understanding of statistical methods should interpret research findings.
ANS: C
Feedback A Having a role in nursing research or implementing findings is not limited to nurses with baccalaureate or higher levels of education. B Nurses with master’s or higher levels of education provide leadership to supervise how research findings are applied in the clinical area. However, all levels of nurses can apply research findings to practice. C To use research in evidence-based practice, the nurse must not necessarily be able to conduct research but should be able to understand and appraise the steps of the research process to read the research literature critically and use it to inform clinical decisions. D Data analysis is usually conducted by nurses with master’s or higher levels of education. However, interpretation of research findings can be performed by any nurse who can critically analyze the research performed.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 7
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 3
7. What is the primary value of evidence-based nursing practice?
a. Implementing the most cost-effective nursing practices when providing patient care
b. Incorporating research findings with clinical expertise when individualizing patient care
c. Separating nursing research as unique from the research of other disciplines
d. Developing new nursing theories to promote the growth of nursing science
ANS: B
Feedback A Cost-effective nursing interventions can occur based on evidence, but it is not the primary value of evidence-based nursing practice. B Evidence-based practice allows the nurse to systematically integrate the best available research evidence with individual clinical expertise, as well as the patient’s values and preferences, when making clinical decisions. C Developing a unique body of nursing knowledge is important, but it is not the primary value of developing evidence-based nursing practice. Also, nurse researchers should be able to collaborate with researchers in other disciplines. D Developing abstract nursing theory is important, but evidence-based nursing is focused on the more concrete application of knowledge in clinical practice.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 14
8. A novice nurse researcher is comparing the processes used in nursing research and in evidence-based practice. What differences, if any, exist between the two processes?
a. As scientific processes, they are fundamentally the same and should result in parallel outcomes.
b. Both processes involve testing a question with an appropriate design and specific methodology.
c. In a research study the question is tested with an appropriate design and specific methodology, whereas in evidence-based practice, the question is used to search the research literature to find answers.
d. In evidence-based practice, qualitative studies are critically appraised to answer a clinical question, whereas in nursing research, quantitative studies are reviewed to provide a foundation for the study.
ANS: C
Feedback A The research process and the evidence-based practice process, though similar, have fundamental differences as well. B This definition applies to the research process, not the evidence-based practice process. C Nursing research includes developing a design for a study, whether quantitative or qualitative, reviewing the literature, and carrying out a specific methodology to find answers to a question. In contrast, evidence-based practice includes a review of completed research studies to identify answers to a clinical question. D Both the research process and the evidence-based practice process include critical review of quantitative and qualitative studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 7
9. A nurse is analyzing a research article. Where in the article is the nurse likely to find the research question and study purpose? a. Introduction b. Data analysis c. Findings d. Data collection
ANS: A
Feedback A The research question and study purpose is generally found early in the report: in the abstract, the introduction, or at the end of the literature review or conceptual framework section. B The research question and study purpose are defined before the data analysis section of the research article. C The research question and study purpose are defined before the findings section of the research article. Do The research question and study purpose are defined before the data-collection section of the research article?
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 8, Table 1.1
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10. The nurse researcher is conducting a research study using subjects who will be interviewed regarding their experience with postpartum depression. Why would the researcher select a qualitative, rather than a quantitative, research design?
a. Quantitative research is usually conducted in natural settings using data that are words rather than numbers.
b. Qualitative research seeks to explain cause-and-effect relationships between variables.
c. Quantitative research typically uses a convenience sample, seeking to answer a clinical question about a human experience.
d. Qualitative research collects data from a small number of subjects, allowing for in-depth study of a phenomenon.
ANS: D
Feedback A Qualitative, not quantitative, research is usually conducted in natural settings using data that are words rather than numbers. B Quantitative, not qualitative, research seeks to explain cause-and-effect relationships between variables. C Qualitative, not quantitative, research seeks to answer a question about a human experience. D Qualitative research typically collects data from a small number of subjects, thus allowing for in-depth study of a phenomenon while using a subjective approach.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 8
11. The nurse is analyzing a research article. To determine if an integrative review was performed as part of the study, the nurse must understand that this type of review is:
a. a summary of research studies on a focused topic that used a specific statistical methodology.
b. a synthesis of the research and theoretical literature on a specific area without a statistical analysis.
c. a synthesis of qualitative articles on a focused topic using a specific qualitative methodology.
d. a summary of articles in an attempt to develop a clinical practice statement or clinical guidelines.
ANS: B
Feedback A Meta-analysis summarizes articles on a focused topic that used a specific methodology. B An integrative review is a synthesis of research or theoretical literature on a specific area that follows specific steps of literature integration without statistical analysis. C Meta-synthesis is a synthesis of qualitative articles on a focused topic using specific qualitative methodology. D Clinical guidelines are practice statements designed to Help clinicians about health care decisions for specific conditions or situations.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 19
12. When assessing the strength of a body of evidence used in a research study for consistency, the nurse should determine:
a. extent to which the study’s design, implementation, and analysis minimize bias.
b. number of studies that have evaluated the research question, including overall sample size across studies.
c. degree to which studies with similar and different designs investigated the same research questions and report similar findings.
d. significance of the findings based on the statistical methods used for data analysis.
ANS: C
Feedback A Quality refers to the extent to which the study’s design, implementation, and analysis minimize bias. B Quantity refers to the number of studies that have evaluated the research question, including overall sample size across studies. C Consistency is the degree to which studies that had similar and different designs (but investigate the same research question) reported similar findings. D Quantity refers to the strength of the findings in the statistical analyses.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 14
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 5
13. The nurse is analyzing a qualitative research article. In which section of the article is the nurse likely to find a summary of legal-ethical issues considered in the study?
a. Data collection or procedures
b. Findings or results
c. Discussion or implications
d. Abstract or introduction
ANS: A
Feedback A Legal-ethical issues are typically discussed in the article’s data-collection or procedures section, usually when discussing the sample. B The research results are typically found in the findings or results sections. C Recommendations are typically found in the discussion or implications sections. D The research question and study purpose are typically found in the abstract or introduction.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 8, Table 1.1
14. The nurse is analyzing a qualitative research article. In which section of the article should the nurse expect to find a discussion of the research findings?
a. Procedures
b. Methods
c. Sample
d. Results
ANS: D
Feedback A Data analysis is typically included in the data analysis or procedures section. B Instruments and their validity and reliability are included in the methods or instruments sections. C The research sample and legal-ethical issues are included in the sample or subjects’ section. D The discussion of the findings will be located in the results or discussion section.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 8, Table 1.1
15. The nurse is using the critical reading process to analyze a research article. The nurse identifies the main theme of the article and states it in two sentences, using the nurse’s own words. The nurse is using a strategy to promote which type of understanding?
a. Preliminary
b. Comprehensive
c. Analysis
d. Synthesis
ANS: B
Feedback A Strategies for preliminary understanding include activities such as using a dictionary and identifying key variables of the study. B Strategies for comprehensive understanding include restating the main idea or theme of the article in one’s own words. C Strategies for analysis understanding include using criteria to critique the steps of the research process used in the study. D Strategies for synthesis understanding include writing a summary of the strengths and weaknesses of the study.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 12
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16. The nurse is using the critical reading process to analyze a research article. The nurse is using a list of criteria to determine how well the researcher performed each step of the research process. The nurse is using a strategy to promote which type of understanding?
a. Preliminary
b. Comprehensive
c. Analysis
d. Synthesis
ANS: C
Feedback A Strategies for preliminary understanding include activities such as highlighting or underlining identified steps of the research process. B Strategies for comprehensive understanding include restating the main idea or theme of the article in one’s own words. C Strategies for analysis understanding include using criteria to critique the steps of the research process used in the study. D Strategies for synthesis understanding include writing a summary of the strengths and weaknesses of the study.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 10
17. Which of the following is a critical step for the quality improvement process in health care settings?
a. Outlining general long-range goals
b. Identifying current successful practices
c. Testing practice changes slowly and tentatively
d. Adopting a practice change as a new standard of care
ANS: D
Feedback A Quality improvement includes identifying specific, immediate goals, not long-range goals. B The quality improvement process includes identifying practices that pose problems, rather than identifying successful practices. C Quality improvement includes testing practice changes rapidly, not slowly. D The goal of quality improvement activities is to bring about changes in practice that will make a positive difference in patient care. Therefore, adopting a practice change is a critical step in the process.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 20
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. Which statements describe the actions of the baccalaureate nurse graduate as a participant in the nursing research process? (Select all that apply.)
a. Administering care at the bedside according to a research protocol
b. Providing leadership by helping others apply scientific knowledge to practice
c. Sharing with nursing colleagues research findings that are pertinent to practice
d. Designing and conducting nursing research studies e. Functioning as a primary investigator for a research study
ANS: A, C
Feedback Correct Following a research protocol at the bedside is an activity consistent with the practice of a nurse prepared at the baccalaureate level. Sharing research evidence with colleagues is an activity consistent with the practice of a nurse prepared at the baccalaureate level. Incorrect Leadership related to scientific investigation is more appropriate for a nurse prepared at the master’s or higher-degree level. Designing and conducting research studies are activities more appropriate for a nurse with doctoral preparation. Functioning as a primary investigator is an activity appropriate for a nurse with doctoral preparation.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 7
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2. Which aspects of the nursing research process are common to nurses at all educational levels? (Select all that apply.)
a. Disseminating research findings in research reports
b. Maintaining the protection of patients who are subjects in a study
c. Using one’s expertise to develop theoretical explanations for findings
d. Knowing the relationship between research and nursing practice
e. Being a member of a collaborative team that applies research to practice.

ANS: B, D, E
Feedback Correct All nurses are responsible for protecting the rights of patients. All nurses should be aware that research is related to practice. All nurses can be a part of a clinical team that applies research to practice. Incorrect Disseminating research in scientific reports is an activity generally performed by nurses with master’s or higher educational preparation. Developing theoretical explanations for findings is an activity generally performed by nurses with master’s or higher educational preparation.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 7
3. For the baccalaureate nursing student, education in nursing research should result in: (Select all that apply.)
a. mastering the development of research protocols.
b. gaining basic understanding of the research process.
c. learning how research is related to clinical nursing practice.
d. developing skill as a primary investigator in research.
e. becoming a knowledgeable consumer of nursing research.
ANS: B, C, E
Feedback Correct The student should gain an initial understanding of the importance of research in nursing practice. The student should learn how research is related to clinical nursing practice. The student should learn skills in the critical analysis of research to Help in decisions about applying research findings in nursing practice. Incorrect Mastery of research protocol development is generally attained at the master’s or higher-degree level of education. Developing skill as a primary investigator is generally attained at the doctoral level of education.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 7
4. Developing nurse researchers at a younger age is a priority for the future in the nursing profession because it should: (Select all that apply.)
a. enhance the discipline’s scientific development.
b. increase the longevity of research careers.
c. receive more research funding for professional organizations.
d. promote mentoring opportunities for novice researchers.
e. increase nursing’s role in pharmaceutical research.
ANS: A, B, D
Feedback Correct Developing young researchers increases the number of researchers contributing to the science of the discipline. Introducing nurses to research at a younger age allows them sufficient time to develop in-depth research programs in their careers. Introducing nurses to research at a younger age allows them time and opportunity to be mentored by experienced researchers, as well as to learn to become mentors themselves. Incorrect Younger researchers do not guarantee research monies. Pharmaceutical studies are medical research and are not considered nursing research studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension)

Chapter 02: Research Questions, Hypotheses, and Clinical Questions LoBiondo-Wood & Haber: Nursing Research: Methods and Critical Appraisal for Evidence-Based Practice, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. The difference between a research question and a hypothesis is:
a. a research question is practice based, and a hypothesis is theory based.
b. a hypothesis attempts to answer the question posed by the research problem.
c. a research problem defines clinical research and a hypothesis defines basic research.
d. there is no difference between a research problem and a hypothesis.
