When collecting nominal data, what type of research is being conducted by the nurse researcher?

When collecting nominal data, the type of research being conducted is quantitative research. Nominal data refers to categories that do not have a numerical value or order, such as gender, race, or yes/no responses. This kind of data is typically used in quantitative research because it allows for the counting and analysis of frequencies within these categories.

Quantitative research focuses on quantifiable aspects of phenomena, which often involves statistical analysis to draw conclusions from the data collected. By utilizing nominal data, the researcher can tally occurrences, compare categories, and potentially identify patterns or relationships using mathematical techniques.

Qualitative research, on the other hand, would involve data that is typically non-numerical and seeks to understand underlying reasons, thoughts, and motivations, often through interviews or open-ended questions. Interval research is not a recognized category of research in this context, as the common classifications are qualitative and quantitative. Experimental research is a subset of quantitative research that specifically involves manipulating variables to determine causal relationships, but it is outside the general classification of nominal data collection.