Systematic Review, Research Paper Example

Introduction

An evaluation of a systematic research review related to nursing practice provides a means of addressing an important issue from a variety of perspectives to identify the responses to specific questions and to consider creative solutions to important problems that impact nursing practice in different ways (Melynk & Fineout-Overholt, 2011). Systematic reviews are effective means of gathering existing research and expanding knowledge to enable specific problems to be addressed through research and related evidence (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2011). From this perspective, it may be argued that systematic research reviews provide a comprehensive point of view in regards to one or more research questions that influence how nursing practice objectives are achieved (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2011).

Analysis

An article by Cummings et.al (2009) considers the importance of leadership and its impact on nursing practice through the achievement of outcomes and the potential advancement of the work environment. This issue is relevant because nurses must be able to provide a valuable contribution to nursing practice that is dependent on effective leadership that encompasses different styles to promote viable solutions to common problems (Cummings et.al, 2009). The article examines leadership styles such as transformational leadership through motivation, individualized consideration to maximize potential, task-focused leadership, and transactional leadership, among others (Cummings et.al, 2009). How these leadership styles relate to the workplace environment are of particular importance for nurses in order to enhance productivity and performance (Cummings et.al, 2009).

The authors examined 53 studies that were identified by using electronic databases and abstracts, including only peer-reviewed research, leadership measurements, leadership outcomes, and leadership and outcomes on the work environment (Cummings et.al, 2009). The studies were considered if they were written in English and were grouped according to one of the aforementioned focus areas (Cummings et.al, 2009). A quality assessment and validity tool was used to address study design, sample, measurement, and statistical analysis to ensure that the level of quality was appropriate for inclusion (Cummings et.al, 2009). After identifying 34,664 abstracts and titles, 53 studies were selected for inclusion and were quantitative in nature, with 32 of the studies taking place in North America (Cummings et.al, 2009).

Study weaknesses included design, analysis, and sampling concerns, and although the studies used correlational designs in many examples, these studies do not permit extensive causality (Cummings et.al, 2009). In these instances, it is difficult to use random sampling methods in leadership studies (Cummings et.al, 2009). However, the studies demonstrated an important use of theory, and this was important in providing a framework for developing new perspectives regarding leadership theories that may be valuable in advancing nursing practice outcomes and performance in the workplace setting (Cummings et.al, 2009).

Conclusion

The systematic review revealed a number of important themes that reflected a means of evaluating multiple leadership perspectives that might benefit nursing practice. The review indicates that there are significant factors associated with creating an environment to enable nursing leaders to improve performance and the workplace environment by employing different leadership styles accordingly to accomplish these objectives (Cummings et.al, 2009). These factors supported the use of specific leadership tools and strategies to improve nursing practice over time, given the options that are available to positively impact performance and the work environment effectively (Cummings et.al, 2009).

References

Cummings, G. G., MacGregor, T., Davey, M., Lee, H., Wong, C. A., Lo, E., & Stafford, E. (2010). Leadership styles and outcome patterns for the nursing workforce and work environment: a systematic review. International journal of nursing studies, 47(3), 363-385.

Melnyk, B.M., & Fineout-Overholt, E. (2011). Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing & Healthcare: A Guide to Best Practice. LWW.