Analysing data in quantitative research

This chapter describes statistical procedures commonly used in nursing and midwifery research: descriptive statistics (statistics used to describe a sample or population) and inferential statistics (statistics used to determine differences between samples or relationships of variables). A researcher does not need detailed knowledge of how to calculate these statistics but does need to understand what they mean, how they are used, how they are presented and their key limitations. It is also important for clinicians to understand how to critically read and evaluate research studies to be able to apply and provide evidence-based care. While acknowledging there are certain challenges and barriers (e.g. time constraints, insufficient support, insufficient knowledge of research and statistical analysis), nurses are increasingly involved in clinical decision-making, and are expected to utilise best evidence to make effective and justifiable decisions.