how do you write a patient case study

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Article Contents

• Format of the patient case report
• Appendix A—Criteria for publishable case reports
• Appendix B—Guidelines for writing patient case report manuscripts
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How to write a patient case report

• Article contents
• Figures & tables
• Supplementary Data

Henry Cohen, How to write a patient case report, American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy , Volume 63, Issue 19, 1 October 2006, Pages 1888–1892, https://doi.org/10.2146/ajhp060182

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Purpose. Guidelines for writing patient case reports, with a focus on medication-related reports, are provided.

Summary. The format of a patient case report encompasses the following five sections: an abstract, an introduction and objective that contain a literature review, a description of the case report, a discussion that includes a detailed explanation of the literature review, a summary of the case, and a conclusion. The abstract of a patient case report should succinctly include the four sections of the main text of the report. The introduction section should provide the subject, purpose, and merit of the case report. It must explain why the case report is novel or merits review, and it should include a comprehensive literature review that corroborates the author’s claims. The case presentation section should describe the case in chronological order and in enough detail for the reader to establish his or her own conclusions about the case’s validity. The discussion section is the most important section of the case report. It ought to evaluate the patient case for accuracy, validity, and uniqueness; compare and contrast the case report with the published literature; derive new knowledge; summarize the essential features of the report; and draw recommendations. The conclusion section should be brief and provide a conclusion with evidence-based recommendations and applicability to practice.

Conclusion. Patient case reports are valuable resources of new and unusual information that may lead to vital research.

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How to Write a Case Study in Research? (with Examples) 

A case study is a powerful tool in research and education, offering deep insights into complex phenomena through the lens of a single subject or group. Case studies zoom in to the details of a specific situation, examining context, history, and behavior to reveal certain patterns and highlight practical applications of theories.   

A case study in research can be used when:  

• atypical or abnormal behavior or development is observed,  
• an unexplained outcome to treatment is found, or  
• an emerging disease or condition occurs.  

Thus, case studies enable researchers and practitioners to analyze specific instances, identify trends, and obtain learnings that can inform broader decision-making and problem-solving. In this post, you will learn all about case studies, including how to conduct a case study , limitations and benefits of a case study , and case study methods .  

What is a Case Study ?   

Case study definition : A case study is an in-depth or intensive study of a person, group, or event. Case studies involve deep analyses of an individual or group to identify patterns and are used across fields such as psychology and medicine to draw broad conclusions. They are descriptive studies based on qualitative data such as observations, interviews, questionnaires, clinical notes.  

Here are some historically significant case study examples:  

The curious case of Phineas Gage: This is arguably the most cited case study in psychology, which sheds light on how different areas of the brain affect personality and cognition. While working as a construction foreman on a railroad, Phineas Gage was involved in an accident in which a rod impaled his brain. Gage survived the physical trauma, but his personality and his ability to learn new skills were altered. This case report was crucial to research on brain function, memory, and personality.  

Anna O and the talking cure : Anna O (pseudonym) was a German woman who was one of the first patients to undergo psychoanalysis. Her case inspired many of the theories of Freud and other prominent psychologists of the time to mitigate the symptoms of depression through “talk therapy.” This case study is still cited as a reason psychologists believe that psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can be helpful to many patients.  

When to Do a Case Study ?  

The case study design may be chosen by a researcher in the following situations:  

Need for deep understanding: When you require detailed insights about a specific situation, and you want to understand complex relationships and processes.  

Resource constraints: When you have limited time and finances available for research and/or limited access to large sample sizes.  

Research context: Certain real-world phenomena need to be studied in their natural context, especially when you cannot control variables.  

Accordingly, the types of research questions best suited for a case study are exploratory (e.g., when investigating a new or poorly understood phenomenon, emerging conditions, adverse reactions to treatments, new methods of treatment) or involve unique situations (e.g., rare or exceptional cases, atypical behavior, breakthrough events). See Table 1 for developing a case study from a research question.  

The case study design might be for a single case study, such as for unique cases or when studying a representative or typical case, or multiple case studies (a case series, comparative analysis, or to identify patterns across different contexts). Note that a case study is not recommended if you require statistical generalization or broad population-level insights.  

How Long Should a Case Study Be?  