ANS: B
Feedback A Although a hypothesis is sometimes theory based, sometimes it is not. Similarly, research questions are not always practice based. Sometimes they originate in educational theory that relates to nursing education research, and sometimes they originate in basic, rather than applied, research. B A hypothesis attempts to answer the research question. C Research problems are present in all types of research, and a hypothesis may be present in basic or applied research. D Hypotheses and research questions are not identical. Hypotheses flow from research questions and suggest the ways the questions can be investigated.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 24
2. How is a hypothesis related to a theory?
a. Hypotheses can be developed in the absence of a theoretical framework.
b. Hypotheses must be consistent with an existing theoretical framework.
c. A theory can determine the validity of a hypothesis.
d. A theory can be used to evaluate the merit of a hypothesis.
ANS: B
Feedback A A hypothesis is a bridge between a theoretical framework and the real world of empirical testing. Therefore, a theoretical framework is required. B A sound hypothesis is consistent with an existing body of theory and research findings. C When tested, a hypothesis can help determine the validity of a theory’s assumptions—the reverse of option C. D When tested, a hypothesis can help evaluate a theory’s merit—the opposite of option D.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 24
3. A nurse makes these statements. Which one has the greatest potential as an area of nursing research?
a. “Most of our hospital’s admissions come in at night.”
b. “It is difficult to find personnel willing to work the nightshift.”
c. “It seems that most of the patient falls on our unit occur during the nightshift.”
d. “The personnel on the nightshift are not attending promptly to the needs of our patients.”
ANS: C
Feedback A This statement is broad and not specific to patient care. It would need to be defined in much more detail to have potential for nursing research. B This broad statement is important to managers responsible for staffing a health care facility. However, it does not show potential for investigation that would contribute to the body of nursing knowledge. C This statement identifies a specific, important patient problem. Its exploration has potential to contribute to the body of nursing knowledge. D This is a broad subjective observation that does not suggest any approach for investigation or potential for contributing to the body of nursing knowledge.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 25, Table 2.1
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4. The nurse has identified a clinical problem as a potential research question. The next step should be:
a. identify the variables.
b. formulate the research hypothesis.
c. perform a literature review.
d. determine financial resources for the research project.
ANS: C
Feedback A It is too early to identify variables. They will be confirmed by the literature review. B Although the researcher may have a preliminary hunch about the hypothesis, it cannot be formulated until the research question is formalized after the literature review is completed. C The literature review helps to further define the research question by identifying gaps in the literature, the need for replication of prior research, or the need to extend the knowledge base in a particular research area. It also identifies variables essential to consider in refining the research question. D The financial resources needed for the project cannot be determined until the study’s design and methodology are finalized.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 25, Table 2.1, page 26
5. In a research study, properties of interest that differ in value are:
a. variables.
b. concepts.
c. hypotheses.
d. assumptions.
ANS: A
Feedback A This is the widely accepted and often-cited definition of variables. B A concept is an abstraction that names an object or phenomenon. C A hypothesis is a prediction that helps to answer a research question. D Assumptions are statements accepted as true.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 29
6. A nurse researcher proposes a study of teenage mothers and their experience with postpartum depression. Considerations that would affect the feasibility of the study would be:
a. availability of participants.
b. direction of the hypotheses.
c. gaps in the literature.
d. design of the study.
ANS: A
Feedback A A study’s feasibility is determined by practical considerations, such as availability of subjects, equipment, facilities, and money. B The direction of the hypothesis is irrelevant to a study’s feasibility. C Gaps in the literature provide support for the research study and do not affect its feasibility. D The design of the study is shaped by the research question and is not directly related to the study’s feasibility.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 27
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7. The most significant difference between independent and dependent variables is:
a. the dependent variable should change in response to manipulation by the independent variable.
b. the independent variable should change in response to manipulation by the dependent variable.
c. although both the dependent and independent variables are manipulated, only the dependent variable is considered an intervention.
d. although both the dependent and independent variables are manipulated, only the independent variable is considered an intervention.
ANS: A
Feedback A Dependent variables change in response to manipulation of independent variables in experimental research. B The reverse is accurate. Dependent variables change in response to manipulation of independent variables in experimental research. C The independent variable alone is considered an intervention; the dependent variable is the consequence or presumed effect. D The independent variable alone is considered an intervention; the dependent variable is the consequence or presumed effect.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 29
8. When designing a research study, the nurse should recognize regarding independent and dependent variables
a. All research problem statements should contain a dependent and an independent variable.
b. There should only be one dependent variable associated with a single independent variable.
c. The relationship between the independent and the dependent variable in any study should be causal.
d. A given characteristic or situation may be the dependent variable in one study and the independent variable in another.
ANS: D
Feedback A Some descriptive studies may have one variable only, and qualitative studies do not include independent and dependent variables. B Many studies include more than one independent variable and more than one dependent variable. C The relationship between independent and dependent variables is not necessarily causal. An association between variables need not indicate causality. D Depending on the particular study, a specific variable may be the dependent or the independent variable. The causal or associative direction between variables determines the classification of the variables as independent or dependent.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Pages 29-30
9. A nurse’s research question is, “How does maternal employment among health care professionals affect infant health during the first 6 months of life?” In this question, the dependent variable is:
a. infant health.
b. maternal employment.
c. first 6 months of life.
d. health care professionals.
ANS: A
Feedback A Infant health is the consequence or presumed effect that changes regarding maternal employment. Thus it is the dependent variable. B Maternal employment is presumed to effect a change in the infant’s behavior (the dependent variable). Thus, maternal employment is the independent variable. C The first 6 months of life refers to the time the subjects (mothers and infants) will be observed in the study. D Health care professionals constitute the population to be studied.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 29
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10. A nurse has defined the research question as, “How does oral nutritional supplementation during dialysis treatments affect the serum albumin levels of adult patients who have chronic kidney disease Stage 5?” In this question, the independent variable is:
a. adult patients with chronic kidney disease Stage 5.
b. oral nutritional supplementation.
c. during dialysis treatments.
d. serum albumin levels.
ANS: B
Feedback A The population being studied is adult patients with chronic kidney disease Stage 5. B Oral nutritional supplementation is the intervention administered to effect a change in the patients’ serum albumin levels. Thus, oral nutritional supplementation is the independent variable. C The time of the intervention is defined as during dialysis treatments. D The study expects to affect the serum albumin levels of patients who receive the intervention. Thus, serum albumin levels constitute the dependent variable.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 29
11. A nurse has defined the research question as, “Is there a relationship between self-esteem and body weight among postmenopausal women?” What type of research-question format (or research design) is implied by this question?
a. Correlational non-experimental
b. Comparative non-experimental
c. Quantitative experimental
d. Phenomenological non-experimental
ANS: A
Feedback A Self-esteem and body weight are variables that are related in an associative way. The word relationship strongly suggests correlational design studies. B A comparative non-experimental study would compare differences between two or more groups. C A quantitative experimental study would include an intervention and measure its effect numerically. D A phenomenological design would measure the meaning or impact of a phenomenon; “the lived experience.”
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 30, Table 2.2
12. A nurse has defined the research question as, “What is the lived experience of late-stage pregnancy loss among women older than 35 years?” What type of research-question format (or research design) is implied by this question?
a. Correlational non-experimental
b. Comparative non-experimental
c. Quantitative experimental
d. Phenomenological non-experimental
ANS: D
Feedback A This research question does not indicate an association between variables, which would be studied in a correlational design. B A comparative non-experimental study would compare differences between two or more groups. C A quantitative experimental study would include an intervention and measure its effect numerically. D The question concerns “lived experience,” which implies a grounded-theory study design.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 30, Table 2.2
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13. Which research question is testable as currently written?
a. Should parents addicted to crack cocaine be permitted to raise their children?
b. Is the classroom an appropriate place to teach sex education to 10-year-old children?
c. Are older adults living in Helped-living facilities satisfied with their level of social interaction?
d. Is a positive HIV/AIDS status a sufficient reason for limiting the employment of elementary school teachers?
ANS: C
Feedback A This question suggests a value statement that is not testable. B This question suggests a value statement that is not testable. C This example implies variables that can be measured and suggests a comparative non-experimental design study. The independent variable is residing in Helped-living facilities, as compared with not residing in Helped-living facilities. The dependent variable is social interaction. D This question suggests a value statement that is not testable.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 29
14. What is the purpose of a hypothesis for any study?
a. To identify the dependent and independent variables
b. To provide direction for the study by indicating the expected outcomes
c. To define the appropriate measures needed to test the research problem
d. To provide a means of determining the feasibility of the proposed study
ANS: B
Feedback A A hypothesis does not define the variables but makes a statement about the relationship between two or more variables. B A hypothesis is a declarative statement about two or more variables that predicts an expected outcome. C A hypothesis does not define the appropriate measures needed to test the research question. The hypothesis does provide direction for the analysis and interpretation of data. D A hypothesis does not determine the feasibility of a research problem. A study’s feasibility is determined by practical considerations such as availability of subjects, equipment, facilities, and money.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 33
15. Which hypothesis fails to meet the criteria of testability?
a. Proper handwashing prevents the spread of infection.
b. Consistent practice of low-impact aerobic exercise will increase coordination among older adults.
c. Patients who used guided imagery during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures will have reduced perceptions of emotional distress compared with patients who do not use guided imagery during MRI.
d. Postoperative patients who receive around-the-clock scheduled analgesics will have lower levels of pain compared with postoperative patients who receive analgesics on an as-needed (PRN) schedule.
ANS: A
Feedback A This statement does not suggest that there is a predicted outcome as specifically as the other examples. The term proper is value laden and nonspecific. Both proper handwashing and spread of infection require more specific definition. B This hypothesis includes a predicted outcome. C This hypothesis includes a predicted outcome. D This hypothesis includes a predicted outcome.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing (Analysis) REF: Page 31
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16. Which hypothesis is non-directional?
a. Hospitals with an infection-control nurse will have fewer instances of sepsis among inpatients than hospitals without an infection-control nurse.
b. There will be a greater weight loss among dieting patients who receive a weekly supportive telephone call from a dietitian than among dieting patients who do not receive a weekly supportive phone call.
c. There will be a difference in stage of disease for prostate cancer among men who had an abnormal prostate-specific antigen screening compared with men who had an abnormal digital rectal examination screening.
d. Children who receive weekly counseling for 1 year after the death of a parent will perform better in school than children who do not receive weekly counseling after the death of a parent.
ANS: C
Feedback A This hypothesis gives the expected direction (i.e., fewer). B This hypothesis gives the expected direction (i.e., greater). C This hypothesis has no expected direction. It suggests a difference but does not indicate the direction of the difference. D This hypothesis gives the expected direction (i.e., better).
