Article Abstract:
Researchers provide tips on evaluating qualitative medical studies. Much of medical research is quantitative, generating information about risk factors for disease and the usefulness of specific diagnostic tests and treatments. Qualitative research studies the social, emotional, and experiential phenomena in health care. Examples include the meaning of illness to patients and their families or the attitudes and behavior of patients and clinicians.
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Article Abstract:
A technique is described to help doctors use articles in the medical literature about disease probability to determine whether a patient has a specific disease. When analyzing a patient's symptoms, most doctors develop a differential diagnosis. This means that the doctor lists several diagnoses that are most likely to cause the symptoms. This involves knowing the probability that certain diseases would cause certain symptoms.
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Article Abstract:
Tips are provided to help doctors evaluate reports of qualitative research. Qualitative research looks at the social aspects of medicine, such as interactions, experiences, roles, perspectives, symbols, and organizations. Data may include notes taken during observation, audiotapes of discussions, and transcripts of interviews. Participants usually include patients, family members, nurses, social workers, and doctors.
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