Case studies are structured very differently from research articles (see “ How to write a case study in Research ” below and the case study template in Figure 1). However, as a general guideline, note that case studies might range from 500 to 1,500 words. The word count would depend on factors such as the target journal’s specifications, case type, and study discipline. Case reports also have a limit on the number of references to be cited. Remember, you must always check the target journal for word and reference limits before submission.  

How to Write a Case Study in Research  

Let’s delve into how to conduct a case study and write one. First, you need to understand how to create a case study .

Before writing

• On the basis of your research problem and research question , select the case that you want to study. 
• Perform an in-depth literature review to develop a relevant theoretical framework, wherein you aim to demonstrate, expand upon, or challenge an existing theory in your field. 
• Collect the data, which will typically be qualitative in nature. Data collection, therefore, will be collected by direct observations , interviews , or analysis of primary and secondary sources of information. Be as thorough as you can at this step.
• Analyze the case, highlighting key facts and problems, identify key problems and their causes and impacts, and explore potential solutions.

Drafting and writing your case study

The structure of the case report may vary—some follow the format of scientific papers, while others adopt a narrative style for a deeper exploration.  

• State the key problem and present a concise thesis under an “Introduction” or “Background” section. Provide background, facts, and evidence of research.
• Describe the specific case, group, or event.
• 3. Provide specific solutions, suggest strategies for implementing the solution and, if needed, additional
• Discuss the case, including the strengths and limitations of the study. Summarize the outcome of your analysis and highlight specific strategies for implementing the proposed solution. 

When describing and analyzing a case, be sure to include contextual details, link findings to existing literature and theory, and discuss broader implications. For medical case reports, follow the CARE guidelines (EQUATOR) to ensure completeness and transparency. Please also refer to the CARE Checklist of information to include when writing a case report. Finally, check the target journal requirements for word count and formatting guidelines. See Figure 1 for a case study template .  

Figure 1. Case study template

Table 1. From research question to case study : Some fictional examples  

Real case study examples (published):  

• Baker et al. (2024) Enhanced family-based treatment for an adolescent with binge-eating disorder: A case report. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice . 31(2), 272–282.  
• da Silva et al. (2024) Impacts of oil palm monocultures on freshwater ecosystems in the Amazon: a case study of dragonflies and damselflies (Insecta: Odonata). Aquatic Science 87, 1.   
• Sakamoto et al. (2024) Online gaming reduces psychological distress in a patient with schizophrenia: A case report. PCN Reports. 3(3), e70015.  

What Are the Benefits of a Case Study ?  

On the topic of the case study , a quote by Ivy Mckenzie comes to mind: “The physician is concerned [unlike the naturalist]…with a single organism, the human subject, striving to preserve its identity in adverse circumstances .”   

A physician’s meticulous documentation of an unusual or rare condition might not only help the patient but also revolutionize current understanding of the disorder and lead to a revision of treatment protocols. In fact, clinicians and psychologists are often encouraged to publish more case studies documenting the methods they use.  

Let’s look at some more benefits of a case study :   

• They can be published quickly.  
• They are suitable under situations of time and budget crunches.  
• They are appropriate to study phenomena in their natural context  
• They allow detailed investigation into situations that would otherwise be impractical to perform using another study design.  
• They are sometimes used in therapy to guide the best course of treatment.   

What Are the Limitations of a Case Study ?  

Case studies provide critical information and galvanize further research; however, there are some caveats. The following are the limitations of a case study :  

• A case study is not definitive proof of a theory and cannot demonstrate cause and effect.  
• Case studies with insufficient or incorrect information or based on a flawed premise can harm future research.  
• Ethical issues may arise if the reported patients have not provided consent for publication of their case or are not treated with dignity and respect.  
• If a patient declines to provide consent, the case report cannot be written or published.  
• A case study cannot necessarily be generalized to the larger population.  
• A case study might be impossible or difficult to replicate.  
• Case reports can lead to bias.  