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 36
17. The nurse has defined the hypothesis as, “There will be no difference in the number of adverse events among patients discharged 2 days after an abdominal hysterectomy compared with patients discharged 4 days after an abdominal hysterectomy.” This statement is an example of what?
a. Directional hypothesis
b. Non-directional hypothesis
c. Research hypothesis
d. Null hypothesis
ANS: D
Feedback A Because no direction is indicated, this is not a directional hypothesis. B A non-directional hypothesis indicates the existence of a relationship between variables but does not indicate the direction. This hypothesis indicates no relationship between variables. C A research (or scientific) hypothesis is a statement of the expected relationship of the variables. This hypothesis indicates no relationship between variables. D This is a null (or statistical) hypothesis, stating that there is no relationship between the independent (postoperative days) and dependent (adverse events) variables. If in the statistical analysis a significant relationship is found, the null hypothesis would be rejected.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 36
18. The nurse notes these statements in a research article: This study explores changes in coping and emotion that occur between the preoperative and the postoperative period. Further, the relationships between coping and emotion preoperatively and postoperatively are evaluated. Finally, the influence of preoperative coping and emotion on postoperative emotion is documented. This section represents which part of a research study?
a. Results
b. Methods
c. Purpose
d. Hypothesis
ANS: C
Feedback A No results were described in the passage. B Although methods are implied, the passage does not include the specific methodology. C The statements describe the aims or goals that the investigator hoped to achieve with the research and thus reflect the purpose of the study. D The passage does not state the hypothesis of the study.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 32
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19. A nurse states the purpose of a research study as, “This study will compare the effect of warm and cold applications on the resolution of intravenous (IV) infiltrations in hospitalized older-adult patients in the early postoperative period.” In this statement, what constitutes the independent variable(s)?
a. Postoperative older adult patients
b. Early postoperative period
c. Warm and cold applications
d. Resolution of IV infiltrations
ANS: C
Feedback A Postoperative older adult patients represent the population to be studied. B Early postoperative period indicates the timing of the intervention. C Warm and cold applications represent the independent variables, which will be manipulated and influence the dependent (outcome) variable resolution of IV infiltrations. D Resolution of IV infiltrations represents the dependent (outcome) variable of the study.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 29
20. A nurse describes the hypothesis of a research study as, “There is a positive relationship between nurses’ attitudes toward AIDS patients and the number of AIDS patients they have cared for in practice.” This statement is an example of:
a. null hypothesis.
b. non-directional hypothesis.
c. directional hypothesis.
d. causal hypothesis.
ANS: C
Feedback A The statement is not a null hypothesis because a null hypothesis specifies no relationship. B The statement is a directional hypothesis, not a non-directional hypothesis. C Because a positive relationship is specified, the hypothesis is directional. D Because the statement indicates a relationship between variables, the hypothesis indicates an association, rather than a cause-and-effect relationship, between variables.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 33
21. The nurse has identified a patient situation that may be an area for study. The initial review of the literature helps the investigator to identify what?
a. The number of subjects required for the study
b. The appropriate statistical tests to analyze the data
c. The need to extend knowledge in a particular area
d. The instruments needed to collect data during the study
ANS: C
Feedback A The number of subjects needed for a study is part of methodology, determined after the research question and hypotheses are determined. B Statistical tests are part of methodology, determined after the research question and hypotheses are determined. C The initial literature review helps further define the research question by identifying gaps in the literature, the need for replication of prior research, or the need to extend the knowledge base in a particular research area. It also identifies variables essential to consider in refining the research question. D The instruments to be used in the study part of methodology, determined after the research question and hypotheses are determined.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 27
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Chapter 03: Gathering and Appraising the Literature LoBiondo-Wood & Haber: Nursing Research: Methods and Critical Appraisal for Evidence-Based Practice, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. The review of literature is important to the research process because:
a. it guides all steps of the research process.
b. it provides a vehicle to disseminate the findings of the study.
c. it guides only the conceptualization of the problem statement.
d. it identifies only gaps or inconsistencies in the knowledge base.
ANS: A
Feedback A The review of the literature is important throughout all stages of a research study. B A completed study may be published to disseminate the findings of a study and thus become one citation in a literature review for future studies. However, the literature review does not ensure this. C The review of the literature guides the problem statement as it is defined along with all other parts and stages of a research study. D The review of the literature contributes to consistencies in the literature, locates instruments used to measure variables, identifies experts on topics, etc.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Pages 46-47
2. The nurse researcher locates a reappraised commentary for a source of literature. The next step for the researcher should be:
a. move on to another literature source that does not have a commentary.
b. discard the commentary unless the source is a systematic review.
c. decide whether to locate and critically appraise the primary source.
d. recognize that such commentaries are not relevant for the novice researcher.
ANS: C
Feedback A The commentary can be very useful and should not be readily discarded. B The commentary can be useful regardless of the source being a systematic review. C After reading the commentary, the researcher can decide if the primary source is relevant to the PICO question and should be located and read in its entirety. D Although there are limitations to the use of commentaries, they certainly can be useful to the novice researcher by indicating if a primary source should be located and read.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 52
3. A nurse researcher includes refereed journals in the literature review because:
a. the articles are critiqued by a panel of external reviewers.
b. the articles selected for publication are related to a specific field of knowledge. c. the journals encourage competition among authors to have their articles published. d. the journals publish only articles that are primary sources of research findings.
ANS: A
Feedback A The articles are critiqued by a panel of external expert readers. B Articles selected for publication are sources of the latest information about a great variety of fields of knowledge. C There is no overt competition among authors because refereed journals have blinded reviews in most cases. D Refereed journals are often the first source of primary research findings, but they may also include other types of research articles.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 55
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4. A research article has undergone a blind review for a peer-reviewed journal. The nurse reading the research article should understand which of the following about this review process?
a. The reviewers of the article did not know the identity of the other reviewers.
b. The reviewers of the article did not know the identity of the author.
c. The criteria used to review the article were not known to the author.
d. The criteria used to review the article were determined by the reviewers.
ANS: B
Feedback A The reviewers of the article may or may not know the identity of the other reviewers. B In a blind review, the manuscript to be reviewed does not include the name of the author. C A standard set of scholarly criteria is used to review the article. The criteria are usually known to the author. D The criteria used to review the article are established by expert reviewers appointed by the publication’s editors.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 55
5. For which of these reasons would a nurse researcher decide to use secondary sources in a review of the literature?
a. They provide material written by the person who conducted the study.
b. They provide a different way of looking at specific issues or problems.
c. They define the relationship of two or more variables affecting an outcome.
d. They supplement the body of nursing knowledge in a specific area of practice.
ANS: D
Feedback A Secondary sources are authored by an individual other than the researcher who conducted the study. B The evidence is distilled by an expert and usually provides a critical Assessment or response to a study, not necessarily a different way of looking at specific issues or problems. C The relationship of two or more variables affecting an outcome defines a hypothesis. D Secondary sources published in refereed journals usually include implications for practice and the work’s contributions to the development of nursing science.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 48, Table 3-1
6. Which is an example of a primary source in a literature review?
a. A video recorded interview of a nurse researcher
b. A critique of a nursing research study
c. An edited textbook on nursing research
d. A review of theoretical frameworks used in nursing research
ANS: A
Feedback A Primary sources include articles, books, diaries, films, and oral histories of the person who conducted the study or developed the theory. B A critique of a nursing research study is a secondary source. C An edited textbook on nursing research is a secondary source. D A review of theoretical frameworks is a secondary source.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 48, Table 3-1
7. Which is an example of a secondary source in a literature review?
a. An oral history of a nurse researcher
b. An investigator’s report of a research study
c. A summary and critique of another’s scholarly work
d. An autobiography of a developer of a nursing theory
ANS: C
Feedback A An oral history of a nurse researcher is a primary source. B An investigator’s report of a research study is a primary source. C Secondary sources include materials written by persons other than the person who conducted a research study or developed a particular theory. D An autobiography of a developer of a nursing theory is a primary source.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 48, Table 3-1
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 3
8. Which of these electronic databases is the most relevant and frequently used source for nursing literature?
a. MEDLINE
b. CINAHL
c. Cochrane Collaboration
d. National Guideline Clearinghouse
ANS: B
Feedback A MEDLINE includes some nursing sources, but it is not the most comprehensive database for nursing. B CINAHL is the most relevant and frequently used source for nursing literature, covering nursing and related literature from 1956 to the present. C The Cochrane Collaboration provides access to abstracts from Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews but is not a nursing literature source. D The National Guideline Clearinghouse provides evidence-based clinical practice guidelines but is not a nursing literature source.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 50
9. When comparing MEDLINE and CINAHL databases, which of these differences will the nurse find?
a. The coverage of MEDLINE dates back to 1975, whereas the coverage of CINAHL dates back to 1980.
b. MEDLINE’s journal coverage includes more than 10,000 biomedical journals, whereas CINAHL’s coverage includes more than 5000 journals.
c. MEDLINE’s database size is more than 21 million records, whereas CINAHL’s database size is more than 3.2 million records.
d. MEDLINE has more than 500 Evidence-Based Care Sheets, whereas CINAHL has more than 50 Evidence-Based Care Sheets.
ANS: C
Feedback A The coverage of MEDLINE dates back to 1947, whereas the coverage of CINAHL dates back to 1937. B MEDLINE’s journal coverage includes more than 5600 biomedical journals, whereas CINAHL’s coverage includes more than 5000 journals. C MEDLINE’s database size is more than 21 million records, whereas CINAHL’s database size is more than 3.2 million records. D CINAHL has more than 130 Evidence-Based Care Sheets, whereas MEDLINE has a Clinical Queries tool to filter for systematic reviews.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 52, Table 3-3
10. A general timeline for a literature search for an academic paper or project is to go back how far in the literature?
a. At least the last 6 months to 2 years
b. At least the past 3 to 5 years
c. At least the past 6 to 10 years
d. At least the past 12 to 15 years
ANS: B
Feedback A The most recent 6 months to 2 years is an insufficient timeline for an academic paper or project. B The past 3 to 5 years is a sufficient timeline for an academic paper or project because recent literature is relevant and may include classic references in reference lists. C Six to 10 years is probably longer than the timeline needed for the search. D Twelve to 15 years is likely to be much longer than the timeline needed for the search.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 57
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 4
11. A nurse is encouraged to use a Boolean operator to more efficiently perform an electronic search of the literature. A Boolean operator is:
a. a specialized reference librarian who can Help in searches of electronic medical and nursing databases.
b. a software program that enables combinations of permissions and restrictions for a database search.
c. a definition of the relationship between words or groups of words in a literature search such as “and.”
d. a clinical Question Assignment that can be performed to focus on a particular clinical issue or practice question.
ANS: C
Feedback A Although reference librarians can be helpful for electronic database searches, they are not Boolean operators. B A Boolean operator is not a software program but refers to variables that define an electronic database search. C A Boolean operator defines the relationships between words or groups of words in the literature search. These include the words, “and,” “or,” and “not.” D A Boolean operator is not a Question Assignment for a clinical issue or practice question.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 59
12. Which command is an example of a Boolean connection used when ordering an electronic literature search?
a. Explode topic
b. Limit search to abstracts
c. Search from years 2003 to 2013
d. Search diabetes diagnosis and treatment
ANS: D
Feedback A “Explode topic” is a search strategy, not a Boolean connection. B Limiting the search to abstracts is not a Boolean connection. C Specifying the time limit of the search is not a Boolean connection. D Boolean connections include the terms “and,” “not,” and “or,” which link thesaurus terms and influence the search.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 59
13. Which website is an important source for clinical evidence but limited as a provider of primary documents for literature reviews?
a. CINAHL
b. MEDLINE
c. Cochrane Library
d. PsycINFO
ANS: C
Feedback A CINAHL contains many primary source citations. B MEDLINE contains many primary source citations. C The Cochrane Library is important as a source for clinical evidence but limited as a provider of primary documents for literature reviews. D PsycINFO includes professional and academic literature in psychology.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 56, Table 3-4
14. What is considered to be essential to a thorough and relevant review of the literature?
a. Use of both published and unpublished sources
b. Critical Assessment of mainly primary sources
c. Liberal use of secondary sources
d. Assessment of both quantitative and qualitative sources
ANS: B
Feedback A Although both published and unpublished sources may be used, it is the Assessment of primary published sources that is most important. B A thorough and accurate Assessment of mainly primary sources of information is necessary for a thorough and relevant literature review. C Secondary sources may be used, but they should be used sparingly. D Although both quantitative and qualitative sources may be used, it is not necessary to include both in a review of the literature.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 48, Table 3-1
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 5
15. Which objective of a review of the literature is unique to a review for research purposes, rather than a review for evidence-based practice?
a. Discover conceptual frameworks used to examine problems.
b. Generate useful research questions and hypotheses.
c. Determine what is unknown about a subject, as well as what requires clarification.
d. Uncover a new practice intervention or gain support for current interventions and policies.
