Tips for Finding Qualitative Research

Qualitative research in nursing mainly deals with the lived experiences of patients and nurses, information which may not be obtainable through quantitative methods of research. 

• Tends to be more subjective.
• Observations tend to be described in words.
• Samples tend to be purposeful and small.
• Data collection can include:
  • interviews
  • focus groups
  • filed observations
  • participant observation
  • case study

See more from CREDO Encyclopedia of Nursing Research (Must be on campus or have a COM account to view). 

Extracted from Women’s perspectives on postpartum depression screening in pediatric settings: a preliminary study (Must be on campus or have a COM account to view the entire article).

The databases below have qualitative articles. Nursing research requires that sources not be older than 5 years unless of historical interest. Each database has a way to limit dates; tips for each are listed below. The way to get the qualitative articles is to:

Gale Databases

1. Search for your topic  
2. On the result list, expand the Subjects option> find qualitative and select it. Now all articles will be qualitative. 
3. Expand Publication date and enter a date range that spans 5 years. Alternatively you could use the quick limit Past Year. 

Health Research Premium Collection

1. Search for your topic but add the term AND qualitative.
2. On the result list, expand the subject option> select more> then check the boxes next to qualitative research‎‎. Now all articles will be  qualitative research. 
3. Under Publication date, select Last 5 years.

ScienceDirect

1. Search for your topic but add the term AND qualitative.
2. On the result list, under Subject areas, select Nursing and Health Professions.
3. Under Years, select a span of 5 years or less.