Question

Compare and contrast the case based analysis (qualitative) versus a surveillance system (quantitative) approach and how each contributes or detracts from improving patient safety initiatives, reporting and outcomes.

Answer 1

In my opinion a quantitative approach is always better than a qualitative approach for performing analysis since the data is quantifiable which further gives a certain objectivity to the analysis as compared to its counterpart the qualitative analysis.

One only conforms to qualitative analysis when one has no other option but to collect data that is not quantifiable under any circumstances. Even in such cases the definition of the qualitative traits is subjective and there is an easy introduction of bias. Whereas in quantitative analysis the entire dataset is in front of the experimenter and the analysis can be performed objectively without any bias creeping in.

In a sensitive matter such as improving patient safety initiatives, reporting and outcomes one has to make sure the approach used is free from any bias which can guarantee maximum safety for the patients.

However, even quantitative analysis is not without its fair share of flaws. The bias is observed when the method of analysis choice as well as the sample choice falls on the experimenter. It is possible that the sample chosen is not representative of the entire population and furthermore the analysis methodology used negates the actual observations in the hospital.

Actually similar analytical problems are faced in the qualitative analysis as well. Thus, in my opinion it is better to follow a surveillance system approach than the case based analysis which can lead to better results if the analysis is performed without any bias from the experimenter.