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Secondary data analysis--a new approach to nursing research.

Secondary data analysis as a method of conducting research is rarely used by nurse researchers. This may be the result of several factors: the inclination by nurse researchers to conduct original research, limited access to clinical data bases, and the lack of attention in nursing literature given to secondary analysis as a valid mode of inquiry. However, when data resources are available, secondary analysis represents a potentially efficient and cost effective method of research for both students and more advanced investigators. When pursued by advanced investigators, secondary analysis can strengthen scientific collegiality among nurse researchers and enlarge the existing knowledge base in given areas. This paper reviews briefly ways to conduct secondary analysis, its advantages and disadvantages, and the types of data bases that are available to nurse researchers.