A sample of orthopedic clients varies greatly in their requests for po

A sample of orthopedic clients varies greatly in their requests for postsurgical analgesics. Which type of nursing research would best examine a prospective group of clients in determining what factors affect their alterations in comfort?

1. Historical research
2. Evaluation research
3. Correlational research
4. Experimental research

ANSWER

ANS: 3
Correlational research explores the interrelationships among variables of interest (such as factors affecting client comfort) without any active intervention by the researcher.
Historical research is designed to establish facts and relationships concerning past events. It would not use prospective groups of clients.
Evaluation research tests how well a program, practice, or policy is working.
In experimental research, the investigator controls the study variable and randomly assigns sub-jects to different conditions.