In nursing research, why is it sometimes necessary to conduct a literature review after data analysis in qualitative studies?

Conducting a literature review after data analysis in qualitative studies is essential because it allows researchers to contextualize their findings within the broader body of existing knowledge. Frequently, researchers begin with a hypothesis or question that may not be fully developed or clearly articulated before they gather data. After analyzing the data, researchers often discover nuances or insights that were not anticipated. The subsequent literature review can help in understanding how these new findings relate to previously established theories, concepts, or studies in the field. It can also uncover areas where further inquiry is needed, thereby enriching the overall research process and contributing to the development of knowledge in the discipline. This iterative process enhances the robustness of qualitative research by aligning new insights with existing literature, which can inform future research directions.