ANS: B
Feedback A Conceptual frameworks are useful for both formal research and evidence-based practice. B For research purposes, the literature review focuses the study by discovering gaps or conflicts in the literature and identifying areas where little research evidence exists. This helps define the research questions and hypotheses. C Both formal research and evidence-based practice are concerned with what is known about a subject, as well as what requires clarification. D Uncovering new practice interventions or gaining support for current practices is primarily in the realm of evidence-based practice.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 48
16. Which of these factors limits the usefulness of the World Wide Web as a source of information for research consumers?
a. Downloading from the Web can be a slow process.
b. Non-text capabilities reduce the professionalism of presentations.
c. There is little quality control over the information on many websites.
d. Much of the available information is too technical to be understood by the casual reader.
ANS: C
Feedback A Downloading is often a rapid process. B This is not an accurate statement about the professionalism of presentations and non-text capabilities. C Many sources are not data based and primary sources. It is not always evident which sources are data based and which are not. D Much information on the Web is comprehensible to the casual reader.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 53
17. When the nurse researcher conducts an electronic literature search, the search yields more than 7000 citations for the topic. The researcher interprets these findings as:
a. the search was comprehensive.
b. the key words were not sufficiently narrowed.
c. the topic does not require additional investigation.
d. the topic has broad application across health care disciplines.
ANS: B
Feedback A The search was too broad and included too many citations to scroll through. B Limiting the focus is necessary using thesaurus terms. C The topic required a more manageable number of retrievals. D The topic is too broad and may or may not apply across various health care disciplines.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Pages 58-59
18. Why would a nurse researcher choose to use multiple online fee-based databases such as CINAHL and MEDLINE?
a. The charges for these services are minimal.
b. Databases are updated weekly or monthly.
c. An independent professional critique of each work accompanies the full text.
d. The service provides translations to English of articles written in other languages.
ANS: B
Feedback A Libraries pay for database use through subscriptions. B Databases are updated monthly or weekly. C Critiques do not necessarily accompany full texts of all citations. D Translations are not provided; citations may be excluded by specifying the preferred language.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 50
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Chapter 04: Theoretical Frameworks for Research LoBiondo-Wood & Haber: Nursing Research: Methods and Critical Appraisal for Evidence-Based Practice, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. Which phrase correctly defines a theory?
a. The operational definition of the study’s conceptual framework
b. The assumptions and beliefs of the worldview of the researcher
c. A set of interrelated concepts that provides a systematic view of a phenomenon
d. A researcher’s best guess of the direction of the relationship between variables
ANS: C
Feedback A The operational definition of the study specifies how the findings will be measured. B The assumptions and beliefs of the worldview of the researcher is the paradigm or philosophical framework of the researcher. C A theory is a set of interrelated concepts that provides a systematic view of a phenomenon. D The researcher’s best guess of the direction of the relationship between variables is a hypothesis.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 68
2. How are theory and practice interrelated for the hospital-based nurse researcher?
a. Practice is the operational definition of theory.
b. Practice provides the opportunity to test theory.
c. Theory provides the evidence on which practice is based.
d. Theory generates questions that are used to refine practice.
ANS: B
Feedback A Theory is abstract and is not operationally defined as practice. B Practice environments provide settings in which to test theory. C Theory is a guide for research, and research provides evidence for practice. D Research helps to refine questions related to practice.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 69
3. Which nursing theory is classified as a Grand Nursing Theory?
a. Polk’s Theory of Resilience
b. Mishel’s Uncertainty in Illness Theory
c. Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory
d. Im’s Theory of Caucasians’ Cancer Pain Experience
ANS: C
Feedback A Polk’s Theory of Resilience is considered a Middle-Range Nursing Theory because it contains a limited number of concepts and is focused on a limited aspect of reality. B Michel’s Uncertainty in Illness Theory is considered a Middle-Range Nursing Theory for the reasons described for option A. C Orem’s theory is a Grand Nursing Theory since it is an all-inclusive conceptual structure that includes views on person, health, and environment. D Im’s Theory of Caucasians’ Cancer Pain Experience is considered a Situation-Specific Nursing Theory because it is narrow in scope and explains a small aspect of the phenomena of interest to nurses.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 71
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4. Situation-specific nursing theories are becoming more popular in nursing research due to:
a. increased emphasis on evidence-based practice.
b. increased need for broad and generalizable models to explain phenomena.
c. decreased resources for funding of grand theory development.
d. decreased use of theories borrowed from other disciplines.
ANS: A
Feedback A Situation-specific theories provide closer links between theory and practice, which is important because of the increased demand for evidence-based practice. B At present, there is no increase in need for grand nursing theories that are generalizable across populations, health, and environments. C Resources for funding grand theory development in nursing have always been limited. D Nursing frequently borrows concepts, models, and theories from many other disciplines.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Pages 72-73
5. A graphic or symbolic representation of a phenomenon not directly observable, which allows the reader to visualize key constructs and their interrelationships, is:
a. a concept.
b. a conceptual definition.
c. an operational definition.
d. a model.
ANS: D
Feedback A A concept is an image or symbolic representation of an abstract idea that can be concrete (e.g., weight) or abstract (e.g., hope). B A conceptual framework defines or explains the concept as it is rooted in the theoretical literature. C The operational definition specifies how a concept will be measured. D A model is a graphic or symbolic representation of a phenomenon that allows a reader to visualize the key concepts/constructs and their identified interrelationships.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 69, Box 4.1
6. How is a model related to a concept or concepts?
a. A model tests conceptual theories.
b. A concept defines the purpose of a model.
c. Relationships between or among concepts are demonstrated in a model.
d. Concepts generate the theoretical basis for knowledge depicted in a model.
ANS: C
Feedback A A model does not test theories. B A concept does not define a model. C A model allows the reader to visualize the key concepts and their identified interrelationships. D Concepts do not generate theory for knowledge depicted in a model.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 77, Box 4.4
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 3
7. Pender’s health promotion model is an example of what type of theory?
a. Grand nursing theory
b. Middle-range nursing theory
c. Situation-specific nursing theory
d. Another discipline’s theory applied to nursing
ANS: B
Feedback A Pender’s health promotion model is not a grand nursing theory or all-inclusive model to describe nursing as a whole. B Pender’s health promotion model is a middle-range nursing theory focused on a limited aspect of reality. C Pender’s health promotion model is not a situation-specific theory or narrow in scope, explaining a small aspect of a phenomenon. D Pender’s health promotion model is not a theory from another discipline applied to nursing; it is a nursing model.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 72
8. Which statement is an operational definition of a concept?
a. Death anxiety is an uncomfortable feeling on contemplation of one’s own death, measured by Templar’s Death Anxiety Scale (Templar, 1986).
b. Pain is a pattern of responses to protect the organism from harm (Sternbach, 1979).
c. Maternal identity entails maternal cognitions and affect with regard to the maternal-infant relational system (Walker & Montgomery, 1994).
d. Spirituality is a way of being or experiencing that comes about through an awareness of a transcendent dimension and one’s identifiable values with regard to self, other, nature, and whatever one considers to be ultimate (Elkins, 1988).
ANS: A
Feedback A An operational definition of death anxiety is provided because it states how death anxiety will be measured. B This statement is a conceptual definition of pain. C This statement is a conceptual definition of maternal identity. D This statement is a conceptual definition of spirituality.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Pages 69-70, Box 4.1, Table 4.1
9. When reading a report of results of a nursing research study, the nurse notices that the theoretical framework is drawn from a discipline other than nursing. When critiquing the theoretical framework, the question that should be of highest priority is:
a. Does the research have implications across disciplines?
b. Is the researcher a recognized leader in the discipline of nursing?
c. Does the author have special expertise or education in the discipline from which the theoretical framework is derived?
d. Has the author clearly indicated the meaning of the theoretical framework to the study and linked it to nursing?
ANS: D
Feedback A The author should cite the implications of the research for nursing. B The author of a research article need not be a recognized leader in nursing. C The author should have an understanding of the framework but does not need to have expertise in the discipline from which it is derived. D The theoretical framework does not have to come from nursing but should be linked to the practice of nursing.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 78
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 4
10. Which research report title suggests that theory was generated as the outcome of the study, rather than being used as the framework for the study?
a. Women’s experiences of undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery (Banner, D., et al., 2011)
b. Couple functioning and posttraumatic stress symptoms in U.S. army couples: The role of resilience (Melvin, K.C., et al., 2011)
c. A randomized, clinical trial of education or motivational-interviewing-based coaching compared to usual care to improve cancer pain management (Thomas, M.L., et al., 2012)
d. A predictive and moderating model of psychosocial resilience in adolescents (Tusaie, K., et al., 2007)
ANS: A
Feedback A The study of women’s experiences of a specific cardiac surgical procedure suggests a qualitative research study and the generation of a situation-specific theory or model. B The title suggests the use of several models or middle-range theories (resilience, posttraumatic stress disorder) as a framework to study couple functioning. C The title describes a quantitative study regarding the effect on cancer pain management (dependent variable) of two approaches—educational coaching vs standard care (independent variables). Thus the implied theoretical framework has to do with motivational-interviewing-based coaching. D The title suggests the use of the theoretical framework of stress, coping, and resilience as applied to adolescents.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Pages 73-74
11. Which research report title suggests that theory was used as the framework for the study, rather than being generated as the outcome of the study?
a. The experiences of nurse practitioners providing health care to the homeless (Seilor, A.J. & Moss, V.A., 2012)
b. A transformative decision-making process for mammography screening among rural, low-income women (Purtzer, M.S., 2012)
c. A randomized, clinical trial of education or motivational-interviewing-based coaching compared to usual care to improve cancer pain management (Thomas, M.L., et al., 2012)
d. Older adults’ perceptions of feeling safe in an intensive care unit (Lasiter, S., 2011)
ANS: C
Feedback A The title states that the lived experiences of nurse practitioners were examined, indicating a qualitative study with findings that could become part of a framework for nurse practitioners to use and for other researchers to study. B The title indicates that the experience regarding mammography screening decisions of a specific group (rural, low-income women) was studied to identify themes and develop a model, the transformative decision-making process. C The title describes a quantitative study regarding the effect on cancer pain management (dependent variable) of two approaches—educational coaching vs standard care (independent variables). Thus the theoretical framework for the study has to do with motivational-interviewing-based coaching. D The title indicates that the lived experience of a specific group (older adults) in a specific context (intensive care unit) was studied in regard to their feeling safe. This is a qualitative study to identify themes that form a model for future studies of the phenomenon.
