- Published: November 16, 2021
- Updated: November 16, 2021
- University / College: Purdue University
- Level: Undergraduate
- Language: English
- Downloads: 25
A formula in statistics, its relevance, and application to nursing The scope of nursing, especially research, monitoring and evaluation processes, has established statistical applications as an integral part of nursing. The applications have particularly been essential in nursing research, evidence based practice and administration. This is because statistics provides evidence and an understanding of risks that are involved in nursing processes.
One of the statistical formulas that are applicable to the nursing program is the concept of probability. Probability is defined as the likelihood of obtaining success in an undertaking. Probability can either be experimental of theoretical. The formula for calculating probability is the number of successful outcomes divided by the total number of outcomes in an event. While experimental probability is based on observations from past events or an experiment, theoretical probability relies on expectations due to nature of events (Brockopp and Tolsma, 2003).
Probability= number of successful outcomes/total outcomes
Relevance and application of probability theory to nursing
The relevance of the formula for finding probability is realized in nursing research, evidence based practice and administrative decision making such as determination of best practices. In determining probability of success of a nursing practice, probability helps in making decision on whether a practice should be adopted or not. The probability concept also helps in selection the best out of available practices by offering likelihood of success in each practice. Probability is therefore relevant to the nursing profession because it forms a basis for decision making in selection of nursing practices. It can be applied in any decision making process that is evidence based. This is because it relies on experiments or proved occurrences to offer predictions (Brockopp and Tolsma, 2003).
Probability, as a statistical concept together with its formula, is therefore relevant and applicable to nursing.
Reference
Brockopp, D. and Tolsma, M. (2003). Fundamentals of Nursing Research. Sudbury, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning
