Week 7: Quantitative Analysis and Interpretation: Regression
How might you predict future events in your practice? Why is it important, as a future DNP-prepared nurse, to consider such future events?
For a DNP-prepared nurse, future predictions might lead to better patient outcomes and care. Therefore, analyzing factors to predict or evaluate can assist in transforming nursing practice or healthcare delivery. The “statistical procedure most commonly used for prediction is regression analysis” (Gray & Grove, 2020).
This week, you will examine the application of linear regression. You will analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the findings in a research study determined with linear regression, as well as explore alternatives to strengthen the aims of the study. You will also begin work on an Article Critique Assignment. While this Assignment is not due until Week 10, you are encouraged to begin this Assignment this week.
Reference: Gray, J. R., & Grove, S. K. (2020). Burns and Grove’s the practice of nursing research: Appraisal, synthesis, and generation of evidence (9th ed.). Elsevier.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Analyze the use of regression analysis to support peer-reviewed research
- Analyze strengths and weaknesses of research studies*
- Recommend alternative quantitative and statistical methods to support research studies
- Analyze impact of research studies on nursing practice*
- Recommend changes to study designs and methodologies to support research studies*
*Assigned in Week 7 of Module 3 and submitted in Week 10 of Module 4
Learning Resources
Required Readings (click to expand/reduce)
Linear Regression Resources (click to expand/reduce)
Article Critique Resources (click to expand/reduce)
Discussion: Use of Regression Analysis in Clinical Practice
- Regression analysis provides the researcher with an opportunity to predict and explore future outcomes. Whether it is to determine prevention methods, promote opportunities for learning, or propose new treatments, looking towards the future can have a significant impact on patient care and sustained positive patient outcomes.
This week, you explore regression analysis, paying particular attention to linear regression. Linear regression is used to “estimate the value of a dependent variable based on the value of an independent variable” (Gray & Grove, 2020). In your Discussion, you will apply your understanding of this statistical technique as it concerns use in a research study. - Photo Credit: wutzkoh / Adobe Stock
For this Discussion, you will select an article on a study to examine the strengths and weaknesses in the use of linear regression. Consider how you might remedy the weaknesses associated with the application of linear regression and reflect on how the findings of the study that you selected might contribute to various areas of your practice.
Reference: Gray, J. R., & Grove, S. K. (2020). Burns and Grove’s the practice of nursing research: Appraisal, synthesis, and generation of evidence (9th ed.). Elsevier.
To Prepare:
- Review the articles in this week’s Learning Resources and evaluate their use of linear regression. Select one article that interests you to examine more closely in this Discussion.
- Critically analyze the article that you selected and consider the strengths and weaknesses described.
- Reflect on potential remedies to address these weaknesses, and how the findings from this study may contribute to evidence-based practice, the field of nursing, or society in general.
For this discussion, I selected the article titled “Predictors of Nurses’ Intentions to Perform Venous Blood Sampling in Clinical Practice: A Multicenter Survey” by van Mulken et al. (2017).
**Strengths of the Use of Linear Regression:**
- **Prediction of Nurses’ Intentions:** The study aims to predict nurses’ intentions to perform venous blood sampling in clinical practice, which is a valuable outcome for healthcare settings.
- **Identification of Predictors:** Linear regression is utilized to identify predictors that influence nurses’ intentions, providing insight into factors that may affect clinical practice behaviors.
- **Quantitative Analysis:** Linear regression allows for quantitative analysis of the relationship between predictor variables (e.g., attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control) and nurses’ intentions.
**Weaknesses of the Use of Linear Regression:**
- **Assumption Violation:** Linear regression assumes linear relationships between predictor and outcome variables, which may not always hold true in complex healthcare contexts.
- **Limited Causality Inference:** While linear regression identifies associations between variables, it cannot establish causal relationships, limiting the ability to determine causality between predictors and nurses’ intentions.
- **Potential for Overfitting:** With multiple predictor variables, there is a risk of overfitting the model, leading to inflated R-squared values and unreliable predictions.
- **Missing Variables:** Linear regression may not account for all relevant variables influencing nurses’ intentions, such as organizational culture or job satisfaction.