Chapter 11: Systematic Reviews and Clinical Practice Guidelines LoBiondo-Wood & Haber: Nursing Research: Methods and Critical Appraisal for Evidence-Based Practice, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. Which of the following terms means a summation and assessment of research studies found in the literature based on a clearly focused question?
a. Meta-analysis
b. Systematic review
c. Cochrane collaboration
d. Integrative review
ANS: B
Feedback A A meta-analysis is a systematic summary using statistical techniques to assess and combine studies of the same design to obtain a precise estimate of effect (impact of an intervention on the dependent variable/outcomes or association between variables). B A systematic review is a summation and assessment of research studies found in the literature based on a clearly focused question that uses systematic and explicit methods to identify, select, critically appraise, and analyze relevant data from the selected studies to summarize the findings in a focused area. C The Cochrane Collaboration is an international organization that prepares and maintains a body of systematic reviews that focus on health care interventions. D An integrative review is the broadest category of review. It can include theoretical literature, research literature, or both, and may include methodology studies, a theory review, or the results of differing research studies with wide-ranging clinical implications.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 200
2. The highest level of evidence is known to be provided by:
a. Meta-analysis
b. Systematic review
c. Effect size
d. Integrative review
ANS: A
Feedback A Meta-analysis provides Level I evidence, the highest level of evidence, as it statistically analyzes and integrates the results of many studies. B Systematic review is not known to provide the same level of evidence as meta-analysis. C Effect sizes are calculated using the difference in the averages scores between the intervention and control groups from each study. D Integrative review is not known to provide the same level of evidence as meta-analysis.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Pages 202-203
3. What is known to contain bibliographical information on articles and books on reviewing research and methodological studies?
a. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
b. Database of Abstracts of Review of Effects
c. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials
d. Cochrane Methodology Register
ANS: D
Feedback A The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews contains full text Cochrane reviews. B The Database of Abstracts of Review of Effects (DARE) contains critical assessments and abstracts of other systematic reviews that conform to quality criteria. C The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) contains information on studies published in conference proceedings and other sources not available in other databases. D The Cochrane Methodology Register is known to contain bibliographical information on articles and books on reviewing research and methodological studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 205, Box 11.3
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.
4. What source contains information on studies published in conference proceedings and other sources not available in other databases?
a. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
b. Database of Abstracts of Review of Effects
c. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials
d. Cochrane Methodology Register
ANS: C
Feedback A The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews contains full text Cochrane reviews. B The Database of Abstracts of Review of Effects (DARE) contains critical assessments and abstracts of other systematic reviews that conform to quality criteria. C The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) contains information on studies published in conference proceedings and other sources not available in other databases. D The Cochrane Methodology Register is known to contain bibliographical information on articles and books on reviewing research and methodological studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension)
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. Which are methods for searching and integrating the literature related to a specific clinical issue? (Select all that apply.) a. Meta-analysis b. Systematic review c. Cochrane collaboration d. Integrative review
ANS: B, D
Feedback Correct Systematic and integrative reviews are not designs per se but rather methods for searching and integrating the literature related to a specific clinical issue. Incorrect A meta-analysis is a systematic summary using statistical techniques to assess and combine studies of the same design to obtain a precise estimate of effect (impact of an intervention on the dependent variable/outcomes or association between variables). The Cochrane Collaboration is an international organization that prepares and maintains a body of systematic reviews that focus on health care interventions.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 205
ORDERING
1. Put the following in order from first to last.
_10__ data collection
_3__ plain language summary
_7__ type of studies reviewed
_1__ authors and contact person
_2__ abstract
_4__ background of the question
_8__ types of participants
__5_ objectives of the search
_14__ implications for research and practice
__6_ methods for selecting studies for review
_9__ search methods for finding studies
_11__ analysis of the located studies
__12_ results
_15__ references and tables
__13_ discussion
ANS: 10, 3, 7, 1, 2, 4, 8, 5, 14, 6, 9, 11, 12, 15, 13

Chapter 05: Introduction to Qualitative Research LoBiondo-Wood & Haber: Nursing Research: Methods and Critical Appraisal for Evidence-Based Practice, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. A characteristic of qualitative research is data that are:
a. in text form.
b. dichotomous.
c. free of patterns.
d. inappropriate for analysis.
ANS: A
Feedback A A distinctive characteristic of qualitative research studies is that data consist of text (words), not numbers as in quantitative research. B Dichotomous data are nominal and frequently found in quantitative studies. C Patterns emerge from qualitative research data. D The data generated by qualitative studies are appropriate for content analysis.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 89
2. A nurse researcher who is considering whether to use a qualitative research design should be aware that the focus of qualitative research is:
a. measuring one or more human characteristics.
b. controlling variables that interfere with the phenomenon being studied.
c. viewing human beings as composites of many body systems.
d. studying human experiences that occur within a person’s natural setting.
ANS: D
Feedback A Measuring variables (one or more human characteristics) is not a focus of qualitative research. B Control of variables is consistent with quantitative research design. C Qualitative studies view human beings in a holistic way, not as the sum of parts. D Human experience occurring in a person’s natural setting is the focus of qualitative studies, although investigators may not always go to the setting where the person experienced the phenomenon.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 97
3. The determining factor for a researcher in selecting a qualitative research approach should be:
a. the need to test a theory.
b. the nature of the research question.
c. the age and gender of the research participants.
d. the availability of valid instruments to measure the phenomenon.
ANS: B
Feedback A Qualitative studies are often represented as theory-generating, not theory-testing, studies. B Each research method originates in a philosophy of research and matches the nature of the research question. C These demographic variables may be characteristics of subjects or participants in quantitative or qualitative research studies. D Instruments to measure variables are not used in qualitative research studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 97
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 2
4. Which of these terms is synonymous with paradigm?
a. Empiricism
b. Worldview
c. Holism
d. Viewpoint
ANS: B
Feedback A Empiricism refers to the reliance on observation and experimentation, i.e., quantitative research. B A paradigm is a worldview, a philosophical or theoretical framework. C Holism is a theory that the universe and living nature are correctly seen as interacting wholes, more than the sum of their parts. D A viewpoint is a way of looking at or thinking about a subject.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 100
5. In which of these circumstances should a nurse researcher select a qualitative research design instead of a quantitative design?
a. The time for data collection is limited.
b. The research question is clinical in nature.
c. The goal is to view the phenomenon in the same way as those who experience it.
d. The researcher is a novice with minimal experience in scientific problem solving.
ANS: C
Feedback A Some qualitative studies take extended times to complete. B Both qualitative and quantitative research designs may be used to answer research questions that are clinical in nature. C This describes qualitative research designs. The interpretive, naturalistic approach values the lived experience from the perspectives of participants and informants. D Novice researchers are challenged by both qualitative and quantitative research studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 89
6. Which research topic would most likely be studied through a qualitative research approach?
a. The meaning of health and health promotion among low-income Southern rural women.
b. Changes in hope and coping in older adults during rehabilitation after hip fracture.
c. Exercise effects on fatigue and emotional distress during radiation therapy for breast cancer.
d. Older adults and HIV/AIDS: The relationship of perceived risk and willingness to interact with individuals with HIV/AIDS.
ANS: A
Feedback A Qualitative research focuses on what experiences mean to people. B This topic suggests a descriptive study design. C This topic suggests an experimental study design. D This topic suggests an ex post facto or correlational study design.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 89
7. A nurse’s research question is, “What is the grief experience of women older than 30 years from rural Mexico who have a late-stage pregnancy loss?” The aspect of the question that represents the study’s context is:
a. late-stage pregnancy loss.
b. women older than 30 years.
c. grief experience.
d. rural Mexico.
ANS: D
Feedback A “Late-term pregnancy loss” describes the precipitating cause of the topic (grief) to be studied. B “Gender and age” designate demographic characteristics of participants. C “Grief experience” is the phenomenon to be studied. D “Rural Mexico” is the location (context) where the experience occurred for the participants.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 89
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 3
8. Which aim of research is characteristic of or appropriate for qualitative research methods?
a. Control
b. Prediction
c. Explanation
d. Understanding
ANS: D
Feedback A A characteristic of quantitative or empirical research is the control of variables. B A characteristic of quantitative or empirical research is prediction of outcomes. C A characteristic of quantitative or empirical research is providing explanation of events. D Meaning and understanding of human experience are characteristics of qualitative research.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 89
9. Which research study characteristic would be inappropriate for qualitative methods?
a. Testing a new hypothesis
b. Using an intensive approach to data collection
c. Employing inductive analysis of the data
d. Examining individual responses to a nonmodifiable situation
ANS: A
Feedback A New hypotheses are tested by quantitative, not qualitative, studies. B Both quantitative and qualitative studies use intensive data-collection approaches. C Inductive analysis is appropriate for some types of qualitative studies. D Qualitative studies examine the meaning of an experience to individuals.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 99
10. How is the number of subjects for participation determined for a qualitative study?
a. Data are collected from new subjects until data saturation is reached.
b. The number of subjects is the number available at a specific location.
c. The number of subjects is the number available within the researcher’s specified time frame.
d. A power analysis of data collected in a pilot study is used to determine the number.
ANS: A
Feedback A Researchers generally continue to recruit participants until they have reached data saturation, which means that nothing new is emerging from the interviews. B At times the researcher may have to locate additional subjects at various locations until saturation is achieved. C The number of subjects is not related to time frame because data will need to be collected until saturation is reached. D Power analysis is used to determine sample size in quantitative research studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 94
11. A description typical of a qualitative research study is:
a. deductive reasoning is used.
b. truth is a subject’s perception of reality.
c. sample size is determined before the study begins.
d. one or more variables are measured in a context-free setting.
ANS: B
Feedback A Deductive reasoning is typical of quantitative studies. B Qualitative studies attempt to interpret phenomena in terms of the meaning people bring to them. Thus, truth is the subject’s perception/expression of reality. C Sample size is predetermined in quantitative studies. D Measurement is characteristic of quantitative studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 94
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12. How does the nurse researcher know when data saturation has been reached?
a. When the participants all agree on the themes derived from the study
b. When the ideas or information coming from new participants have been expressed previously by other participants
c. When the emerging themes are congruent with those developed as a result of previous studies of the same phenomenon
d. When the participants are no longer interested or willing to discuss their experiences or feelings
ANS: B
Feedback A Participant agreement on themes is not an influence on data saturation. B Data saturation occurs when the researcher recognizes that he or she has heard themes before in multiple prior interviews. C Phenomenologists do not use previous studies to determine data saturation because each new group of participants has its own unique set of subjective experiences compared with past groups in similar studies. D Lack of interest of participants does not indicate data saturation.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 94
13. A nurse reads a qualitative study concerning the grief process. Later, the nurse explains to a grieving widow that grief is a process and that many others have successfully made their way through the process. The nurse is using which clinical application of research?
a. Insight or empathy
b. Assessment of status or progress
c. Anticipatory guidance
d. Coaching
ANS: C
Feedback A Insight or empathy means that the nurse would be better able to understand the behaviors of a patient. B Assessment of status or progress means that the nurse can assess how the patient is moving through the grief process. C Anticipatory guidance means that the nurse can explain the various stages of grief to the patient and reassure her that others have successfully made their way through the grief process. D Coaching would involve coaching the patient to recognize signs that she is progressing from one stage of the grief process to another.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 99, Table 5-2
14. The findings of a qualitative research study describe the main essence of an experience but also show how the experience varies, depending on the individual or context. These results fall into which of Kearney’s categories of qualitative research findings?
a. Restricted by a priori frameworks
b. Descriptive categories
c. Shared pathway or meaning
d. Description of experiential variation
ANS: D
Feedback A The category “restricted by a priori frameworks” refers to a discovery aborted because the researcher has obscured the findings with an existing theory. B The category “descriptive categories” refers to a phenomenon vividly portrayed from a new perspective, which provides a map into previously uncharted territory. C The category “shared pathway or meaning” refers to the synthesis of a shared experience or process, as well as the integration of concepts that provide a complex picture of a phenomenon. D The findings describe the category “description of experiential variation.”
