CORRELATIONS
Discussion: Correlational Research
Correlational studies on healthcare might be useful in investigating the link between nurse-patient interaction and patient satisfaction with care (Papastavrou et al., 2014). The proposed research query for the study would be: ‘
What is the correlation between the quality of nurse-patient communication and patient satisfaction?’ To examine this inquiry, the null hypothesis may assert that there is no statistically significant association between nurse-patient interaction and patient satisfaction, whereas the alternative hypothesis could suggest that there is a statistically substantial positive correlation. The dependent variable in the research could be patient satisfaction with care, which is assessed subjectively through patient perspectives and opinions. Contrastingly, the independent variable would be the quality of nurse-patient interactions, which may be quantified using approved communication evaluation tools.
It is expected that there will be a positive relationship between the variables in the research, indicating that there is a direct relationship between the quality of nurse-patient interaction and patient satisfaction. The prediction is based on the assumption that proficient communication enhances a positive patient experience, therefore, enhancing trust, understanding, and general satisfaction with nursing care. When nurses practice active listening, offer concise clarifications, and address patient issues, the patients will have a satisfactory experience (Alasad et al., 2015). However, multiple variables could influence this correlation. Patients’ perceptions and responses to communication may be influenced by external factors including patient demographics and healthcare literacy. Patients with inadequate healthcare literacy may experience challenges in understanding medical information, which might significantly impact their level of satisfaction, even if the communication is of excellent quality. Furthermore, organizational variables, such as the number of staff members, may affect the communication between nurses and patients, consequently affecting the level of satisfaction experienced by patients (Findik et al., 2010). Conducting correlational research in this setting may offer useful insights into the underlying dynamics of the link between nurse-patient communication and patient satisfaction without indicating causality. Although causality cannot be determined through correlational research, the results can provide valuable insights for initiatives targeting the improvement of communication techniques to improve the overall patient experience.
In conclusion, correlational studies are an effective approach for investigating the links between variables, especially in clinical settings. The proposed research intends to investigate the link between nurse-patient communication and patient satisfaction by using correlational research and the findings might guide evidence-based practice. The stated hypotheses, dependent and independent variables, and expectations establish the framework for developing research that has the potential to offer valuable insights for improving patient care and patient satisfaction.
References
Alasad, J., Tabar, N. A., & AbuRuz, M. E. (2015). Patient satisfaction with nursing care.
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Findik, U. Y., Unsar, S., & Sut, N. (2010). Patient satisfaction with nursing care and its relationship with patient characteristics.
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Papastavrou, E., Andreou, P., Tsangari, H., & Merkouris, A. (2014). Linking patient satisfaction with nursing care: the case of care rationing-a correlational study.
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