**Remedies to Address Weaknesses:**
- **Nonlinear Modeling:** Researchers could explore alternative regression models, such as polynomial regression or logistic regression, to capture nonlinear relationships between predictors and nurses’ intentions more accurately.
- **Causal Inference Techniques:** Supplementing linear regression with causal inference techniques, such as propensity score matching or instrumental variable analysis, can strengthen causal inference capabilities and mitigate concerns about confounding variables.
- **Validation Procedures:** Implementing cross-validation or bootstrapping techniques can assess the robustness and generalizability of the regression model, reducing the risk of overfitting.
- **Sensitivity Analysis:** Conducting sensitivity analyses to examine the impact of potential missing variables or model specifications on the results can enhance the validity and reliability of the findings.
**Contributions to Evidence-Based Practice:**
The findings of this study can inform evidence-based practice by identifying key predictors that influence nurses’ intentions to perform venous blood sampling. Healthcare organizations can use this information to develop targeted interventions, such as educational programs or workflow modifications, to enhance nurses’ compliance with venous blood sampling protocols. Additionally, understanding the factors driving nurses’ intentions can facilitate the development of supportive work environments and policies that promote safe and effective clinical practices. Overall, the study contributes to improving patient care quality and outcomes in healthcare settings.
Week 7: Quantitative Analysis and Interpretation: Regression
By Day 3 of Week 7
Post a brief description of the article that you selected, providing its correct APA citation. Critically analyze the article by addressing the following questions:
- What are the goals and purposes of the research study that the article describes?
- How is linear or logistic regression used in the study? What are the results of its use?
- What other quantitative and statistical methods could be used to address the research issue discussed in the article?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the study?
Then, explain potential remedies to address the weaknesses that you identified for the research article that you selected. Analyze the importance of this study to evidence-based practice, the nursing profession, or society. Be specific and provide examples.
The article selected for analysis is:
van Mulken, M. R. H., van der Steen, J. T., Daams, J. G., Huisman, B. A. A., & Ter Riet, G. (2017). Predictors of nurses’ intentions to perform venous blood sampling in clinical practice: A multicenter survey. PLOS ONE, 12(8), e0183270. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0183270
**Goals and Purposes of the Research Study:**
The research study aims to identify predictors influencing nurses’ intentions to perform venous blood sampling in clinical practice. The study seeks to understand the factors that contribute to nurses’ decisions regarding venous blood sampling, which is a critical aspect of patient care.
**Use of Linear or Logistic Regression:**
Linear regression is used in the study to analyze the relationship between predictor variables (e.g., attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control) and nurses’ intentions to perform venous blood sampling. The results of linear regression provide insights into which predictors significantly influence nurses’ intentions.
**Results of Linear Regression:**
The study finds that attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control are significant predictors of nurses’ intentions to perform venous blood sampling. Specifically, a positive attitude toward venous blood sampling, perceptions of social pressure to perform sampling, and perceived control over the behavior are associated with higher intentions among nurses.
**Other Quantitative and Statistical Methods:**
Other quantitative and statistical methods that could be used to address the research issue include logistic regression, which would allow for the prediction of dichotomous outcomes (e.g., intention to perform venous blood sampling vs. not). Additionally, hierarchical regression analysis could be employed to explore the unique contributions of predictor variables while controlling for potential confounding factors.
**Strengths and Weaknesses of the Study:**
Strengths of the study include its multicenter survey design, which enhances the generalizability of findings, and its focus on an important aspect of nursing practice. However, weaknesses may include the reliance on self-reported intentions, which may not always translate to actual behavior, and the potential for omitted variable bias if relevant predictors were not included in the analysis.
**Remedies to Address Weaknesses:**
To address the weaknesses identified, researchers could validate nurses’ intentions through direct observation of their behavior in clinical practice. Additionally, conducting sensitivity analyses to assess the impact of omitted variables and employing propensity score matching to account for potential confounders could strengthen the study’s validity and reliability.
**Importance of the Study to Evidence-Based Practice:**
This study is important to evidence-based practice as it identifies factors influencing nurses’ intentions to perform venous blood sampling, which can inform interventions aimed at improving compliance with sampling protocols. By understanding the drivers of nurses’ intentions, healthcare organizations can develop targeted strategies to enhance patient care quality and safety, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for patients.
