A graph is a model that is used to show or project a real life situation (Oystein, 1996, p.2). There are various types of graphs that can be used depending on the type of situation. Types of graphs include bar graphs, pictographs, cosmographs, pie charts, flowcharts, organizational graphs, to list but a few. In the nursing field, the most relevant of the types of graphs is the bar graph, and the pie charts. Graphs are used as an analyzing tool when trying to process information that has been collected in the field (Oystein, 1996, p. 5).
A good instance of a situation in the nursing field that graphs would come in handy is in Evidence-Based Nursing. This is a type of health care that is based on evidence. A lot of research is involved in this type of healthcare. Research is done by studying various patients, their ailments, type of treatment administered to them, and the whole process recuperation.
Data is collected on each of the above and recorded against opinions of experts. Besides use of case studies, random clinical trials can also be used against opinions of expert in the particular area of study. The comparison is made easier by the use of graphs, since they clearly bring out the slightest difference in results when either of the variables is used (Oystein, 1996, p. 43).
At the end of the study, the data collected, or the results should be communicated to all other nurses and anybody else involved in the study. This helps improve on the services that nurses provide, by helping avoid future mistakes or calculate the success chances of using a particular treatment technique or approach.
Personally, a nurse would use graphs to help them have control over their spending habits. This can be done by placing the amount of income earned against the expenditure. The graph obtained shows exactly if one is on the right track or if some changes should be made on ones spending habits (Oystein, 1996, p.146).
References
Oystein Ore. (1996). Graphs and their Uses (New Mathematical Library). Washington, DC: The Mathematical Association of America.
