NUR2300 Evidenced Based Nursing Practice Semester 2, 2018 Assessment 1 – Written Due Date: 4th October 2018, 2355hrs

Total Weighting: 40% Marks /100 Word Count: 1600 words max Assignment Aim:

To conduct a systematic review of primary research, using a PICO (T) formatted clinical research question. To provide evidence from clinical research to inform changes or improvements to nursing practice. Present this evidence as a written research report and annotated bibliography.

Step 1. Develop a research question, using the PICO (T) format. This question should be related to one of the key chronic conditions listed by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports-statistics/health- conditions-disability deaths/chronic-disease/about)

It is recommended that once you have developed your research question, you consult with your tutor.

Step 2: Conduct a literature search looking for Three (3) primary research articles which answer your chosen question. These articles should be presented as an annotated bibliography at the end of your systematic review/ research report.

Step 3: Write a systematic review, research report which answers your clinical research question. The report should include the following information:

1. a)  Research Question: Provide your research question and describe how you developed the question (100 words)
2. b)  Evaluationofresearch:Chooseoneprimaryresearcharticleandbrieflywritea critique of the research design, process, ethics and findings within the article. This section should demonstrate your understanding of research paradigms, methods and process. (200 words).
3. c)  Research Topic: Describe the research topic and how it relates to improving health outcomes for people with chronic conditions. (See National Strategic Framework for Chronic Diseases) (250 words)
4. d)  Literature Review: Discuss how the evidence you have found within the research literature (include all 3 articles plus any others) could make an impact on future nursing practice and the health outcomes for patients/clients. This should be a dissemination of research findings and the implications for changes to practice. (800 words)

Assessment 1 NUR2300 Semester 2 2018

1. e) Recommendation Future Research: Provide a recommendation for future research including a suggested research methodology and research methods (200 words).

Submission instructions

All assessment must be submitted via the Turnitin link in study desk by the due date. Late penalty will apply to submissions without an extension. APA referencing must be used throughout. Any questions or concerns please contact your offer examiner or the overall examiner. Contact details are in your course study desk.

                                                          ANSWERS

Back challenges have adverse impacts on an individual’s quality of life. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics 2014-2015, approximately 3.7 million individuals have back issues. The National Health Survey further estimates that about 70%-90% of Australians will face lower back challenges in their lifetime (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2015). Prevention and management of the condition entail both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches such as maintaining healthy weight and physiotherapy. This paper, therefore, compares the effectiveness of exercise therapy and reducing obesity in reducing lower back pain and hospitalization among the aged patients.

Research Question

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2015) note that the impacts of back pain range from negatively affecting the individual’s quality of life and huge financial burden. Notably, people with back pain report high levels of poor health and psychological stress. Considering the amount spent on managing the conditions, $ 560 million and $ 464 million are spent on admitted patients and out-of-hospital. Effective prevention and management of lower back pain entail various approaches. It is therefore imperative to examine their effectiveness with regards to enhancing the patient’s quality of life and reducing hospitalization. The PICOT question in this regard is: For patients above 65 years (P), how does exercise therapy (I) compare to weight reduction (C) in reducing lower back pain (O) over three months (T)?