Critical Evaluation of Research

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Critical evaluation of research

The purpose of this assignment is to critically evaluate the research article entitled above. Hek et al (1996) say that when we critique research material it is important to identify both the strengths and weaknesses of the study. Polit and Hungler (2001) would also agree with this and state that a research critique is a judicious, critical appraisal of the strengths and limitations and not just a review or summary of the article. Critical evaluation allows an individual to assess the worth of a research article by looking carefully at all parts of the study (Walsh & Wigens 2003). The aim therefore, is to critique and evaluate the chosen article in terms of strengths and weaknesses, to demonstrate an understanding of the research process and to relate this to professional practice.

According to Smith (1997), good critiquing skills will prevent nurses from accepting inept research findings. However the task of critiquing is according to LoBiondo-Wood & Haber (2006) a challenging one and can only be effectively achieved through much practice and skill.

Framework for analysis

The framework used to critique this piece of research is the LoBiondo-wood and Haber (2002, (appendix 2). The framework suggests questions we should ask ourselves to cover all aspects of the research to evaluate it effectively. All sections should be critically analysed to establish the credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability of the research.

Research and evidence based practice.

Nursing research aims to increase the sum of what is already known by the discovery of new facts or relationships through a process of systematic inquiry (Macleod-Clark & Hockey 1989). Silverman (2005) proposes that research is not a luxury for the academic, but a tool for developing the quality of nursing decisions, prescriptions
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