Paper
Thursday, July 22, 2004
Qualitative Research as a Tool for Enhancing Interpretation of Quantitative Results
Linda Rose, PhD, RN, Cheryl Dennison, PhD, RN, and Miyong T. Kim, RN, PhD. School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
Problem: The defining and refining of appropriate health interventions is a complex endeavor which requires continuous evaluation. Process evaluation focuses on outcome variables as well as mediating factors such as characteristics of the interveners, timing of the intervention and measurement. Process evaluation findings are often applied to modification of the intervention or the system of delivery. Purpose: This presentation will discuss ways in which qualitative methods are an effective component of a process evaluation. Approach: We will illustrate how a qualitative process evaluation was conducted in an ongoing two-year randomized clinical trial to test the effectiveness of a comprehensive high blood pressure (HBP) program for 309 hypertensive young black males. Thematic analysis revealed that these men, regardless of adherence level, appreciate and value health related assistance when it is provided in a nonjudgmental manner within the context of their daily lives. We will describe how the qualitative findings were used to develop formative intervention strategies. The intervention strategy includes clinic and community based interventions, which delivered culturally appropriate and sensitive health care and lifestyle modification programs for HBP control. Implications: Inclusion of a qualitative process evaluation in community-based intervention studies enhances intervention strategies through identification of the cultural context of care.
Back to Enhancing Methodological Rigor in Intervention Research
Back to 15th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
July 22-24, 2004