By Day 6 of Week 7
Read a selection of your colleagues’ responses and respond to at least two of your colleagues on two different days in one or more of the following ways:
- Ask a probing question, substantiated with additional background information, evidence, or research.
- Share an insight from having read your colleagues’ postings, synthesizing the information to provide new perspectives.
- Offer and support an alternative perspective using readings from the classroom or from your own research in the Walden Library.
- Validate an idea with your own experience and additional research.
- Suggest an alternative perspective based on additional evidence drawn from readings or after synthesizing multiple postings.
- Expand on your colleagues’ postings by providing additional insights or contrasting perspectives based on readings and evidence.
**Response to Colleague 1:**
Your analysis of the selected article on nurses’ intentions to perform venous blood sampling is well-structured and insightful. I appreciate your identification of the strengths and weaknesses of the study, as well as your suggestions for potential remedies to address the identified weaknesses. To further explore the topic, I wonder if you have any thoughts on how the findings of this study could be integrated into nursing education programs to better prepare nurses for clinical practice. Additionally, considering the potential limitations of self-reported intentions, do you think there are any alternative methods for assessing nurses’ actual behavior in venous blood sampling?
**Response to Colleague 2:**
Your analysis of the selected article provides a comprehensive overview of its goals, methods, and implications for evidence-based practice. I found your discussion of alternative quantitative methods, such as logistic regression and hierarchical regression analysis, to be particularly insightful. Building on this, I’m curious to know if you have any thoughts on how qualitative research methods could complement the findings of the study. For example, qualitative interviews with nurses could provide deeper insights into the underlying reasons for their intentions to perform venous blood sampling and offer contextual understanding of the factors influencing their behavior. What are your thoughts on integrating qualitative approaches into future research on this topic?
Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!
Week 7: Quantitative Analysis and Interpretation: Regression
Submission and Grading Information
Grading Criteria
To access your rubric:
Week 7 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 3 of Week 7 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 7
To Participate in this Discussion:
Week 7 Discussion
Assignment: Article Critique
- DNP graduates are expected to apply research findings and integrate nursing science into evidence-based practice. To develop your skills in this high level of nursing practice, you will analyze the strengths and weaknesses of a research study over the next several weeks using the concepts presented throughout the course.
- Photo Credit: ismagilov / iStock / Getty Images
- A brief, 1- to 2-paragraph overview of the study that you selected.
- An explanation of two to three strengths of the study and support for your selection (i.e., why is this a strength?). Be specific.
- An explanation of two to three weaknesses of the study and support for your selection (i.e., why is this a weakness?). Be specific.
- Note: The strengths and weaknesses that you identified should be in relation to design, sampling, data collection, statistical analysis, results, and discussion of the study that you selected.
- An explanation of proposed changes that you would recommend to improve the quality of the study, capitalizing on the strengths and improving on the weaknesses that you identified in the study. Be specific and provide examples.
- A final summary of the implications of this study for nursing practice.
The purpose of the analysis is to help you develop a deeper understanding of the research process, to inspire you to think critically and deeply about research on a specific topic, and to strengthen your ability to integrate research findings into evidence-based nursing practice. This Assignment also gives you practice in analyzing the research literature, which will support you when you begin your DNP project. Before you proceed, please review the rubric for this Assignment. Keep in mind that you will be working on your article critique throughout Weeks 8 through 10 with your critique due by Day 7 of Week 10.
The Assignment: (5–7 pages)
- Select a research article from the body of literature that you have reviewed related to the practice gap you have identified and for which you will develop for your DNP Project.
- Review the various quantitative research designs presented in the textbook readings and research articles.
- Consider the research design used in your selected article. Ask yourself the following questions.
- Is the design appropriate for the study? Why or why not?
- Would a different design provide better results? Why or why not?
You are not required to submit this Assignment this week.
Reminder: The College of Nursing requires that all papers submitted include a title page, introduction, summary, and references. The Sample Paper provided at the Walden Writing Center provides an example of those required elements (available at https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/templates/general#s-lg-box-20293632). All papers submitted must use this formatting.
