Demystifying nursing research terminology. Part 1.

AIM

This article aims to provide clear explanations of the research approaches available for nursing research.

BACKGROUND

There are numerous research approaches available to the nurse researcher. There is also some ambiguity in the literature in relation to research terminology and this often leads to confusion about which approach to adopt.

DATA SOURCES

A review of the available and most up-to-date literature.

DISCUSSION

The most commonly adopted approaches in nursing research are described and discussed.

CONCLUSION

This article explains the research paradigms and the rationales for choosing particular paradigms while part two will provide an explanation of the methodological options available to the researcher. A table is included that summarises the key information related to each paradigm.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE/RESEARCH: These articles will be particularly useful for the novice researcher or for the doctoral student.