Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice Thrid Edition: Model and Guidelines

(^120) Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice: Model and Guidelines, Third Edition
Qualitative case study methodology is an in-depth, comprehensive study of a case
(Stake, 1995). A case may best be understood as a person or a group of people
about which the researcher wants to learn more (Stake, 1995). For example, a
case could consist of a single patient on a unit, but it could also consist of all
patients on the unit. A case does not have to be a person and may instead be a
program or a system; however, the researcher must make clear the definition of
the case (Stake, 1995). Case study research often describes experiences and may
be single-case or multiple-case designs (Stake, 1995).

Example: Qualitative Case Study Design

Mills, Chamberlain-Salaun, Harrison, Yates, and O’Shea (2016) conducted a

single-case research study with early career registered nurses (ECRNs) in order

to describe and explain the ECRNs’ experiences during their first five years of

practice. This study included interviews and focus groups with ECRNs. The

study team was interested in understanding the experience of ECRNs to improve

retention and reduce turnover and found six themes related to retention: 1)

well-planned, supported, and structured transition periods; 2) consideration of

rotation through different areas with a 6-month minimum for skills development;

3) empowering decision-making; 4) placement opportunities and choice in

decisions of where to work; 5) career advice and support that considers ECRNs’

personalities and skills; and 6) encouragement to reflect on career choices.

Table 6.5 Qualitative Designs, Source, and Focus

Type Source Focus

Basic qualitative

descriptive

Includes characteristics from the

other qualitative methodologies,

such as the use of constant

comparison from grounded

theory

Surfaces descriptions of events

or experiences and involves

limited interpretation by the

researcher

Ethnography Anthropology Describes and analyzes

characteristics of the ways of

life of cultures or subcultures