What is Quantitative and Qualitative Research?
Quantitative research is a methodology that relies on the exploration of numerical patterns, and it can be precisely measured. Using scientific inquiry, quantitative research relies on data that are observed or measured to examine research questions. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT), Systematic Reviews, and Meta-Analysis are all examples of Quantitative research.
Qualitative research refers to any research based on something that is impossible to accurately and precisely measure. It focuses on the "why" rather than the "what" and relies on the direct experiences of human beings as meaning-making agents in their every day lives. Case studies, Ethnography, Grounded Theory, Narrative Studies or Focus Groups, are all examples of Qualitative research.
Finding Quantitative and Qualitative Research in PubMed and CINAHL
The best way to find quantitative and/or qualitative articles in either PubMed or CINAHL is to search by publication type.
| CINAHL (Quantitative Publications) | PubMed (Quantitative Publications) |
| Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT) | Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT) |
| Systematic Reviews | Systematic Reviews |
| Meta-Analysis | Meta-Analysis |
| CINAHL (Qualitative Publications) | PubMed (Qualitative Publications) |
| Case Study or Anecdote | Case Studies |
| Editorial or Interview | Observational |
| Meta Synthesis | Personal Narratives |
What is Primary Research?
Primary research in nursing is one that reports the original findings of a study or experiment. It is usually written by the person(s) conducting the research, and is often found in peer reviewed journals.
| Primary Research Publications |
| Case studies |
| Clinical trials or randomized clinical trials (RCT) |
| Cohort studies |
| Dissertations or theses |
| Survey research |
What is Secondary Research?
Secondary Research is one that summarizes, synthesizes or comments on original research. The Author(s) describe research done by others.
| Secondary Research Publications |
| Clinical practice guidelines |
| Meta-analysis |
| Patient education material |
| Reviews of literature |
| Systematic reviews |
Finding Primary Research in PubMed and CINAHL
To find primary research in PubMed and CINAHL, you'll need to filter by article type. Trying searching for Clinical Trials, Randomized Controlled Trials, or Case Study/Reports in either database to find primary research.