In general, quantitative research measures or counts to answer a specific research question. In this process, the original data obtained by a researcher are traditionally language-based or numerical. The research may be defined as quantitative if the study’s ultimate output implies the analysis of a measurement of a count. The scientific method of quantitative research is based on the philosophy of logical positivism that regards empirical discovery that is able to be observed in some way as the only reliable source of knowledge. As a matter of fact, it provides a better understanding of three major aspects of reality – cause-and-effect relationships, incidence, and connections between two hypotheses or ideas.
The analyses of patient safety events occurred on two medical units of a major urban hospital during one month demonstrate considerably high rates of medication errors and adverse effects of treatment, especially among the middle-aged population. The average age of patients in the data set is 54,8 years. Patients are predominantly female, however, the difference between the number of men and women is not crucial, and it cannot be considered or influence the results of the research. The most common primary diagnoses are pneumonia, diabetes, and congestive heart failure. In turn, the percentages of fall incidents and medication errors are the highest and reach 38% and 30%, respectively. The rates of comorbid infections may be regarded as considerable as well.
It goes without saying that the medical setting should develop and implement appropriate strategies in order to decrease and prevent the occurrence of patient safety events. However, for the efficient application of preventative practices, it is essential to receive additional information concerning the hospital’s inner organization. In general, solid teamwork culture and improved patient safety are directly associated with the reduction of patient harm within hospitals and other medical units. If employees do not follow specific guidelines, their intercommunication is poor, and personal responsibility for health care delivery is absent, medication administration and other medical errors frequently occur. In addition, information about education and working conditions of nurse practitioners may help to reduce patient safety events.
Registered nurses play an immeasurably significant role in medical settings as they frequently provide the connection between medical staff, patients, and their families. That is why their licensure and an adequate number of working hours positively contribute to the accuracy of health care delivery that reduces errors and other adverse effects of the treatment. For further research, it may be reasonable to request additional information concerning the education, working experience, and schedule of staff involved in treatment and health care delivery.