Evidence-Based Project, Part 1: Identifying Research Methodologies
Is there a difference between “common practice” and “best practice”?
When you first went to work for your current organization, experienced colleagues may have shared with you details about processes and procedures. Perhaps you even attended an orientation session to brief you on these matters. As a “rookie,” you likely kept the nature of your questions to those with answers that would best help you perform your new role.
Over time and with experience, perhaps you recognized aspects of these processes and procedures that you wanted to question further. This is the realm of clinical inquiry.
Clinical inquiry is the practice of asking questions about clinical practice. To continuously improve patient care, all nurses should consistently use clinical inquiry to question why they are doing something the way they are doing it. Do they know why it is done this way, or is it just because we have always done it this way? Is it a common practice or a best practice?
In this Assignment, you will identify clinical areas of interest and inquiry and practice searching for research in support of maintaining or changing these practices. You will also analyze this research to compare research methodologies employed. Evidence-Based Project, Part 1: Identifying Research Methodologies
Resources
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
To Prepare:
- Review the Resources and identify a clinical issue of interest that can form the basis of a clinical inquiry. Keep in mind that the clinical issue you identify for your research will stay the same for the entire course.
- Based on the clinical issue of interest and using keywords related to the clinical issue of interest, search at least four different databases in the Walden Library to identify at least four relevant peer-reviewed articles related to your clinical issue of interest. You should not be using systematic reviews for this assignment, select original research articles.
- Review the results of your peer-reviewed research and reflect on the process of using an unfiltered database to search for peer-reviewed research.
- Reflect on the types of research methodologies contained in the four relevant peer-reviewed articles you selected.
Part 1: Identifying Research Methodologies
After reading each of the four peer-reviewed articles you selected, use the Matrix Worksheet template to analyze the methodologies applied in each of the four peer-reviewed articles. Your analysis should include the following:
- The full citation of each peer-reviewed article in APA format.
- A brief (1-paragraph) statement explaining why you chose this peer-reviewed article and/or how it relates to your clinical issue of interest, including a brief explanation of the ethics of research related to your clinical issue of interest.
- A brief (1-2 paragraph) description of the aims of the research of each peer-reviewed article.
- A brief (1-2 paragraph) description of the research methodology used. Be sure to identify if the methodology used was qualitative, quantitative, or a mixed-methods approach. Be specific.
- A brief (1- to 2-paragraph) description of the strengths of each of the research methodologies used, including reliability and validity of how the methodology was applied in each of the peer-reviewed articles you selected.
- Evidence-Based Project, Part 1: Identifying Research Methodologies
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Module 2: Evidence-Based Project, Part 1: Identifying Research Methodologies
Matrix Worksheet Template
Use this document to complete Part 1 of the Module 2 Assessment, Evidence-Based Project, Part 1: Identifying Research Methodologies
Issue of interest: The Effectiveness of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) in Reducing Opioid Relapse Rates Among Adults with Opioid Use Disorder
| Full citation of selected article | Article #1 | Article #2 | Article #3 | Article #4 |
| Chai, D., Rosic, T., Panesar, B., Sanger, N., van Reekum, E. A., Marsh, D. C., Worster, A., Thabane, L., & Samaan, Z. (2021). Patient-reported goals of youths in Canada receiving medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder. JAMA Network Open, 4(8), e2119600-e2119600. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.19600 | Fu, W., Victoria, A., & Nima, M. (2023). Demographics and clinical characteristics of patients with opioid use disorder and offered medication-assisted treatment in the emergency department. Cureus, 15(7). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.41464 | Rozenberg, I., & Kverno, K. (2021). Medication treatments for youth and young adults with opioid use disorder. Journal of Psychosocial Nursing & Mental Health Services, 59(5), 9-13. https://doi.org/10.3928/02793695-20210415-04 | Thompson, R. G., Bollinger, M., Mancino, M. J., Hasin, D., Han, X., Bush, K. A., Kilts, C. D., & James, G. A. (2023). Smartphone intervention to optimize medication-assisted treatment outcomes for opioid use disorder: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials, 24(1), 255. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-023-07213-3 | |