Key Takeaways  

• A case study in research is an in-depth or intensive study of a person, group, or event using qualitative data. It is used to examine complex phenomena through detailed analysis of specific instances. Case studies are particularly valuable in psychology, medicine, and other fields for drawing broader conclusions  
• Case study methods involve data collection through direct observations, interviews, and analyses of primary and secondary sources.  
• Case reports are typically 500–1,500 words long. You may develop single case studies (for unique cases) or multiple case studies (case series, for comparative analysis). Where applicable, be sure to follow specific guidelines (e.g., CARE guidelines for medical cases).  
• A case study design is best used when deep understanding is needed, time and resources are limited, and the natural context must be preserved. It is suited to studying exploratory research questions, unique situations, emerging conditions, and atypical behavior.  
• Writing case studies involves the following steps:  
• Pre-writing phase:

   – Select appropriate case based on research problem  

  – Conduct literature review  

   – Collect thorough qualitative data  

   – Analyze case to identify key problems  

• Writing phase:

  – State key problem and thesis in introduction  

   – Describe specific case/event  

   – Provide solutions and implementation strategies  

  – Discuss strengths and limitations  

   – Link findings to existing literature  

• The advantages of case studies are that they permit quick writing and publication, are cost-effective, are suitable for natural context study, and are extremely valuable for rare or unusual cases. The limitations of case studies, however, are that they cannot prove cause and effect, may not be generalizable, are difficult to replicate, are prone to bias, and require patient consent in medical cases.  

Frequently Asked Questions  

What is a case study in research, why are case studies important in research, what are the key components of a case study, what is the difference between case studies and case series.

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How to Write and Format Evidence-Based Nursing Case Studies: A 2025 Guide

Case studies play a crucial role in nursing education and practice, offering in-depth insights into patient care and outcomes. They allow nursing students and professionals to explore real-world scenarios, develop critical thinking skills, and apply theoretical knowledge in clinical settings. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to write evidence-based nursing case studies, detailing various types, benefits, limitations, and a step-by-step format for creating impactful nursing case studies.

How to Write and Format Evidence-Based Nursing Case Studies

Overview of a Case Study in Nursing

A nursing case study is a detailed examination of an individual patient or a group of patients, focusing on their clinical presentation, nursing interventions, and outcomes. It helps to educate and inform by providing a real-world context for nursing practice and contributing to the development of care. Nursing case studies explore various aspects of patient care, including the nursing process, nursing diagnoses, care plans , and treatment plans.

Nursing Case Study Format

• Title Page: The title page should clearly state the title of the case study, the author(s), and their affiliation. This page sets the stage for the reader, providing essential information about the study.
• Abstract: The abstract is a concise summary of the entire case study. It should briefly describe the patient’s case, interventions, outcomes, and the significance of the study. An effective abstract allows readers to quickly grasp the main points of the nursing case study.
• Introduction: The introduction provides background information and sets the context for the case study. It should include a statement of the problem or clinical issue, explaining why this case is significant and worthy of study. This section may also touch on the patient’s medical history and the reason they seek medical attention.
• Patient Profile: The patient profile section includes demographics such as age, gender, and relevant medical history. This information helps contextualize the patient’s condition and care needs. It may include details about past medical history, history of hypertension, or other relevant patient conditions.
• Assessment Data: This section presents subjective data (e.g., patient’s complaints) and objective data (e.g., vital signs, physical examination findings). Diagnostic tests and their results should also be included, providing a comprehensive view of the patient’s condition. The nursing assessment process and findings from the physical examination are crucial components of this section.
• Nursing Diagnoses: Identify and prioritize the nursing problems based on the assessment data. Each diagnosis should be clearly stated and justified with evidence from the patient’s case. This section demonstrates the nurse’s ability to diagnose and prioritize patient needs.
• Interventions: Describe the nursing interventions implemented to address the identified problems. Each intervention should include a rationale, explaining why it was chosen and how it was expected to benefit the patient. This section may include details about medication administration, pain management strategies, or other specific nursing interventions.
• Outcomes Evaluate the patient’s response to the nursing interventions. Discuss whether the interventions were successful and what changes occurred in the patient’s condition. This section should demonstrate the impact of nursing care on patient outcomes.
• Discussion Analyze the findings, drawing connections between the interventions and outcomes. Discuss the implications for nursing practice , highlighting lessons learned and potential areas for improvement. This section should demonstrate critical thinking skills and the application of evidence-based practice.
• Conclusion Summarize the key points of the case study, reinforcing the main findings and recommendations. This section should leave the reader with a clear understanding of the case’s significance and its contribution to nursing knowledge.
• References List all sources and literature cited in the case study. Proper citation ensures the credibility and reliability of the information presented. Cite relevant nursing case studies, research papers, and evidence-based practice guidelines.