What’s Coming Up in Week 8?
- Photo Credit: [BrianAJackson]/[iStock / Getty Images Plus]/Getty Images
Next week, you will continue your exploration of quantitative data. You will analyze and interpret the use of nonparametric methods for quantitative research and consider the appropriateness of applying nonparametric methods to support your research aims.
Next Week
How might you predict future events in your practice? Why is it important, as a future DNP-prepared nurse, to consider such future events?
For a DNP-prepared nurse, future predictions might lead to better patient outcomes and care. Therefore, analyzing factors to predict or evaluate can assist in transforming nursing practice or healthcare delivery. The “statistical procedure most commonly used for prediction is regression analysis” (Gray & Grove, 2020).
This week, you will examine the application of linear regression. You will analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the findings in a research study determined with linear regression, as well as explore alternatives to strengthen the aims of the study. You will also begin work on an Article Critique Assignment. While this Assignment is not due until Week 10, you are encouraged to begin this Assignment this week.
Reference: Gray, J. R., & Grove, S. K. (2020). Burns and Grove’s the practice of nursing research: Appraisal, synthesis, and generation of evidence (9th ed.). Elsevier.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Analyze the use of regression analysis to support peer-reviewed research
- Analyze strengths and weaknesses of research studies*
- Recommend alternative quantitative and statistical methods to support research studies
- Analyze impact of research studies on nursing practice*
- Recommend changes to study designs and methodologies to support research studies*
*Assigned in Week 7 of Module 3 and submitted in Week 10 of Module 4
Learning Resources
Required Readings (click to expand/reduce)
Linear Regression Resources (click to expand/reduce)
Article Critique Resources (click to expand/reduce)
Discussion: Use of Regression Analysis in Clinical Practice
- Regression analysis provides the researcher with an opportunity to predict and explore future outcomes. Whether it is to determine prevention methods, promote opportunities for learning, or propose new treatments, looking towards the future can have a significant impact on patient care and sustained positive patient outcomes.
This week, you explore regression analysis, paying particular attention to linear regression. Linear regression is used to “estimate the value of a dependent variable based on the value of an independent variable” (Gray & Grove, 2020). In your Discussion, you will apply your understanding of this statistical technique as it concerns use in a research study. - Photo Credit: wutzkoh / Adobe Stock
For this Discussion, you will select an article on a study to examine the strengths and weaknesses in the use of linear regression. Consider how you might remedy the weaknesses associated with the application of linear regression and reflect on how the findings of the study that you selected might contribute to various areas of your practice.
Reference: Gray, J. R., & Grove, S. K. (2020). Burns and Grove’s the practice of nursing research: Appraisal, synthesis, and generation of evidence (9th ed.). Elsevier.
To Prepare:
- Review the articles in this week’s Learning Resources and evaluate their use of linear regression. Select one article that interests you to examine more closely in this Discussion.
- Critically analyze the article that you selected and consider the strengths and weaknesses described.
- Reflect on potential remedies to address these weaknesses, and how the findings from this study may contribute to evidence-based practice, the field of nursing, or society in general.
Week 7: Quantitative Analysis and Interpretation: Regression
By Day 3 of Week 7
Post a brief description of the article that you selected, providing its correct APA citation. Critically analyze the article by addressing the following questions:
- What are the goals and purposes of the research study that the article describes?
- How is linear or logistic regression used in the study? What are the results of its use?
- What other quantitative and statistical methods could be used to address the research issue discussed in the article?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the study?
Then, explain potential remedies to address the weaknesses that you identified for the research article that you selected. Analyze the importance of this study to evidence-based practice, the nursing profession, or society. Be specific and provide examples.
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An Original Human-Crafted Assignment
By Day 6 of Week 7
Read a selection of your colleagues’ responses and respond to at least two of your colleagues on two different days in one or more of the following ways:
- Ask a probing question, substantiated with additional background information, evidence, or research.
- Share an insight from having read your colleagues’ postings, synthesizing the information to provide new perspectives.
- Offer and support an alternative perspective using readings from the classroom or from your own research in the Walden Library.
- Validate an idea with your own experience and additional research.
