INTRODUCTION TO DATA COLLECTION

 

The lesson started with a recap of the last session, and continued with an introduction of today’s session which is Introduction to Data Collection. We discussed the learning objectives of the session, and they are as follows:

Understand the elements of data collection for both qualitative and quantitative research.

• Become more aware of data collection methods and their pros and cons.
• Explore some common methods of data analysis.

The critical appraisal is about been able to distinguish between opinionated, one-sided arguments or good research on the other.

 

We also discussed the purpose of data collection, that data is meaningless by itself as it does not explain or change. The aim of gathering and summarising data is to transform this into information in order to:

• Identify variables/ facts.
• Measure variable/phenomena.
• Describe behaviour.
• Obtain evidence.

We discussed the sources of data collection; they are primary sources and secondary sources. With regards primary sources, they are document /record containing first-hand information or original data or topic.

In the secondary source, data already collected by someone else, and which have already been analysed.

The following are the considerations for the selection of data collection methods:

• Nature of phenomenon under study.
• Type of research study.
• Type of research subject.
• Purpose of the research study.
• Size of the study sample
• Distribution of target population
• Time frame of the study.
• Literacy level of subjects.
• Availability of resources and manpower
• Researcher’s knowledge level and competence.

We had a recall of quantitative research and the types of quantitative data collection.  The types of data collection are as follows:

• Surveys/ Questionnaires – (close-ended questions, scales, multiple choice questions, yes/no questions).
• Observations – (this r3equires skills and senses for getting the numerical data).
• Structured interviews – (face-to-face, telephone/ video interviews, (CAPI) Computer-Assisted Personal Interview)..
• Document review – (Public records annual reports, census, and personal documents eg patients notes, registration forms).
• Biophysiological methods in healthcare – (collection of physiological data from subjects to determine the biological and physical status of subjects e.g. BP measurement).

We also had a recall on qualitative research, its types and in assessing the trustworthiness in this type of research method. The trustworthiness deals with the following.

• Credibility
• Dependability.
• Confirmability.
• Transferability.
• Flexibility.

The types of qualitative data collection are as follows:

• Focus groups –(Their aims is to create an open and relaxed environment and to promote interactions between participants).
• Surveys or questionnaires
• Observation
• Case studies and
• Document review.

The qualitative observational methods involve direct, systematic detailed observation and recording of people, their actions, events, behaviours, talk and interaction.

The observational methods attempt to observe things as they are without any intervention or manipulation of the situation itself by the researcher.

 

KSBs ADDRESSED.

 

KNOWLEDGE.

 

K1: Understand the Code: Professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives and nursing associates (NMC, 2018), and how to fulfil all registration requirements.

K4: Understand the principles of research and how research findings are used to inform evidence-based practice.

K6: Understand and apply relevant legal, regulatory and governance requirements, policies, and ethical frameworks, including any mandatory reporting duties, to all areas of practice.

K7: Understand the importance of courage and transparency and apply the Duty of Candour.

K8: Understand how discriminatory behaviour is exhibited.

K10: Understand the principles of epidemiology, demography, and genomics and how these may influence health and well-being outcomes.

K11: Understand the factors that may lead to inequalities in health outcomes.

K30: Understand the principles of health and safety legislation and regulations and maintain safe work and care environments.

K33: Understand when to seek appropriate advice to manage a risk and avoid compromising quality of care and health outcomes.

K37: Understand the challenges of providing safe nursing care for people with complex co-morbidities and complex care needs.

K43: Understand the influence of policy and political drivers that impact health and care provision Skills.

 

 

SKILLS.

 

S1: Act in accordance with the Code: Professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives, and nursing associates (NMC, 2018), and fulfil all registration requirements.

S3: Recognise and report any factors that may adversely impact safe and effective care provision.

S5: Safely demonstrate evidence-based practice in all skills and procedures required for entry to the register: Standards of proficiency for nursing associates Annex A & B (NMC 2018).

S7: Communicate effectively using a range of skills and strategies with colleagues and people at all stages of life and with a range of mental, physical, cognitive, and behavioural health challenges.

S9: Develop, manage, and maintain appropriate relationships with people, their families, carers, and colleagues.

S11: Report any situations, behaviours or errors that could result in poor care outcomes.

S43: Contribute to team reflection activities to promote improvements in practice and services.

 

 

 

BEHAVIOURS.

 

B1: Treat people with dignity, respecting individual’s diversity, beliefs, culture, needs, values, privacy, and preferences.

B2: Show respect and empathy for those you work with, have the courage to challenge areas of concern and work to evidence based best practice.

B3: Be adaptable, reliable and consistent, show discretion, resilience and self-awareness.