Interpreting Risk and Impact Measures in Nursing Research: Implications for Evidence-based Practice
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17533/udea.iee.v44n1e14Keywords:
nursing research, data interpretation, statistical, measures of association, measures of association, exposure, risk or outcome, nursing, practical, evidence-based practiceAbstract
Objective. To analyze the conceptual foundations, calculation, and interpretation of key risk and impact measures used in nursing research, emphasizing their relevance for evidence-based clinical practice.
Content synthesis. This article reviews measures of risk or association, including relative risk, odds ratio, and hazard ratio, as well as absolute impact measures, such as risk difference, absolute and relative risk reduction, absolute risk increase, and numbers needed to treat and harm. Using examples from recent primary studies conducted in clinically relevant nursing contexts, the manuscript illustrates step-by-step calculations and interpretations, highlighting the complementary roles of relative and absolute measures in clinical decision-making.
Conclusion. An integrated understanding of risk and impact measures is essential for critical appraisal of nursing research and to assess the real clinical relevance of interventions. The combined use of these measures supports more informed, safe, and context-sensitive nursing care decisions, reinforcing evidence-based nursing practice.
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