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Qualitative research in clinical epidemiology
Deborah M Gregory1, Christine Y Way
1Eastern Health, Health Sciences Centre, St. John's, Canada.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|January 24, 2009
Summary
Qualitative research, using grounded theory, developed a classification system and theory for end-stage renal disease patients. This led to the Patient Perception of Hemodialysis Scale (PPHS), proving valid and reliable in quantitative studies.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Epidemiology
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Qualitative research offers valuable insights into human behavior for clinical epidemiology.
- Grounded theory is a robust qualitative method for understanding complex phenomena.
- Developing reliable measurement scales is crucial for quantitative health research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the utility of qualitative research, specifically grounded theory, in clinical epidemiology.
- To develop a substantive theory and a psychometrically sound measurement scale for patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis.
- To explore the lived experiences of patients on long-term hemodialysis.
Main Methods:
- Grounded theory methodology was employed to analyze qualitative data from end-stage renal disease patients.
- A multilayered classification system and substantive theory were generated.
- The qualitative database was re-analyzed for scale development, resulting in the Patient Perception of Hemodialysis Scale (PPHS).
Main Results:
- A substantive theory on living with end-stage renal disease and hemodialysis was developed.
- The Patient Perception of Hemodialysis Scale (PPHS) was created from the qualitative data.
- Quantitative analysis confirmed the PPHS as a psychometrically valid and reliable instrument.
Conclusions:
- Qualitative research, particularly grounded theory, is highly effective for understanding patient experiences and developing theoretical frameworks in clinical epidemiology.
- The PPHS is a validated tool that can be used in quantitative studies to measure patient perceptions of hemodialysis.
- The findings support the integration of qualitative and quantitative approaches for comprehensive health research.
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