Exploring the synergies between focused ethnography and integrated knowledge translation.

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Qualitative Methodologies
• Knowledge Translation

Background:

• Challenges persist in applying health services research findings due to knowledge user exclusion.
• Integrated knowledge translation (IKT) and qualitative methods can improve research usability by involving knowledge users throughout the study.
• Literature on integrating IKT with qualitative methodology is scarce, prompting this methodological exploration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the integration of IKT with focused ethnography.
• To explore synergies and potential discord between IKT and focused ethnography.
• To provide a methodological exemplar for applied health research.

Main Methods:

• Focused ethnography was employed.
• An integrated knowledge translation (IKT) approach was collaboratively implemented.
• A research exemplar involving frail, older adults undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation was used to illustrate the methodology.

Main Results:

• Embedding IKT within focused ethnography heightened focus on context, culture, and values.
• Increased engagement was observed among researchers, participants, and knowledge users.
• A commitment to partnership, reciprocity, and trustworthiness was fostered, enhancing research quality.

Conclusions:

• IKT from study inception ensures research relevance for point-of-care application.
• Integrating IKT with focused ethnography enables real-time uptake of findings and strengthens research teams.
• This integration supports sustained research programs and relationships in health services research, with recommendations for further exploration.