CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF A QUALITATIVE JOURNAL ARTICLE - Essay Example

Download file to see previous pages Abstract: From the abstract, readers can have a glimpse of what the study entailed from the objectives to the methods used to the results and conclusions of the study. Each part of the abstract was clearly and succinctly explained. Although enough details were provided, the way it was written still makes readers want to read more. Introduction: The introduction was very short considering it was the part that gave the background literature, the rationale of the study as well as the problem statement. It did not beat around the bush by giving related but not relevant information but went straight to the point. Although this was effectively done, it still seemed as if it can do with more information about breast cancer, what patients usually experience, what radiotherapy is and how it works on cancer patients, as well as its side effects. After providing the general information, then it could focus on the main topic of the study. Krippendorff (2004) contends that existing theories or practices as well as the experience or knowledge of experts and previous research provide an abundance of developed constructs related to the topic. That is the reason why a comprehensive review of literature is necessary in any study (Elo & Kyngas, 2008). Although the authors were concise in their writing, they did not waste words with deviating from the topic at hand. They were judicious in the choice of sources, having used a variety, ranging from the 1990’s to the present. Points were explained clearly. That way, the reader is equipped with the necessary knowledge to understand the research better. The authors were clear on the goal of the study, which is “to use in-depth interviews and thematic analysis to provide a more explicit elaboration of the impact of skin toxicity” (p. 260). The information derived will be useful in understanding patient behaviours in response to radiotherapy and develop interventions to help ease their suffering. The interview gives participants the opportunity to express their own point of view regarding certain situations (Cohen et al., 2000). This would include their personal feelings, opinions, experiences and interpretations (Milena, Dainora & Alin, 2008). Such qualitative data derived may not be accessible in the methods of observation or questionnaire (Blaxter, Hughes & Tight, 2006). The qualitative interview tries to access this everyday life world. In addition, interviews allow respondents to give voice to their own experiences and understanding of their world. These analyzed experiences are then used to construct understandings of the social world. However, qualitative researchers need to be careful with the disadvantages of using the interview as a research method. As Robson (2002) mentioned, the interview process can be time-consuming, as it involves making arrangements, often having to reschedule appointments, the interview itself, and then writing up notes or transcribing the interview. One major disadvantage in any interview situation is the possibility ...Download file to see next pagesRead More