Understanding The Different Types Of Case Studies In Nursing Assessments

Descriptive case studies.

Descriptive case studies focus on providing detailed descriptions of specific cases without attempting to explain the underlying mechanisms or causes. They aim to illustrate particular phenomena, patient presentations, or responses to treatments, offering a snapshot of clinical practice .

Examples in Nursing Practice:

• Chronicling the presentation and management of a patient with a rare autoimmune disorder.
• Documenting the unique response of a patient to a specific chemotherapy regimen.

Exploratory Case Studies

Exploratory case studies are preliminary investigations that aim to identify patterns, hypotheses, or research questions for further study. They are useful when little is known about a phenomenon, and there is a need to gather initial data to guide future research.

Examples in Nursing Research:

• Investigating the initial outcomes of a newly implemented telehealth program for managing chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes .
• Exploring the effects of a novel mindfulness-based intervention on nursing staff well-being.

Explanatory Case Studies

Explanatory case studies seek to explain the causative factors and mechanisms behind observed phenomena. They delve into the “how” and “why” aspects, providing detailed insights into the processes and outcomes of specific interventions.

Examples in Nursing Interventions:

• Analyzing why a particular wound care protocol led to faster healing in diabetic patients.
• Explaining the success of a patient education program in improving adherence to hypertension medication.

Intrinsic vs. Instrumental Case Studies

Intrinsic Case Studies: Focus on a specific case due to its unique characteristics or intrinsic interest. The primary aim is to understand that particular case in-depth.

Instrumental Case Studies: Use a particular case to gain broader insights into an issue or phenomenon. The case is a tool to understand something more general.

Examples in Clinical Settings:

• Intrinsic: An in-depth look at a patient with a rare genetic disorder to understand the disease’s unique manifestations.
• Instrumental: Using a patient case to study the common challenges and best practices in managing post-operative pain.

Multiple-Case Studies

Multiple-case studies involve examining several cases to understand differences and similarities. This method enhances the robustness of findings and can improve the generalizability of results by comparing and contrasting multiple instances.

Examples and Benefits in Nursing:

• Comparing the outcomes of infection control practices across different hospital units.
• Studying the implementation of a new electronic health record system in various clinics to identify best practices and common obstacles.

Benefits and Limitations of Case Studies in Nursing Care

• In-Depth Analysis of Patient Care and Outcomes: Case studies provide a comprehensive examination of individual patient cases, capturing detailed information about patient care and clinical outcomes that may not be evident in larger studies.
• Contribution to Evidence-Based Practice: Documenting real-world examples and patient responses helps build a body of evidence that can inform clinical practice and guide future research .
• Development of Critical Thinking and Clinical Reasoning: Engaging with case studies challenges nurses to think critically, analyze complex situations, and make informed decisions, thereby enhancing their clinical reasoning skills.

Limitations

• Potential for Bias: The subjective nature of case studies can introduce researcher or clinician bias, affecting the objectivity and reliability of findings.
• Limited Generalizability: Case studies focus on specific instances, making it difficult to generalize findings to larger populations or different settings.
• Ethical Considerations: Ensuring patient confidentiality and obtaining informed consent are critical but can be challenging aspects of conducting case studies, especially when dealing with sensitive patient information.

How to Write a Case Study Paper for Nursing

• Choosing a Case Criteria for Selecting a Case: Select a case that is relevant, unique, and offers valuable insights into clinical practice. The case should have clear and well-documented patient information, with notable outcomes that can contribute to nursing knowledge.
• Ethical Considerations: Obtain informed consent from the patient or their legal representative. Ensure patient confidentiality by de-identifying personal information.
• Gathering Data Methods for Collecting and Organizing Patient Information: Collect data from patient records, clinical observations, and interviews. Organize the data systematically, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Include information on vital signs, medication administration, and the patient’s past medical history.