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 98, Table 5-1
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 5
15. A type of clinical application of qualitative research that would help a nurse describe the trajectory of an illness is:
a. insight or empathy.
b. assessment of status or progress.
c. anticipatory guidance.
d. coaching.
ANS: B
Feedback A The mode “insight or empathy” would help a nurse to understand patients better and to offer more sensitive support. B The mode of clinical application “assessment of status or progress” enables a nurse to describe the trajectory of an illness. C The mode “anticipatory guidance” enables a nurse to share qualitative findings with the patient. D The mode “coaching” enables a nurse to advise patients of steps they can take to reduce distress or improve adjustment to an illness according to the evidence in the study.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 99, Table 5-2
16. Which of Kearney’s categories of qualitative findings describes a phenomenon portrayed vividly from a new perspective?
a. Restricted by a priori frameworks
b. Descriptive categories
c. Shared pathway or meaning
d. Depiction of experiential variation
ANS: B
Feedback A The category “restricted by a priori frameworks” describes a discovery aborted because the researcher has obscured the findings with an existing theory. B The category “descriptive categories” describes a phenomenon to be vividly portrayed from a new perspective. C The category “shared pathway or meaning” describes a synthesis of a shared experience or process or integration of concepts that provides a complex picture of a phenomenon. D The category “depiction of experiential variation” describes the main essence of an experience but also shows how the experience varies, depending on the individual or context.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 98, Table 5-1
17. Which of Kearney’s categories of qualitative findings describes a synthesis of a shared experience or process or integration of concepts that provides a complex picture of a phenomenon?
a. Restricted by a priori frameworks
b. Descriptive categories
c. Shared pathway or meaning
d. Depiction of experiential variation
ANS: C
Feedback A The category “restricted by a priori frameworks” describes a discovery being aborted because the researcher has obscured the findings with an existing theory. B The category “descriptive categories” describes a phenomenon vividly portrayed from a new perspective. C The category “shared pathway or meaning” describes a synthesis of a shared experience or process or integration of concepts that provides a complex picture of a phenomenon. D The category “depiction of experiential variation” describes the main essence of an experience, but it also shows how the experience varies, depending on the individual or context.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 98, Table 5-1
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 6
18. A description of how adolescent girls recovering from addiction to prescription narcotics might or might not move forward to create a new life is an example of which of Kearney’s category of qualitative findings?
a. Restricted by a priori frameworks
b. Descriptive categories
c. Shared pathway or meaning
d. Depiction of experiential variation
ANS: D
Feedback A This is not an example of “restricted by a priori frameworks,” which describes a discovery being aborted because the researcher has obscured the findings with an existing theory. B This is not an example of “descriptive categories,” which describes a phenomenon vividly portrayed from a new perspective. C This is not an example of “shared pathway or meaning,” which describes a synthesis of a shared experience or process or integration of concepts that provides a complex picture of a phenomenon. D This is an example of the category “depiction of experiential variation,” which describes the main essence of an experience but also shows how the experience varies, depending on the individual or context.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 98, Table 5-1
19. An older adult’s description of pain, including descriptors, attributed causes, and what constitutes good care during a painful episode, would be an example of which category of qualitative findings?
a. Restricted by a priori frameworks
b. Descriptive categories
c. Shared pathway or meaning
d. Depiction of experiential variation
ANS: B
Feedback A This is not an example of “restricted by a priori frameworks,” which describes a discovery being aborted because the researcher has obscured the findings with an existing theory. B This is an example of “descriptive categories,” which describes a phenomenon vividly portrayed from a new perspective. C This is not an example of “shared pathway or meaning,” which describes a synthesis of a shared experience or process or integration of concepts that provides a complex picture of a phenomenon. D This is not an example of “depiction of experiential variation,” which describes the main essence of an experience but also shows how the experience varies, depending on the individual or context.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 98, Table 5-1
20. Computer management of qualitative data can Help a nurse researcher with:
a. organization of data.
b. interpretation of data.
c. credibility of data.
d. synthesis of data.
ANS: A
Feedback A Computer management of qualitative data allows easier coding of data and Helps with grouping or organizing data, as well as finding patterns in the interviews and field notes. B Interpretation of data must be performed by the researchers. C Credibility of data must be established by the researchers. D Synthesis of data must be performed by the researchers.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Pages 95-96
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 7
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. Which are steps in the qualitative research process? (Select all that apply.)
a. Sample selection
b. Data collection
c. Review of the literature
d. Assessment
e. Description of findings
f. Implementation of findings
g. Discussion of conclusions
ANS: A, B, C, E, G
Feedback Correct Sample selection is a step in the qualitative research process. Data collection is a step in the qualitative research process. Review of the literature is a step in the qualitative research process. Description of findings is a step in the qualitative research process. Discussion of conclusions is a step in the qualitative research process. Incorrect Assessment is not a step in the qualitative research process. Implementation of findings is not a step in the qualitative research process.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge)

Chapter 06: Qualitative Approaches to Research LoBiondo-Wood & Haber: Nursing Research: Methods and Critical Appraisal for Evidence-Based Practice, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. Which qualitative research approach is used by researchers for the purpose of theory building?
a. Case study
b. Phenomenology
c. Grounded theory
d. Ethnographical method
ANS: C
Feedback A A case study focuses on the peculiarities or commonalities of specific clinical scenarios or situations. B Phenomenology focuses on the lived experience of persons dealing with a particular phenomenon. C Grounded theory is associated with building of theory about basic social processes. The theory evolves or emerges during data collection and analysis. D Ethnographical methods focus on cultures or subcultures within larger social contexts.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 108
2. Which qualitative approach would be most appropriate for a nurse researcher to use when studying the daily experience of women undergoing radiation treatment for breast cancer?
a. Case study
b. Phenomenology
c. Grounded theory
d. Ethnographical method
ANS: B
Feedback A A case study focuses on the peculiarities or commonalities of specific clinical scenarios or situations. B Phenomenology is most appropriate because it focuses on the day-to-day lived experiences of persons dealing with a situation or phenomenon. C Grounded theory is focused on social interactions in a particular context or situation. D Ethnographical methods focus on cultures or subcultures within larger social contexts.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 106
3. When a researcher analyzes data from a phenomenological study, the final synthesis of participants’ reported experiences is:
a. description of the lived experience.
b. identification of thought sequences.
c. generalization of the findings.
d. classification of recurring themes.
ANS: A
Feedback A The final synthesis of a phenomenological study elaborates the lived experience of participants as a narrative. B Identification of thought sequences refers to the auditability of the study. C Qualitative results are not generalized. D Classification of reoccurring themes occurs during data analysis.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 106
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 2
4. When reviewing the report of a phenomenological study, the nurse finds there is no section that describes or reports the research question. The research question can be determined by:
a. examination of the themes that emerged from the study.
b. examination of the data analysis methods used in the study.
c. examination of the questions or statements posed to the study participants.
d. examination and critical analysis of the articles reported in the literature review.
ANS: C
Feedback A Themes do not provide information about the research question. They pertain to results of the study. B Data analysis methods do not indicate the research question. C Examination of questions posed to participants tells the reader what human phenomenon is of interest to the researcher. D Research articles can provide insight into the topic but not the specific research question.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Pages 106-109
5. When reading a report of a phenomenological study, the nurse finds direct quotes from the participants threaded throughout the narrative. This is significant because:
a. the researcher is supporting the study’s findings.
b. the researcher is attempting to make the report more personal.
c. the technique violates the protection of human subjects.
d. the technique ensures that the proper level of data saturation has been reached.
ANS: A
Feedback A Direct quotes allow the reader to evaluate what the participants said and how the researcher labeled what was said. B Using quotes is not a researcher’s attempt to make a report personal. Using direct quotes in consistent with phenomenological method. C Using direct quotes does not violate human subject rights as long as the researcher does not cite the participant’s real name. D Use of direct quotes is a part of data reporting and not related to data saturation.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 108
6. The foundation for the grounded theory method of qualitative research is:
a. philosophy.
b. spirituality.
c. cultural anthropology.
d. social science.
ANS: D
Feedback A Ethnographical studies emerged from cultural anthropology. B Spirituality is not a source of research. C Phenomenology stems from philosophy. D Grounded theory was originally developed as a tool to study interactions in social settings.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Pages 103, 108
7. The purpose of grounded theory is:
a. to expand the scope of nursing practice into areas formerly reserved for other disciplines.
b. to provide an exhaustive description of how individuals or groups have experienced an event.
c. to examine patterns of action and interaction between and among various types of social units.
d. to identify precepts and mores common to all members of a distinct cultural or ethnic group.
ANS: C
Feedback A Expanding research into other disciplines is not a focus of grounded theory. B Phenomenology examines lived human experience. C Grounded theorists are interested in social process and human interaction. D Ethnographical studies examine cultural aspects.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 108
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 3
8. Why is the literature review often limited in a study using grounded theory methods?
a. Research using grounded theory methods is sparse.
b. Grounded theory is more sensitive to cultural values than to the researcher’s values.
c. Theories are expected to emerge directly from the data and not from previous research.
d. Limiting the literature review ensures that the researcher’s personal biases are bracketed.
ANS: C
Feedback A Grounded theory studies are not sparse. B Grounded theory does not focus specifically on cultural values. C Grounded theory emerges from the data and reflects the contextual values that are integral to the social processes being studied. D Limiting the literature review is not necessary for a researcher to bracket preconceived notions of a phenomenon.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Pages 109-110
9. Which feature is characteristic of the grounded theory method of qualitative research?
a. Data gathering, and data analysis occur simultaneously.
b. The researcher has also experienced the phenomenon being studied.
c. A grounded theory study is based on only a single research question.
d. Participants in a grounded theory study must experience the phenomenon currently, during the study.