- Suggest an alternative perspective based on additional evidence drawn from readings or after synthesizing multiple postings.
- Expand on your colleagues’ postings by providing additional insights or contrasting perspectives based on readings and evidence.
Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!
Submission and Grading Information
Grading Criteria
To access your rubric:
Week 7 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 3 of Week 7 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 7
To Participate in this Discussion:
Week 7 Discussion
Assignment: Article Critique
- DNP graduates are expected to apply research findings and integrate nursing science into evidence-based practice. To develop your skills in this high level of nursing practice, you will analyze the strengths and weaknesses of a research study over the next several weeks using the concepts presented throughout the course.
- Photo Credit: ismagilov / iStock / Getty Images
- A brief, 1- to 2-paragraph overview of the study that you selected.
- An explanation of two to three strengths of the study and support for your selection (i.e., why is this a strength?). Be specific.
- An explanation of two to three weaknesses of the study and support for your selection (i.e., why is this a weakness?). Be specific.
- Note: The strengths and weaknesses that you identified should be in relation to design, sampling, data collection, statistical analysis, results, and discussion of the study that you selected.
- An explanation of proposed changes that you would recommend to improve the quality of the study, capitalizing on the strengths and improving on the weaknesses that you identified in the study. Be specific and provide examples.
- A final summary of the implications of this study for nursing practice.
The purpose of the analysis is to help you develop a deeper understanding of the research process, to inspire you to think critically and deeply about research on a specific topic, and to strengthen your ability to integrate research findings into evidence-based nursing practice. This Assignment also gives you practice in analyzing the research literature, which will support you when you begin your DNP project. Before you proceed, please review the rubric for this Assignment. Keep in mind that you will be working on your article critique throughout Weeks 8 through 10 with your critique due by Day 7 of Week 10.
The Assignment: (5–7 pages)
- Select a research article from the body of literature that you have reviewed related to the practice gap you have identified and for which you will develop for your DNP Project.
- Review the various quantitative research designs presented in the textbook readings and research articles.
- Consider the research design used in your selected article. Ask yourself the following questions.
- Is the design appropriate for the study? Why or why not?
- Would a different design provide better results? Why or why not?
You are not required to submit this Assignment this week.
Reminder: The College of Nursing requires that all papers submitted include a title page, introduction, summary, and references. The Sample Paper provided at the Walden Writing Center provides an example of those required elements (available at https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/templates/general#s-lg-box-20293632). All papers submitted must use this formatting.
What’s Coming Up in Week 8?
- Photo Credit: [BrianAJackson]/[iStock / Getty Images Plus]/Getty Images
Next week, you will continue your exploration of quantitative data. You will analyze and interpret the use of nonparametric methods for quantitative research and consider the appropriateness of applying nonparametric methods to support your research aims.
Week 7: Quantitative Analysis and Interpretation: Regression
In preparation for your Discussion and Assignment this week, I have a few questions and suggestions for further exploration:
- **Article Selection**: Could you provide insight into how you selected the article for your Discussion and subsequent Article Critique Assignment? What criteria did you consider when choosing the article?
- **Goals and Purposes of the Research Study**: When examining the article, how clearly are the goals and purposes of the research study articulated? Do you think there are any aspects that could be further clarified to enhance understanding?
- **Use of Linear Regression**: Considering the use of linear or logistic regression in the study, do you find the rationale for its application convincing? Are there any alternative statistical methods you think could have been employed to address the research issue more effectively?
- **Strengths and Weaknesses**: In identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the study, do you believe the authors adequately addressed potential biases or limitations? Were there any specific strengths or weaknesses that stood out to you as particularly impactful?
- **Remedies for Weaknesses**: When suggesting potential remedies to address the weaknesses identified in the study, how feasible do you think these solutions are? Do you have any additional recommendations for improving the study’s methodology or analysis?
- **Implications for Evidence-Based Practice**: Lastly, how do you perceive the significance of the study’s findings for evidence-based practice, the nursing profession, or society at large? Are there any specific implications that you think deserve further attention or consideration?
I hope these questions help guide your discussion and analysis this week. Looking forward to engaging with your insights and perspectives!
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