Critique of research titled “Why Are Nurses Leaving? Findings From an Initial Qualitative Study on Nursing Attrition”

Critique of the sampling procedure:

The target population identified in the research that is the non-practicing registered nurses. The identified population was accessible through telephone calls and emails which enabled meeting with the researcher to be possible. The snowball sampling technique, which is a non-probability method, was used in the research. The sampling method has been described, and data collection and analysis from the samples chosen have been shown. The sampling method was appropriate for the study even though more could have been done, and other qualitative sampling techniques were incorporated, unlike the case that used only the snowball sampling technique. The demographic characteristics of the samples are presented, but the sample size is only ten and, therefore, inadequate. The sample represented the targeted population and profession, as all had previous contact with the targeted population. From the method used for snowballs, sampling biases are noted, bearing in mind that it is a no-probability sampling procedure. The people interviewed and samples used were referenced by third parties, and this created a probability of bias in the process. However, the researchers have not addressed any bias issues and how they could have avoided or reduced them. The subjects’ dropout issue is discussed during the orientation process, and the samples are given the choice to drop and stop the interview at any point and time and are assured of their anonymity and privacy in relation to the information collected by the researcher.

Critique of the Data-Collection procedure:

The information on “who,” “where,” “what,” “why,” “when,” and “how” in regard to data collection is well documented in the research. The methodology used for the research determined the information provided by those interviewed from the chosen samples. The information, however, does not specify which place exactly the interview was conducted or the precise date and time for the interview. It, however, shows what data was collected, the technique used to gather the data, and the reasons behind the collection of the data from the chosen samples. Recording of the interviews using audiotapes and field notes taken to allow for comparison and clarification of the information collected and hence reduce the variables that would result from the exercise. Interpretive analysis was also done by sharing data with colleagues to ensure appropriate interpretations were made in relation to the research objectives and goals stated. Data collection instruments, including audiotapes and transcriptions, are described in the research (MacKusick & Minick, 2010). The instruments used had not been used previously, and there is nowhere to indicate if they were tested for reliability. However, the research indicates that each interview was recorded and transcripts formulated, meaning the instruments were reliable for the collection of data. The interviewed people also asserted that the transcripts contained the exact information that they had and what transpired in the interview, and this is evidence that they were reliable. The methodology chosen for the research, which was an interview with those sampled, made it difficult to validate and assess the instrument’s sufficiency. However, it is assumed that the researchers had previously tasted and verified that the instruments were functional and up to the task for recording the interviews and conversations they had regarding the research, even though there is no information noted from the research about prior tests either through pilot studies or physical tests done.

Critique of data-collection Method

The data collection method used for the research was interviews, in which those chosen in the sampling procedures were interviewed on issues that were pertinent to the researcher. The data collection method is described thoroughly as semi-structured interviews with field notes and audio tapes. Transcripts were also made for both parties that participated in the research. However, there is no example of such a transcript of the interview presented in the research but a few parts and responses have been used in presenting and supporting certain themes and positions noted in the research. The data collection was appropriate to answer research questions due to the small number that totaled only ten of those sampled for the interview. It required an extensive interview that could result in in-depth data and information due to the type of questions that the researchers had. Due to many possibilities and generalizations regarding the subject, the method was appropriate in narrowing down the main reasons and themes contributing to the issue. The psychological method used provided enough data that is valid and in-depth as the subject itself is sensitive in relation to the entire profession. It enabled the sample people to bring out the issue of unfriendly workplaces and emotional distress relating to patient care to be brought out through the themes chosen that dominated the interviews. Interview was the only technique used to gather data; however, when other methods could have been incorporated, such as questionnaires and focus group discussions, more elaborate information would have been captured that would given an in-depth analysis and interpretation of the information in relation to the subject and thus make the research more valuable and informing. A mixture of methods for data collection would capture more information that would not be captured by the one method used, and hence, the data would be rich and useful for short- and long-term research studies (Nieswiadomy, 2012). There is no information provided showing the duration of the interview or the training for those who conducted the interviews. Interviewing requires good communication skills to capture and bring out the information required. However, the background of those conducting the interviews is from the educational backgrounds a scholars, making people assume they have the required skills. The participants’ confidentiality was assured throughout the process.

Critique of descriptive statistics

The descriptive statistics used for the research are minimal and touch and show the demographic factors for the chosen samples. A table is used that is divided into varied parts displaying information about the participants, indicating the ratio of the gender used, the age category, racial background, clinical experience, level of education, and work status, among other pertinent issues relating to the research. The measures of central tendency and variability are not presented due to the nature of the data collection methods used and the research question. The demographic characteristics of the subject are well presented, and the statistics presented in the text agree with those noted in the table.

Critique of inferential statistics

Inferential statistics are presented in the research report in the discussion and findings section. The results and findings by the researchers are compared to past documented information relating to the subject. The reader is not provided with the calculated value of inferential statistics due to the research question and goals of the research. Non- parametric tests were used for the research as no assumption was made in relation to the samples used. It was appropriate as most of the important data and requirements for the samples were determined earlier on before the start of the research that determined the samples selected for the study. The test was appropriate because the small group was chosen and used as a sample for the research. The outcomes of the study are obtainable both in text and in tables with no data on inferential tests due to the nature and question of the study.

References

MacKusick, C. I & Minick, P. (2010). Why Are Nurses Leaving? Findings From an Initial Qualitative Study on Nursing Attrition. AJN Article. Available at: HYPERLINK “https://www.amsn.org/sites/default/files/documents/practice-resources/healthy-work-environment/resources/MSNJ_MacKusick_19_06.pdf” https://www.amsn.org/sites/default/files/documents/practice-resources/healthy-work-environment/resources/MSNJ_MacKusick_19_06.pdf

Nieswiadomy, R. M. (2012). Foundations of Nursing Research (6th ed.), Pearson Prentice Hall.

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