Introduction
Evidence based practice typically comes from research conducted by nurses and other health care professionals to answer questions or solve problems in a disciplined manner (Taylor, Kermode & Roberts, 2006). Nursing research has experienced remarkable growth, providing nurses with an increasingly sound evidence base from which to practice. (Polit, Beck & Hungler, 1999). Therefore, the authenticity of research findings needs to be assessed by careful critical analysis, which broadens the understanding and determines evidence for use in practice as well as providing a background for conducting further study.
According to Polit et al. (1999), the aim of critically appraising an article is ‘an attempt to determine its strengths and limitations.’ Therefore, the research critique should reflect an objective and balanced consideration of the study’s validity and significance (Polit et al. 1999). This assignment will critically appraise a piece of nursing research on horizontal violence and reflect on its impact on nursing practice today. In order to effectively critique the research article on horizontal violence, the guidelines produced by Ryan, Coughlan & Cronin (2007) will assist the writer in producing an organised piece of work.
What is horizontal violence?
In the research article “You have no credibility: Nursing students’ experiences of horizontal violence” Curtis, Bowen and Reid (2006) define horizontal violence as bullying and aggression within a group (p. 157). This is further supported by Duffy (1995) who describes horizontal violence as hostile and aggressive behaviour by an individual or group members towards another individual or members of a group, or a larger group.
Duffy (1995) states that horizontal violence, bullying and self esteem are major issues which influence nursing students socially, psychologically and physically. McKenna, Smith, Poole and Coverdale (2003) found that horizontal violence is often seen as...