| Why you chose this article and/or how it relates to the clinical issue of interest (include a brief explanation of the ethics of research related to your clinical issue of interest) | The article by Chai et al. (2021) was chosen because it focuses on understanding patient-reported goals (PRGs) in youths receiving Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder (OUD), an area of significant importance but often overlooked in standard clinical measures like abstinence and retention. This study is particularly relevant to the clinical issue of interest, as it addresses the alignment of treatment interventions with the personal goals of young patients, potentially influencing their motivation and outcomes in treatment programs. The ethical consideration of this research underscores the importance of involving patients in their care plan, respecting their personal goals as a fundamental aspect of ethical clinical practice Evidence-Based Project, Part 1: Identifying Research Methodologies. | I selected the article by Fu et al. (2023) as it offers vital data on the demographics and clinical characteristics of patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) who are assessed for Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) in the emergency department (ED). This study is particularly relevant to the clinical issue of interest regarding the effectiveness of MAT in reducing opioid relapse rates. It provides insights into the initial screening and management of OUD in acute care settings, an essential step towards long-term treatment adherence and reduction in relapse. Ethically, this research upholds the importance of informed consent and protection of patient data, critical in studies involving vulnerable populations with OUD.
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I chose the article by Rozenberg and Kverno (2021) due to its focus on the complexities and therapeutic options available for treating opioid use disorder (OUD) in youth and young adults, a demographic often at heightened risk and requiring tailored intervention strategies. This article is highly pertinent to the clinical issue of interest, particularly the effectiveness of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) in reducing opioid relapse rates among different age groups. The ethical considerations surrounding the treatment of adolescents and young adults with OUD emphasize the need for careful risk-benefit analysis and the involvement of the patients’ support systems in treatment decisions. | The article by Thompson et al. (2023) was selected because it discusses an innovative approach to optimizing Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) outcomes for opioid use disorder using a smartphone intervention. This study is directly relevant to our clinical issue of interest, as it seeks to enhance MAT effectiveness through technology, potentially reducing relapse rates by providing real-time, context-sensitive support to patients. The ethical considerations in this research are critical, particularly regarding patient privacy and the use of digital data, ensuring that interventions respect the autonomy and confidentiality of participants while addressing their clinical needs. |
| Brief description of the aims of the research of each peer-reviewed article | Chai et al. (2021) aimed to identify the common patient-reported goals of youths receiving MAT for OUD and to assess the extent to which these goals are achieved during treatment. The study seeks to highlight the discrepancy between clinical outcomes typically measured in MAT programs and the personal treatment goals of the patients, thereby emphasizing the need for a more patient-centered approach in treatment planning and evaluation. | The primary aim of the research by Fu et al. (2023) was to investigate the demographics and clinical characteristics of OUD patients who were offered MAT in an ED setting. This study focuses on identifying the patterns in the administration of MAT, particularly buprenorphine, and how these patterns correlate with patient demographics, clinical presentations, and immediate treatment outcomes. The findings are intended to enhance understanding of the barriers to MAT initiation and adherence, thus informing future interventions to increase treatment uptake and reduce emergency department visits related to OUD. | The research by Rozenberg and Kverno (2021) aims to provide an overview of pharmacological treatments for OUD among youth and young adults. Specifically, the article examines the effectiveness and challenges associated with various MAT options, underscoring the necessity for comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment planning. The authors also highlight the significant barriers to treatment adherence within this population, which includes high rates of co-occurring psychiatric conditions and a general inclination towards risk-taking behaviors. | The primary aim of the study by Thompson et al. (2023) is to assess whether the smartphone app-based intervention, OptiMAT, can reduce opioid misuse among patients receiving outpatient MAT. A secondary aim is to evaluate the specific features of the OptiMAT app, such as GPS-driven just-in-time interventions, to determine which components are most effective in reducing opioid misuse. This research could significantly impact how digital tools are integrated into treatment plans for opioid use disorder, potentially leading to more personalized and effective recovery strategies. |
| Brief description of the research methodology used Be sure to identify if the methodology used was qualitative, quantitative, or a mixed-methods approach. Be specific. | This study employed a prospective cohort design, involving 152 youths aged 16 to 25 who were receiving MAT in various outpatient clinics. The methodology included detailed interviews to gather data on the participants’ goals at the beginning of the study, followed by a three-month follow-up to assess the achievement of these goals. The use of both qualitative (to categorize and understand PRGs) and quantitative (to statistically analyze goal attainment) methods qualifies this as a mixed-methods study, providing a comprehensive view of both the subjective and objective aspects of MAT outcomes. | The study by Fu et al. (2023) utilized a retrospective, single-center descriptive design. It examined the records of 129 adult patients who presented to the ED with OUD and were evaluated for MAT between July 2018 and July 2020. This quantitative methodology involved data extraction from electronic health records, followed by a statistical analysis of demographic and clinical data, including treatment outcomes. The researchers employed descriptive statistics to analyze the data, providing a snapshot of the patient population and treatment modalities used during the study period.
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The methodology in the article by Rozenberg and Kverno (2021) is a narrative review, synthesizing existing literature on the subject of MAT for youth and young adults with OUD. This qualitative approach involves a comprehensive analysis of recent studies, clinical guidelines, and statutory regulations pertinent to the pharmacological treatment of this demographic. The review covers a range of medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and examines their application within clinical settings. | Thompson et al. (2023) employ a two-arm, single-blind, randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of the OptiMAT smartphone app as an adjunctive tool in MAT for opioid use disorder. Participants are randomly assigned to either the standard MAT or MAT plus the OptiMAT app, with outcomes measured through urinalysis and self-reported data over a six-month period. This quantitative methodology allows for rigorous testing of the intervention’s efficacy against standard treatment, providing high-quality evidence on its potential benefits. |
| A brief description of the strengths of each of the research methodologies used, including reliability and validity of how the methodology was applied in each of the peer-reviewed articles you selected. | The mixed-methods approach is a significant strength of this study, allowing for a detailed exploration of both the qualitative aspects of patient goals and the quantitative outcomes associated with these goals. This approach provides a richer, more nuanced understanding of how well treatment aligns with patient expectations and needs, which is crucial for patient-centered care. Additionally, the prospective design enhances the study’s ability to causally link treatment interventions with outcomes, improving the reliability and validity of the findings. | The quantitative approach used in the study by Fu et al. (2023) has several strengths. It allows for the efficient analysis of large datasets to identify trends and patterns in MAT administration in the ED, which can be generalizable to similar settings. The use of retrospective data ensures a comprehensive overview of real-world practices and outcomes. Additionally, the descriptive analysis helps in understanding the demographic and clinical profiles of patients receiving MAT, which is crucial for tailoring interventions to specific population needs. The methodology’s reliability and validity are bolstered by the systematic data collection and analysis protocols, which reduce bias and enhance the accuracy of the findings. | The narrative review methodology employed by Rozenberg and Kverno (2021) allows for an in-depth examination of the complex issues surrounding the pharmacological treatment of youth and young adults with OUD. This approach is particularly beneficial in areas where clinical evidence may be limited or evolving, as it enables the integration of diverse sources of data to provide a comprehensive view of current practices and gaps in knowledge. By discussing the broader implications of pharmacological treatments, the review helps to highlight the importance of adaptive treatment strategies that address the specific needs of younger populations. | The randomized controlled trial (RCT) design used by Thompson et al. (2023) is a significant strength, as it is the gold standard for determining the efficacy of interventions. The study’s design allows for controlled comparisons between groups, minimizing bias and providing clear evidence of causality between the intervention and outcomes. Additionally, the use of both biological (urinalysis) and self-reported data helps validate the findings across different types of measurement, enhancing the reliability and validity of the results. |
| General Notes/Comments | The findings advocate for a shift in clinical practice to include patient goals as a standard component of treatment assessment and planning, which can lead to more effective and satisfying treatment experiences for patients.