ANS: A
Feedback A Data analysis and data gathering occur simultaneously. Emerging patterns are identified by the researcher. B The researcher does not need to have experienced the phenomenon of interest. C Grounded theory studies often have multiple questions as the data emerge. D Study participants do not have to be currently experiencing the phenomenon. The participants can provide a present account of a past experience.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 109
10. Which statement is consistent with an emic view of a factor or situation?
a. Health care provider’s statement that Native Americans are stoic in the experience of pain
b. Kindergarten teacher’s statement that there are fewer discipline problems among Asian children
c. The National Cancer Institute’s report that the incidence rate of prostate cancer is high among African American men
d. White teenager’s statement that being “skinny” is more socially acceptable than having a higher weight
ANS: D
Feedback A The health care provider’s statement provides an outsider’s view or etic view. B The kindergarten teacher’s statement provides an etic view. C The National Cancer Institute’s report provides an etic view. D Emic refers to an “insider’s” view. The teenager’s statement provides a view on weight as it is experienced by the teenager.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 110
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 4
11. Which title suggests an ethnographical study?
a. The phenomenon of breast self-examination among African American women
b. The lived experience of breast cancer in postmenopausal women
c. The need for culturally sensitive cancer prevention patient education materials
d. The challenge of retaining femininity after mastectomy
ANS: A
Feedback A Researchers use the ethnographical method to examine cultural variations in health. The other answers do not refer to issues of cultural behavior. B Lived experience is consistent with phenomenology research. C The need for culturally sensitive educational material is a patient need but not a research study. D Femininity after mastectomy is not a research topic that specifically addresses issues of cultural variations.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 110
12. What criterion of scientific rigor for qualitative research is met when the research report leads the reader from the research question and raw data through the steps of analysis and interpretation of the data? a. Confirmability b. Auditability c. Fittingness d. Credibility
ANS: B
Feedback A “Confirmability” refers to the degree the research findings can be confirmed or corroborated by other studies. B “Auditability” refers to the adequacy of information that leads a reader through the steps of data analysis to interpretation of the findings. C “Fittingness” refers to the study’s faithfulness to everyday reality (e.g., if the findings “ring true” to the reader). D “Credibility” refers to measures taken to ensure the accuracy of the findings, usually by cross-checking information with the participants.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 119, Table 6.2
13. Which factor in a research report indicates that the study used a qualitative design?
a. Hypotheses are stated in the report.
b. The sample is described as convenient.
c. People who participated in the study are described as informants.
d. Participants completed a questionnaire to measure their understanding of the topic.
ANS: C
Feedback A Hypotheses are stated in correlational and experimental quantitative research studies. B The sample in qualitative studies is purposive, meeting specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. C The term “informants” points to a qualitative study, specifically ethnographical design studies. D Questionnaires suggest survey research or tests to measure knowledge, which are associated with quantitative, not qualitative, research.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 111
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 5
14. The nurse planning to conduct a qualitative research study. Which statement is most accurate regarding ethical issues in naturalistic settings?
a. It is not possible to obtain informed consent from study participants.
b. The emerging nature of the research design may require ongoing negotiation of consent.
c. The researcher-participant interaction is intentionally therapeutic in nature.
d. Validation of data by cross-checking research findings with participants taints the study.
ANS: B
Feedback A Informed consent is required for studies in naturalistic settings. B The emerging nature of the design might require ongoing consent related to possible risks posed by the study. C The intent of the researcher is not to be therapeutic because this is not a treatment relationship. D Data validation by participants often occurs in studies, but it varies on the basis of the research approach.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 118
15. A nurse researcher has chosen to use the phenomenological method. What feature distinguishes the intensive dialogue the researcher will use in this method from a simple interview?
a. Notes are made about the participant’s responses during the interview.
b. The researcher is fully engaged, becoming a thoughtful presence during the interview.
c. The questions posed during the interview were developed before the actual interview occurred.
d. The researcher completes the questionnaire for the participant to avoid misunderstanding or confusion.
ANS: B
Feedback A Notes can be taken in both an intensive dialogue and a simple interview. B Dialogue extends beyond the simple interview because the interviewer is actively present and engaged in the dialogue. C Questions can be developed beforehand for both an intensive dialogue and a simple interview. D Researchers do not complete questionnaires for participants because the goal is to hear the lived experience through the words of the participant.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 106
16. The nurse researcher has opted to use grounded theory as the research method. Compared with phenomenological research, which data-gathering technique is unique to grounded theory research?
a. Face-to-face interviews
b. Tape-recorded interviews
c. Participant-written responses to written questions
d. Skilled observation of individuals in a social setting
ANS: D
Feedback A Phenomenologists can use face-to-face interviews. B Phenomenologists can use tape-recorded interviews. C Phenomenologists can use participant-written responses. D Grounded theorists observe participants in their natural settings. This observation practice is referred to as “fieldwork.” Phenomenologists do not use fieldwork.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 108
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 6
17. A research question appropriate for a grounded theory approach is:
a. How do incarcerated prisoners interact with fellow prisoners who are known pedophiles?
b. How do Native American teenage girls select a method of contraception?
c. What percent of primary education teachers also have a degree in nursing?
d. How is the total number of clinical hours in a nursing program related to National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rates?
ANS: A
Feedback A The research question is appropriate because it focuses on human interaction. B The question does not focus on social processes related to human interactions. C The question does not focus on social processes related to human interactions. D The question does not focus on social processes related to human interactions.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Pages 108-109
18. The nurse researcher opts to use grounded theory as the research method. Which action or behavior should be avoided in such a study?
a. Following hunches about emerging patterns before data collection is completed
b. Expressing the researcher’s opinions or values to the participants
c. Changing the way experiences are collected or selected after the study has been initiated
d. Expanding codes or data categories as the study progresses
ANS: B
Feedback A Grounded theorists often pursue hunches as data emerge. B Researchers want to observe participants interacting in natural social settings. Interjection of the researcher’s opinions and values disrupts the natural setting. C Emerging data can cause a researcher to change how experiences are observed or how data are collected. D Expanding data codes and categories is expected as data emerge.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Pages 106-107
19. Computer management of qualitative data can Help a nurse researcher in the research process through:
a. interpretation of data.
b. organization of data.
c. credibility of data.
d. synthesis of data.
ANS: B
Feedback A Interpretation of data must be done by researchers. B Computer management of qualitative data allows for easier coding of data and Helps with the grouping or organizing of data. Some computer software can also Help in finding patterns in the interviews or field notes. C Credibility of data is established by researchers. D Analysis of the meaning of data is accomplished by researchers.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 117
20. In an ethnographical study titled, “How do rural Appalachian families with preschool children define and practice health?” the researcher gathered data from mothers who were identified as the primary directors of health care within the family unit. What role did the mothers have in this study?
a. Community informants
b. General informants
c. Local informants
d. Key informants
ANS: D
Feedback A “Community informants” is not the proper term for the participants. B “General informants” is not the proper term for these participants. C “Local informants” is not the proper term for these participants. D Key informants are individuals who have special knowledge and, therefore, can teach the ethnographer about a phenomenon.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 111
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 7
21. Which research question will indicate to the nurse researcher that an ethnographical approach was used in the research study?
a. In what ways do Puerto Rican women learn about health information?
b. What is the quality of life for persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?
c. What was Nightingale’s involvement in sanitary reforms during the 1860s?
d. How do individuals who have heart disease experience anger?
ANS: A
Feedback A Ethnographical studies address questions that concern how cultural knowledge, norms, values, and other contextual variables influence a person’s health experience. B Quality of life is a day-to-day experience, more consistent with phenomenology than ethnography. C An examination of Nightingale would be a historical study. D The experience of anger is consistent with a phenomenological approach.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 111
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. A nurse researcher conducts a grounded theory study examining the process of social support that occurs within interactions between nursing students and clinical faculty in the hospital setting. Which research activities are consistent with a grounded theory study? (Select all that apply.)
a. Using theoretical sampling
b. Having one set of predetermined interview questions
c. Visiting the archives at the school of nursing
d. Changing approaches to data collection as data emerge
e. Asking only one research question to avoid confusing participants
ANS: A, D
Feedback Correct Theoretical sampling is used in grounded theory research. The researcher in a grounded theory study may change approaches to data collection. Incorrect A grounded theory study may have multiple questions as data are collected and interpreted. Visiting archives would be consistent with a historical study. The researcher in a grounded theory study may develop multiple questions as data are collected.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Pages 108-109
2. A nurse researcher is critiquing a research report of a phenomenological study that examined the lived experience of domestic violence. The nurse should recognize which elements as consistent with a phenomenological research report? (Select all that apply.)
a. Open-ended questions were used to ask participants to describe experiences with domestic violence.
b. Data about domestic violence reported by participants are presented in the form of narrative text.
c. The natural setting in which fieldwork was conducted is described in detail.
d. The data analysis section discusses use of a statistical software package. e. The sampling section indicates the criteria for participation included a current unstable domestic relationship.
ANS: A, B
Feedback Correct Open-ended questions are used in phenomenological studies to encourage participants to describe their experiences in their own words. Phenomenological studies present data in the form of narrative text. Incorrect Fieldwork is more commonly associated with ethnographical research. Statistical analysis is conducted in quantitative research. Participants would not be required to be in a violent domestic relationship at the present time. Phenomenologists believe that past experiences can also be shared in the present moment.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Pages 107-109
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 8
3. Which are ethical concerns that the nurse must consider when evaluating qualitative research? (Select all that apply.)
a. Researchers can focus on the emic, rather than the etic, view of participants’ experiences.
b. Researchers and participants may develop relationships that blur boundaries of their interactions.
c. Researchers may want to speak to participants on more than one occasion.
d. Researchers serve as instruments for data interpretation.
e. Researchers may change the research design as knowledge emerges, thus altering risks to participants.
ANS: B, D, E
Feedback Correct Designs that require interactions between participants and researchers over time can result in blurred relationship boundaries. Researchers serve as instruments for data interpretation, so personal viewpoints can blur proper interpretation of participant accounts. An emergent design, such as grounded theory, might cause the researcher to change the approaches of the study and, therefore, alter risks to participants. Incorrect The researcher’s goal is to describe participant experiences from the emic perspective. It is not unusual for participants to be interviewed more than once in qualitative studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Pages 118-119
4. Criteria are used to judge a qualitative study’s scientific rigor include: (Select all that apply.)
a. reality based.
b. credibility.
c. confidentiality of participants.
d. auditability.
e. recordkeeping.
f. fittingness.
ANS: B, D, F
Feedback Correct This is the truth of the findings as judged by the participants and others within the discipline. This is accountability as judged by the adequacy of the information leading the reader from the research question and raw data through various steps of analysis to the interpretation of findings. This is faithfulness to everyday reality of the participants, described so that others in the discipline can evaluate importance for their own practice, research, and theory development. Incorrect “Reality based” is not a criterion used to judge a study’s scientific rigor. “Confidentiality of participants” is not a criterion used to judge a study’s scientific rigor. “Recordkeeping” is not a criterion used to judge a study’s scientific rigor.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Page 119
5. A nurse researcher critiques a phenomenological study for fittingness. The researcher will examine the study to see whether the study included: (Select all that apply.)
a. queried participants to confirm identified themes.
b. documented the bracketing process used to maintain proper perspective.
c. described the experiences of participants in a way that “rings true” for the reader.
d. presented narrative in a way that captures everyday reality of participants. e. discussed in detail the process through which identified themes emerged.
ANS: C, D
Feedback Correct Describing the experiences in a way that “rings true” is an example of fittingness. Using narrative helps to keep the research faithful to the experience of participants and provides support for fittingness. Incorrect Cross-checking with participants helps to support credibility of the study. Bracketing also helps to support credibility of the study. Detailing the process by which themes emerge is part of the study’s auditability.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 120, Table 6-2
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Chapter 07: Appraising Qualitative Research LoBiondo-Wood & Haber: Nursing Research: Methods and Critical Appraisal for Evidence-Based Practice, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. In the report of a qualitative research study, a theme represents:
a. a guideline for evaluating the appropriateness of the study.
b. the operational definition of the study’s conceptual framework.
c. a label that describes key ideas shared by study participants.
d. the relationship between the study’s hypotheses and the research questions.
ANS: C
Feedback A A theme is not a guideline for Assessment of the study. B Conceptual frameworks are found in reports of quantitative, not qualitative, studies. C A theme is a label (concept or phrase) that describes in a condensed way a key idea shared by study participants, usually derived from interviews. D Hypotheses are characteristics of quantitative, not qualitative, studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 125
2. The identification of themes is important when reviewing findings of a qualitative research report because themes:
a. reflect congruence between the questions asked and the methodology.
b. allow description of a large quantity of data in a condensed format.
c. demonstrate both the emic and etic views of a topic.
d. explain the nature of differences reported by participants experiencing a common phenomenon.
