Evidence-Based Practice for Nurses

Sandelowski (1995) distinguished between analysis and

interpretation of data by stating:

In contrast, qualitative interpretation is the knowledge

produced: the end-product of analysis where the researcher

construes or renders the analyzed data in such a way

that something new is created that is different from,

yet faithful to, that data in its original form. (p. 372)

In other words, data analysis is the means to an end, with

the final outcome being a useful piece of research that can

be applied in practice. It is important for researchers to be

mindful of the language used to ensure that the message

is accessible and usable to a broad range of readers and so that strategies for

the point of care can be implemented (Sandelowski & Leeman, 2012). Thus,

one could say that the interpretation of qualitative data provides evidence for

practice. This is the evidence of words.

Drawing and Verifying Conclusions

As the data are being analyzed, researchers are also drawing some conclusions

that are continually tested and modified, discarded, or verified. So, how does

one figure out what all the data and codes mean? How do researchers know that

codes they have chosen to use are correct? Table 14-1 lists five levels of qualitative

Level of Data Summary

A priori framework Data analyzed according to a preexisting framework; lowest level of

data; provides no new knowledge

Descriptive Researcher develops labels for data categories but does not

explicate relationships among the categories; useful for devising

lists of descriptors on a topic

Developing a synthesis Researcher explains and explores relationships among themes

with logical integration

Increased complexity

and case variance

Researcher explains variations and negative case examples of the

research; a step beyond developing a synthesis

A product that

comprehensively

explains a complex

human phenomenon

The level of research that is considered to be the gold standard;

provides an explanation of a phenomenon with depth and breadth

as to increase others’ understanding and advance the science

Data from Jacelon, C. S., & O’Dell, K. K. (2005). Analyzing qualitative data. Urologic Nursing, 25,

217–220; Kearney, M. (2001). Focus on research methods: Levels and applications of qualitative

research evidence. Research in Nursing and Health, 24, 145–153.

TABLE 14-1 Five Levels of Qualitative Data

FYI

The interpretation of qualitative data should

provide evidence for practice; the results of

the study must be reported with sufficient

rigor and details about the methods used to

establish trustworthiness of the findings so

that readers can have confidence that the

results represent suggestions for best prac-

tice. There are three common approaches to

reporting qualitative data: realist tales, confes-

sionist tales, and impressionist tales.

386 CHAPTER 14 What Do the Qualitative Data Mean?