title: Introduction to qualitative research.
abstract: The purpose of this article is to introduce practicing nurses to qualitative research. Qualitative research terms are defined, philosophy of science is briefly discussed, and several types of qualitative research studies are described. A hermeneutic phenomenological study of infant colic is described as an example of qualitative research useful in gastroenterology nursing. Finally, suggested criteria for evaluating a qualitative study are introduced.
authors.affiliation: Indiana University School of Nursing Family Health, Rm. 451L, 1111 Middle Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202-5107, USA. mlellett@iupui.edu
authors.forename: Marsha L Cirgin
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Ellett
authors.forename: Carol C
authors.initials: CC
authors.lastname: Beausang
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D015400:Clinical Nursing Research / Q000592:standards* / Q000639:trends; D005260:Female; D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D011786:Quality Control; D012107:Research Design; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014481:United States