NRS 433 Describe sampling theory and provide examples to illustrate your definition 

NRS 433 Describe sampling theory and provide examples to illustrate your definition 

Sampling theory is a fundamental aspect of nursing research. It involves selecting a subset of participants or data from a larger population to draw accurate conclusions (UNext Editorial Team, 2023). “Theoretical sampling is a qualitative sampling technique that evolves over the course of a study as the researcher begins to understand more from the emerging data” (Curtis & Keeler, 2021). It ensures the representativeness of the sample, which is crucial for generalizability, the extent to which study findings can be applied to a broader population. For instance, in a study examining the effectiveness of a new pain management protocol in a hospital, random sampling of patients from diverse units ensures a more generalizable outcome than selecting only surgical patients. Convenience sampling, like surveying only willing volunteers, may limit generalizability, as it could exclude those less motivated to participate.

Generalizability in nursing research refers to the extent to which the findings of a study can be applied or generalized to a larger population beyond the specific sample that was studied (Garzon, 2022). When conducting nursing research, it’s crucial to carefully consider the sampling methods used in order to advance evidence-based practice.

References:

Curtis, A. & Keeler, C.  (2021).  Sampling Design in Nursing Research.  AJN, American Journal of Nursing,  121 (3),  53-57.  doi: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000737304.14564.51.

UNext Editorial Team. (2023, March 1). What is Sampling Theory? Definition, Terms, and Applications | UNext | UNext. UNext. https://u-next.com/blogs/business-analytics/what-is-sampling-theory-definition-terms-and-applications/