Evidence-Based Practice for Nurses

Questions to Consider When

Appraising Nursing Studies

Introduction

1. Does the introduction demonstrate the need
   for the study?


2. Is the problem clearly and concisely
   identified?


3. Is the problem presented with enough
   background material to acquaint the reader
   with the importance of the problem?


4. Is the purpose of the study clearly stated?


5. Are the terms and variables relevant to the
   study clearly defined?


6. Are the assumptions clearly and simply
   stated?


7. If appropriate to the design, are hypotheses
   stated?


8. Does the study use a theoretical framework
   to guide its design?

Review of the Literature

1. Is the ROL relevant to the problem?


2. Is the review adequate in terms of the range
   and scope of ideas, opinions, and points of
   view relevant to the problem?


3. Is the review well organized and synthesized?


4. Does the review provide for critical appraisal
   of the contribution of each of the major
   references?


5. Does the review conclude with a summary of
   the literature with implications for the study?


6. Is the ROL adequately and correctly
   documented?

Methods

1. Is the research approach appropriate?


2. Was the protection of human subjects
   considered?


3. Are the details of data collection clearly and
   logically presented?
   4. Are the instrument(s) appropriate for the
   study both in terms of the problem and the
   approach?
   5. Are the instrument(s) described sufficiently
   in terms of content, structure, validity and
   reliability?
   6. Is the population and the method for
   selecting the sample adequately described?
   7. Is the method for selection of the sample
   appropriate?
   8. Is the sample size sufficient?
   9. Is attrition of sample reported and explained?


4. Does the design have controls at an accept-
   able level for the threats to internal validity?


5. What are the limits to generalizability in
   terms of external validity?

Results

1. Is the presentation of data clear?


2. Are the characteristics of the sample
   described?


3. Was the best method(s) of analysis selected?


4. Are the tables, charts, and graphs pertinent?

Discussion

1. Are the results based on the data presented?


2. Is the evidence sufficient to draw conclusions?


3. Are the results interpreted in the context
   of the problem/purpose, hypothesis, and
   theoretical framework/literature reviewed?


4. Are the conclusions and generalizations
   clearly stated?


5. Are the limitations of the findings clearly
   delineated?


6. Are the generalizations within the scope of
   the findings or beyond the findings?


7. Does the study contribute to nursing
   knowledge?