The researcher may attempt to compensate for the lack of the missing element by using multiple groups or applying multiple measures.7 Nonexperimental designs involve the study of naturally occurring phenomena.7 Nonexperimental evidence includes research that is descriptive (ie, studies that describe observable facts), comparative (ie, studies that compare observable facts), or correlational (ie, studies

that show a relationship). Most nursing research falls into this category.7 Qualitative researchers collect data through interviews, group discussion, field observation, and reflection. The collected data are summarized and analyzed to explore issues, answer questions, and gain in-depth understanding of certain phenomena.7 Nonresearch evidence generally is considered to be a lower level of evidence than research evidence. However, one selleck kinase inhibitor of the most important features of EPB is that multiple sources of evidence can be used.7 When there is no research, or the available evidence is inadequate to address the topic in question, a Dolutegravir supplier variety of nonresearch evidence also can be used to inform practice.7 Nonresearch evidence includes clinical practice guidelines, literature reviews, organizational experience, expert opinion, case reports, community standards, and clinician experience. Clinical practice guidelines or position statements

are recommendations developed by Sodium butyrate experts that are generally evidence-based and reflect the consensus opinion of experts in the field. Clinical

practice guidelines are broad statements intended to guide members of a professional organization.7 Literature review is a term that is used loosely to refer to a summary of published literature on a particular topic. Literature reviews often present a description of both research and nonresearch evidence 7; however, they do not use the same standardized appraisal and critical review of the evidence as in a systematic review. 7 Literature reviews vary in thoroughness and may not summarize all of the available evidence addressing the particular topic in question, 7 so they should be appraised carefully. This type of evidence is generally the result of efforts to improve the quality of care and outcomes within a particular organization; therefore, it may not be possible to generalize this information beyond the organization.7 However, sharing successful quality improvement efforts has the potential to provide useful information to address the topic in question. Financial information, such as cost savings, that is garnered through organizational quality improvement efforts also can be powerful information when considering best practices.7 Expert opinion is a reflection of the opinions of one or more experts based on clinical expertise.