A Ricoeur-Inspired Approach to Interpret Participant Observations and Interviews

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Qualitative Research Methodology
• Philosophy of Science

Background:

• Understanding patient experiences is essential for developing effective nursing protocols.
• Qualitative research provides deep insights into patient perspectives and the meaning they ascribe to healthcare.
• Philosophical frameworks, such as Paul Ricoeur's, can inform qualitative analysis and interpretation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and discuss a specific qualitative approach for obtaining in-depth knowledge of patients' lived experiences.
• To explore the application of Paul Ricoeur's philosophical ideas to the interpretation of patient narratives.
• To highlight the significance of this approach for advancing nursing science.

Main Methods:

• Employed a qualitative research design.
• Utilized a combination of participant observation and in-depth interviews to collect data.
• Analyzed and interpreted field notes and transcribed interviews, drawing inspiration from Ricoeur's theories on narrative and interpretation.

Main Results:

• The described approach facilitates the generation of rich, detailed data on patients' lived experiences.
• Interpretation inspired by Ricoeur's philosophy enhances the understanding of patients' ways of being-in-the-world.
• The methodology proved effective in uncovering nuanced aspects of the patient healthcare journey.

Conclusions:

• The combined method of participant observation and interviews, interpreted through Ricoeur's lens, offers a robust approach to understanding patient experiences.
• This method significantly contributes to the development of in-depth knowledge crucial for nursing science.
• The findings underscore the value of philosophical engagement in qualitative research for healthcare.