This Chapter Describes And Justifies The Data Gathering Meth

This chapter describes and justifies the data gathering method used and outlines how you analyzed your data

This chapter describes and justifies the data gathering method used and outlines how you analyzed your data. Begin by describing the method you chose and why this method was the most appropriate. Next, detail every step of the data gathering and analysis process. Although this section varies depending on method and analysis technique chosen, many of the following areas typically are addressed: description of population (reviewers or participants), description of design type, justification for inclusion/exclusion of content, development of instrument, tool or method for obtaining feedback (surveys, interviews, observation, content analysis), and identification of themes or categories.

The aim of the project is to reduce the patient’s fall rate in the skilled nursing unit at an acute care facility through improving the fall precaution process. The unit consists of 48 beds with a population of stroke, medical, and surgical patients. The focus of the nursing staff education, using handouts, brochures, and posters, will be based on the results from pre- and post-intervention audits. The goal of this fall reduction project is to have the nursing staff learn, review, and apply fall prevention interventions for fall risk patients to help reduce the fall rate by 5 percent within a five-month period, from January 2020 through June 2020.

Paper For Above instruction

In this research project aimed at reducing patient falls within a skilled nursing unit, an appropriate mixed-methods approach was adopted to gather comprehensive data and analyze outcomes effectively. The combination of quantitative and qualitative data collection methods facilitated a thorough understanding of the fall prevention interventions' impact and enabled the identification of key themes influencing patient safety. This section outlines the rationale behind the selected methods, details the specific steps undertaken during data collection and analysis, and discusses the approaches used to ensure validity and reliability in the findings.

Method Selection and Justification

The primary data collection method utilized was a combination of quantitative audits and qualitative feedback from nursing staff. Pre- and post-intervention audits were instrumental in quantitatively measuring the fall rates and evaluating the effectiveness of the implemented safety protocols. These audits provided objective data on the number of falls occurring before and after the intervention period, thereby enabling a measurable assessment of progress towards the goal of a 5% reduction in falls.

Complementing the audits, qualitative data were collected through structured surveys and focus group discussions with nursing staff. This mixed-method approach was justified by the need to not only quantify the reduction in fall incidences but also to understand the contextual factors, perceptions, and barriers experienced by staff in implementing fall prevention strategies. Such insights are crucial for refining interventions, increasing staff engagement, and ensuring sustainability of safety practices.

Data Gathering Procedures

The data collection process spanned over six months, aligning with the project's timeline from January to June 2020. The first phase involved conducting baseline audits of fall incidents over the three months prior to the intervention. These audits employed a standardized data collection tool designed to capture detailed information on each fall, including time, location, contributing factors, and patient characteristics.

Following the baseline assessment, targeted staff education sessions using handouts, brochures, and posters were implemented to promote early recognition and management of fall risks. During the intervention period, ongoing audits continued to monitor fall occurrences, with data collected weekly to identify patterns and emerging issues.

The qualitative component involved administering structured surveys to nursing staff periodically, eliciting feedback regarding their perceptions of the fall prevention strategies, challenges faced, and suggestions for improvement. Additionally, focus group discussions were convened at the mid-point and end of the project to gain deeper insights into the staff's experiences and attitudes towards sustaining fall prevention practices.

Data Analysis Approach

The quantitative data from the audits were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The pre- and post-intervention fall rates were compared using chi-square tests to determine the significance of observed changes. Data were also stratified by patient type, time of day, and location within the unit to identify specific areas needing targeted interventions.

Qualitative data from surveys and focus groups were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. Coding involved identifying recurring themes related to staff knowledge, attitudes, perceived barriers, and suggestions for enhancing fall prevention measures. The analysis aimed to uncover underlying factors affecting compliance with safety protocols and to inform future interventions.

Validity of the findings was ensured through triangulation of data sources—comparison of audit results with staff feedback—and member checking during focus groups to verify the accuracy of interpreted themes. Reliability was maintained through consistent data collection procedures, trained data collectors, and standardized instruments across all phases of the project.

Conclusion

The combined use of quantitative audits and qualitative feedback provided a comprehensive picture of the fall prevention efforts in the skilled nursing unit. This methodology not only quantified the reduction in fall rates but also illuminated the contextual factors influencing staff adherence to safety protocols. Such an integrated approach supported evidence-based decision-making and contributed to the overall goal of enhancing patient safety through effective fall prevention strategies.

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