Posted: April 25th, 2025

Week 5 Response 3-Nursing Theory

Respond to a classmate and discuss if their choices provide a representative sample of the population being studied. (150 words)

Classmates Post:

In research, sampling methods are important for getting data from a particular population, helping to ensure findings can be analyzed with correctness and relevance. Sampling approaches are broken down into two main categories: probability sampling and nonprobability sampling. Each has its unique benefits and disadvantages depending on the study’s goals, resources, and the need for representativeness (McCombes, 2019). Choosing the right method is important for addressing the PICOT question: “In adult patients with chronic lower back pain, how does a structured physical therapy program compared to NSAIDs affect pain management and mobility over six months? 

Probability Sampling: This method gives every individual in the population a known, commonly equal chance of being selected. Examples include: 

• Simple Random Sampling: Every individual has an equal selection opportunity. It decreases bias and is representative if done right, but it can be difficult with huge populations (McCombes, 2019).
• Stratified Sampling: The population is divided into subgroups (strata), and participants are selected randomly from each stratum. This approach is useful for studies that require comparisons across diverse groups (McCombes, 2019).
• Cluster Sampling: The population is divided into clusters, often based on geography or organization, and the whole clusters are selected randomly. It is beneficial for widespread populations but can increase variability within clusters (McCombes, 2019). 

Nonprobability Sampling: This approach does not give all individuals a known or equal chance of selection. Examples include: 

• Convenience Sampling: Selection is based on whether it is available or accessible. While quick and cost-effective, it is subject to bias and limited generalizability (McCombes, 2019).
• Purposive Sampling: Participants are selected based on characteristics or qualities suitable for studies that need specialized knowledge or traits (McCombes, 2019).
• Snowball Sampling: Often used for hard-to-reach populations, existing participants recruit new ones. It is effective for niche groups but can limit diversity (McCombes, 2019). 

Selected Population and Sampling Method 

For this study, the target population is adults with chronic lower back pain, defined as pain persisting for over three months and affecting daily mobility. Given the need to assess both physical therapy and NSAID treatment, stratified sampling is the most appropriate method. By grouping participants based on factors like age range, pain severity, and mobility levels, we can ensure a more representative and diverse sample. This approach will help the study to compare the effectiveness of physical therapy versus NSAIDs across different segments of the chronic pain population, promoting the relevance and applicability of the results. 

Reference 

McCombes, S. (2019). Sampling methods | Types, techniques, & examples. Scribbr. Retrieved from

https://www.scribbr.com/methodology/sampling-methods/Links to an external site.