URL
Stage
Normal Science
Paradigm framing
The paradigm framing is thirst assessment and management in critically ill patients, particularly those in oncology. The dominant paradigm accepts the importance of thirst management and investigates its prevalence, intensity, and related factors in the ICU setting. This study operates within this paradigm by investigating thirst level trajectories using the Critically Ill Patients' Thirst Assessment Scale (CIP-TAS), a recently developed objective assessment tool.
Highlights
This preprint firmly falls under the normal science classification. The study uses established methods (Group-Based Trajectory Modeling) and an accepted paradigm (the importance of thirst management in critical care) to investigate a specific problem (thirst level trajectories in critically ill oncology patients). It seeks to refine existing knowledge within the current paradigm, rather than challenge or replace it. Specifically, the study contributes to normal science by:
1. Using a validated objective thirst assessment tool (CIP-TAS): This aligns with the paradigm's shift towards more objective measures, moving away from reliance on subjective patient reports.
2. Applying GBTM: This established statistical method is employed to identify distinct patterns within the accepted paradigm, further solidifying its application in this area.
3. Investigating specific patient populations (critically ill oncology patients): This focused approach deepens the understanding of thirst management within a specific clinical context, contributing to the refinement of existing knowledge.
4. Identifying associated factors: The study explores relationships between thirst levels and other clinical variables, which contributes to the existing body of knowledge and may refine current management practices.
The preprint's focus on refining existing knowledge within the current paradigm, without challenging the fundamental assumptions of thirst assessment and management in critical care, aligns with Kuhn's characterization of normal science.
1. Using a validated objective thirst assessment tool (CIP-TAS): This aligns with the paradigm's shift towards more objective measures, moving away from reliance on subjective patient reports.
2. Applying GBTM: This established statistical method is employed to identify distinct patterns within the accepted paradigm, further solidifying its application in this area.
3. Investigating specific patient populations (critically ill oncology patients): This focused approach deepens the understanding of thirst management within a specific clinical context, contributing to the refinement of existing knowledge.
4. Identifying associated factors: The study explores relationships between thirst levels and other clinical variables, which contributes to the existing body of knowledge and may refine current management practices.
The preprint's focus on refining existing knowledge within the current paradigm, without challenging the fundamental assumptions of thirst assessment and management in critical care, aligns with Kuhn's characterization of normal science.