Incorporating the typology of reviews from Grant and Booth (2009), this study could be categorized as a cohort study according to their definitions, offering a systematic approach to understanding how different methodologies can impact study outcomes and interpretations in health research settings (Grant & Booth, 2009). Evidence-Based Project, Part 1: Identifying Research Methodologies
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This study is significant as it addresses the gap in knowledge regarding the initiation of MAT in emergency settings, a critical point of intervention for individuals with OUD. By focusing on a single-center, the study offers detailed insights but also highlights the need for broader research to compare practices across different geographic and healthcare settings. Future research could expand on this work by exploring long-term outcomes of ED-initiated MAT and examining factors that influence patient decisions regarding treatment acceptance. Additionally, incorporating insights from evidence-based practice as outlined by Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt (2023) can further refine the methodologies and improve the quality of care delivered to this patient population (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2023).
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This article sheds light on the critical need for specialized approaches to MAT for younger individuals with OUD, a group that may not respond as well to traditional treatment paradigms designed for adults. The discussions on the unique vulnerabilities of youth and the ethical considerations in treating these individuals add depth to the understanding of MAT’s role in this context. For professionals involved in the treatment of OUD, this review underscores the importance of flexibility in treatment planning and the potential benefits of incorporating emerging therapies tailored to the developmental needs of adolescents and young adults. Integrating the insights from this review could significantly enhance the effectiveness of MAT programs by aligning them more closely with the developmental and psychosocial complexities of younger patients. | The integration of GPS-driven features to provide just-in-time interventions could represent a significant advancement in the field, offering new ways to support patients in maintaining sobriety. This approach aligns well with current trends towards digital health solutions and could set a precedent for future research and clinical practice in the treatment of substance use disorders.
To further substantiate the study’s adherence to robust research methodologies, it is essential to evaluate the resources utilized and determine whether they include primary sources that provide direct evidence on the matter, as recommended by the Walden University Library guidelines on evaluating resources (Walden University Library, n.d.).
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References
Chai, D., Rosic, T., Panesar, B., Sanger, N., van Reekum, E. A., Marsh, D. C., Worster, A., Thabane, L., & Samaan, Z. (2021). Patient-reported goals of youths in Canada receiving medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder. JAMA Network Open, 4(8), e2119600-e2119600. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.19600
Fu, W., Victoria, A., & Nima, M. (2023). Demographics and clinical characteristics of patients with opioid use disorder and offered medication-assisted treatment in the emergency department. Cureus, 15(7)https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.41464
Grant, M. J., & Booth, A. (2009). A typology of reviews: An analysis of 14 review types and associated methodologies. Health Information and Libraries Journal, 26, 91–108. doi:10.1111/j.1471-1842.2009.00848.x
Melnyk, B. M., & Fineout-Overholt, E. (2023). Evidence-based practice in nursing & healthcare: A guide to best practice (5th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.
Rozenberg, I., & Kverno, K. (2021). Medication treatments for youth and young adults with opioid use disorder. Journal of Psychosocial Nursing & Mental Health Services, 59(5), 9-13. https://doi.org/10.3928/02793695-20210415-04
Thompson, R. G., Bollinger, M., Mancino, M. J., Hasin, D., Han, X., Bush, K. A., Kilts, C. D., & James, G. A. (2023). Smartphone intervention to optimize medication-assisted treatment outcomes for opioid use disorder: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials, 24(1), 255. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-023-07213-3
Walden University Library. (n.d.). Evaluating resources: Primary & secondary sources. Retrieved January 22, 2020, from https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/library/evaluating/sources
Evidence-Based Project, Part 1: Identifying Research Methodologies