Writing the Case Study Step-by-Step Guide

• Start with the Title Page: Include the title, author(s), and affiliation.
• Write the Abstract: Summarize the key points of the case study.
• Develop the Introduction: Provide background information and state the problem.
• Detail the Patient Profile: Include demographics and medical history.
• Present the Assessment Data: Include subjective and objective data, and diagnostic results.
• Identify Nursing Diagnoses: List and prioritize nursing problems .
• Describe Interventions: Detail nursing interventions and their rationale.
• Evaluate Outcomes: Assess the patient’s response to interventions.
• Write the Discussion: Analyze findings and implications.
• Conclude the Study: Summarize key points and recommendations.
• List References: Cite all sources and literature.
• Integrating Evidence and Literature: Support your case study with current research and clinical guidelines. Integrating evidence enhances the study’s credibility and relevance.
• Editing and Revising Techniques for Refining and Improving the Case Study: Review the case study for clarity, coherence, and consistency. Check for grammatical errors and ensure all sections are complete and well-organized. Seek feedback from peers or mentors.
• Finalizing the Paper Checklist for Completeness and Accuracy:
• Ensure all sections are included and properly formatted.
• Verify the accuracy of data and references.
• Confirm adherence to ethical guidelines and nursing ethics .

Tips and Techniques for an Effective Nursing Case Study

• Clarity and Precision Importance of Clear and Concise Writing: Write clearly and concisely to ensure the reader understands the case study. Avoid jargon and use straightforward language as you describe the history.
• Use of Evidence Integrating Research and Clinical Guidelines: Support your interventions and outcomes with evidence from research and clinical guidelines. This adds credibility and strengthens your case study.
• Patient Privacy Maintaining Confidentiality and Ethical Standards: Respect patient privacy by de-identifying information. Ensure all ethical standards are met throughout the study.
• Critical Analysis Incorporating Critical Thinking and Clinical Judgment: Use critical thinking to analyze the case, identify problems, and justify interventions. Demonstrate clinical judgment in evaluating outcomes and making recommendations.
• Visual Aids Utilizing Charts, Graphs, and Images to Enhance Understanding: Incorporate visual aids to illustrate key points and enhance understanding. Use charts, graphs, and images where appropriate.

Case Study Topics for Nursing Students

Pediatric nursing.

Case Study Ideas Involving Child Health and Pediatrics:

• Management of a child with asthma exacerbation.
• Case study on the care of a premature infant in the NICU.

Mental Health Nursing

Case Studies on Psychiatric Conditions and Interventions:

• Treatment and management of a patient with bipolar disorder .
• Exploring the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in patients with anxiety disorders.

Geriatric Nursing

Topics Related to Elderly Care and Chronic Illnesses:

• Managing the care of a patient with Alzheimer’s disease.
• A case study on fall prevention strategies in elderly patients.

Community Health Nursing

Case Studies Focused on Public Health and Community Interventions:

• Implementing a vaccination program in a rural community.
• Addressing health disparities in underserved urban populations.

Specialty Nursing Fields

Topics in Oncology, Cardiology, ICU, etc.:

• A case study on the management of chemotherapy side effects in oncology patients .
• Cardiac rehabilitation and follow-up care for post-myocardial infarction patients.

Case studies are essential tools in nursing education and practice, providing in-depth insights into patient care and clinical decision-making. By following a structured approach and integrating evidence-based practice, nurses can create impactful case studies that enhance learning and contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge. These studies help nursing students and professionals develop critical thinking skills, improve their understanding of the disease process, and learn to provide holistic care. Whether focusing on hypertension management, pain management, or diabetes care, nursing case studies offer valuable opportunities to explore real-world clinical scenarios and improve patient outcomes. If you need assistance with writing case studies, consider seeking our academic writing services for expert guidance and support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the ideal length for a nursing case study? A typical nursing case study should be between 1,500 to 3,000 words, depending on the complexity of the case and the requirements of your institution. Always check with your instructor or publication guidelines for specific length requirements.
• How do I choose a patient for my case study? Select a patient whose case is unique, interesting, or challenging, and offers valuable insights into nursing practice. Ensure you have access to comprehensive medical records and can obtain informed consent from the patient or their legal representative.
• Can I use real patient names in my case study? No, you should never use real patient names or identifying information in your case study. Always use pseudonyms and remove or alter any details that could potentially identify the patient to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards.
• How many references should I include in my nursing case study? The number of references can vary, but aim for at least 5-10 high-quality, recent sources to support your case study. Include a mix of textbooks, peer-reviewed journal articles, and evidence-based practice guidelines relevant to your case.
• Should I include the patient’s lab results and diagnostic images in my case study? Including relevant lab results and diagnostic images can greatly enhance your case study by providing concrete evidence of the patient’s condition. However, ensure all personal identifiers are removed from these materials and only include information that is directly relevant to the case.

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