ANS: B
Feedback A Themes do not reflect congruence between the study’s questions and methods. B Themes allow a condensed representation of quotes or indicators of the same idea from multiple participants. C Themes reflect emic, not etic, perspectives. D Differences reported by participants are not reflected in a single theme.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 125
3. Which of these titles of a research report indicates the study is qualitative, rather than quantitative?
a. Predicting the treatment choice for women older than age 50 experiencing breast cancer
b. Evaluating nursing interventions for complex oncology clinical phenomena
c. Using virtual reality as a distraction method during chemotherapy
d. Transcending pain during bone marrow aspiration
ANS: D
Feedback A This title suggests a quantitative study in which statistical analysis is used. B This title suggests a quantitative study that predicts a treatment choice. C This title suggests a quantitative study in which virtual reality is the experimental variable. D This title suggests a qualitative study because it describes responses to a human experience.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Page 125
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4. Which outcome or overall purpose would be consistent with a qualitative study?
a. Development of creative solutions to practical problems
b. Prediction and control of a human phenomenon
c. Description of behavior within a context-free theoretical framework
d. Use of statistical analyses to determine significant differences between variables
ANS: A
Feedback A A characteristic of many qualitative research studies is the development of new and creative solutions to practical problems. B Prediction and control of phenomena are characteristics of quantitative research. C Both quantitative and qualitative research studies must be interpreted within context. Theoretical frameworks are consistent with both qualitative and quantitative research. D Statistical analysis to determine significant differences is characteristic of quantitative studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying (Application) REF: Pages 124-125
5. Which criterion helps to determine whether the results of a qualitative study can be applied beyond the study sample or population?
a. Evidence of fittingness or transferability of the findings
b. Evidence of trustworthiness or validity of the findings
c. Credentials and experience of the person applying the findings
d. Statistical significance and reliability of the findings
ANS: A
Feedback A The findings of qualitative studies should not be applied beyond the study sample unless evidence is provided for the study’s transferability or fittingness. B Evidence of trustworthiness or validity of the findings applies to the study, only, and does not imply transferability beyond the study population. C Although credentials of the person applying the findings are important, they do not guarantee that the application beyond the study population is appropriate. D The statistical significance and reliability measurements of findings are characteristics of quantitative research findings.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
6. Before applying the results of a qualitative study in practice, the nurse should take several actions including:
a. use triangulation to combine quantitative and qualitative methods in a replication study.
b. evaluate the credentials and experience of the researcher who conducted the study.
c. determine if the concepts/themes identified in the study support the work completed by other researchers.
d. be sure that the study’s findings were significant at the 0.05 or greater level of probability.
ANS: C
Feedback A Triangulation is used to strengthen the research design of a study by combining multiple measures (e.g., qualitative and quantitative methods). The consumer of research need not replicate a study before using the findings. B Although credentials of the investigator are important, they do not ensure the applicability of a study in actual practice. C One way to determine generalizability of findings is to determine if the study supports the work completed by other researchers. D Statistical significance generally is not measured in qualitative studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 125
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 3
7. What information in the report of a qualitative research study indicates to the nurse that the research meets the criterion of auditability?
a. The study’s participants recognize the experience described as their own.
b. The results are meaningful to individuals beyond those in the study population.
c. The projected significance of the study to nursing is described.
d. The researcher documented how the data led to the conclusions.
ANS: D
Feedback A The participants’ recognition of the experience described as their own is part of the study’s credibility. B The application of findings to persons beyond the study sample is part of the study’s transferability. C The significance of the study to nursing is part of the study’s implications. D Auditability is determined by the researcher’s documentation of the research process leading to the study’s conclusions.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
8. The nurse researcher reports that after data collection was completed, a follow-up focus group session with participants was used to validate that the participants agreed the findings were true to their own experiences. What aspect of the study does this support?
a. The study’s credibility
b. The study’s auditability
c. The study’s transferability
d. The study’s fittingness
ANS: A
Feedback A The participants’ agreement with the study’s findings supports the study’s credibility. B Auditability of the study requires that others can follow the evidence trail of the primary researcher. C Transferability refers to the usefulness of the study beyond the sample population. D Fittingness is another term for transferability, which refers to the usefulness of the study beyond the sample population.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
9. Qualitative research is designed to describe:
a. results of hypothesis testing.
b. definitive conclusions to research questions.
c. insiders’ views of a human phenomenon.
d. findings derived from a large, randomly selected sample.
ANS: C
Feedback A Hypothesis testing is characteristic of quantitative studies. B Definitive conclusions are typical of quantitative studies. C Qualitative research studies insider or emic knowledge of a phenomenon. D Large, random samples are typical of quantitative studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering (Knowledge) REF: Pages 125-127
10. Which activity represents attention to credibility in a qualitative study?
a. Ensuring that all subjects self-identified with a specific ethnic group
b. Providing direct quotations from study participants
c. Identifying the basic social psychological process (BSP) under study
d. Determining usefulness of the data outside of the study
ANS: B
Feedback A Ensuring subject identification with an ethnic group helps to identify the characteristics of the study sample. B Using selected quotes of participants to support themes enhances a study’s credibility. C The BSP, or core variable, under study characterizes grounded theory studies. D Determining the usefulness of the data outside of the study is related to transferability of the study’s findings.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
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11. During the critique of a qualitative research study, the nurse notes the statement, “Saturation was achieved at the completion of 20 interviews.” What is the significance of this statement?
a. The investigator should collect additional data.
b. The data-collection period has ended.
c. Purposive sampling is now required.
d. Random sampling should be initiated.
ANS: B
Feedback A There is no need to collect additional data once saturation has been achieved. B Saturation refers to the end of data collection because the results become repetitive, indicating that no additional knowledge is to be gained by continuing to add participants. C Purposive sampling is done from the initiation of data collection. D Random sampling is a characteristic of quantitative research studies.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
12. One outcome of collecting evidence about a phenomenon of interest in a qualitative research study may be what?
a. Triangulation of methodology
b. Participant cross-checking
c. Use of meta-synthesis
d. Giving a voice to disenfranchised individuals
ANS: D
Feedback A Triangulation is used to strengthen the research design of a study by combining multiple measures in the study’s methodology. B Cross-checking participants’ data helps in establishing a study’s credibility. C Meta-synthesis is a method of synthesizing findings from a number of qualitative research studies. D Because application of qualitative findings is context-bound, a qualitative study can give a voice to disenfranchised individuals who previously had no documented history.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 125
13. Which study characteristic would indicate that a grounded theory approach, rather than a phenomenological approach, was used?
a. Data were collected by more than one person.
b. Participants reviewed and evaluated the transcripts for accuracy.
c. The focus was on the process elements of the phenomenon.
d. It studied a lived human experience.
ANS: C
Feedback A Collection of data by more than one person is a characteristic of many types of study. B Checking of participants’ transcripts for accuracy is used in many types of qualitative study. C Grounded theory focuses on identifying the process elements of a phenomenon, not only on describing the phenomenon. D All types of qualitative study including phenomenology are focused on lived human experience.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Pages 125-126
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 5
14. The nurse is critiquing a qualitative research study. Which question would be appropriate for the nurse to ask when critiquing the study’s methodology?
a. Are the informants who were chosen appropriate to inform the research?
b. If a particular approach is used to guide the inquiry, does the researcher complete the study according to the processes described?
c. Does the researcher address the credibility, auditability, and fittingness of the data?
d. Does the researcher place the report in the context of what is already known about the phenomenon (e.g., the existing literature)?
ANS: B
Feedback A A question about the informants chosen concerns the study’s sample selection. B A question about the study’s approach or processes for conducting the study concerns its methodology. C Questions about credibility, auditability, and fittingness concern the analysis of data. D A question about placing the report in the context of what is already known concerns the study’s findings.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 125
15. The nurse is critiquing a qualitative research study. Which question would be appropriate for the nurse to ask when critiquing the study’s sample selection?
a. Are the informants who were chosen appropriate to inform the research?
b. If a particular approach is used to guide the inquiry, does the researcher complete the study according to the processes described?
c. Does the researcher address the credibility, auditability, and fittingness of the data?
d. Does the researcher place the report in the context of what is already known about the phenomenon (e.g., the existing literature)?
ANS: A
Feedback A A question about the informants who were chosen concerns the study’s sample selection. B A question about the study’s approach or processes for conducting the study concerns its methodology. C Questions about credibility, auditability, and fittingness concern the analysis of data. D A question about placing the report in the context of what is already known concerns the study’s findings.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
16. The nurse is critiquing a qualitative research study. Which question would be appropriate for the nurse to ask when critiquing the study’s credibility?
a. Has adequate time been allowed to fully understand the phenomenon?
b. Are the results meaningful to individuals not involved in the research?
c. Does the investigator document the research process?
d. What is the projected significance of the research to nursing?
ANS: A
Feedback A The study’s credibility is addressed in a question about sufficient time to fully understand the phenomenon. B A study’s fittingness (transferability) is addressed in a question about the meaningfulness of the study’s results to persons not involved in the research concerns. C A study’s auditability is addressed in a question about documentation of the research process. D A study’s purpose is addressed in a question about the significance of the study to nursing.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved. 6
17. The nurse is critiquing a qualitative research study. Which question would be appropriate for the nurse to ask when critiquing the study’s fittingness?
a. Has adequate time been allowed to fully understand the phenomenon?
b. Are the results meaningful to individuals not involved in the research?
c. Does the investigator document the research process?
d. What is the projected significance of the research to nursing?
ANS: B
Feedback A The study’s credibility is addressed in a question about sufficient time to fully understand the phenomenon. B A study’s fittingness (transferability) is addressed in a question about the meaningfulness of the study’s results to persons not involved in the research concerns. C A study’s auditability is addressed in a question about documentation of the research process. D A study’s purpose is addressed in a question about the significance of the study to nursing.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
18. When critiquing a report of a qualitative research study, the nurse asks, “How has the researcher made explicit the significance of the study to nursing theory, research, or practice?” This question is critiquing what section of the report?
a. Data analysis
b. Data collection
c. Statement of the phenomenon of interest
d. Conclusions, implications, and recommendations
ANS: D
Feedback A This question does not address the study’s data analysis. B This question does not address the study’s data collection. C This question does not address the statement of the phenomenon of interest. D This question addresses the study’s conclusions, implications, and recommendations.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
19. When critiquing a report of a qualitative research study, the nurse asks, “Is protection of human participants addressed?” This question is critiquing what section of the report?
a. Data analysis
b. Data collection
c. Statement of the phenomenon of interest
d. Conclusions, implications, and recommendations
ANS: B
Feedback A This question does not address the study’s data analysis. B This question addresses the study’s data collection. C This question does not address the statement of the phenomenon of interest. D This question does not address the study’s conclusions, implications, and recommendations.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
20. When critiquing a qualitative research study, the nurse asks, “Has the researcher remained true to the data?” This question is critiquing which area of the report?
a. Method
b. Data collection
c. Data analysis
d. Findings
ANS: C
Feedback A This question does not address the study’s methods. B This question does not address the study’s data collection. C This question addresses the study’s data analysis. D This question does not address the study’s findings.
PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding (Comprehension) REF: Page 126
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