Perspectives on Conducting Behavioral Intervention With Adolescents Using a Virtual Platform-A Thematic Analysis From...

The COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread adoption of virtual communication platforms. Virtual study visits were implemented in the pilot cluster randomized trial (CRT) stage of Teen Adherence in KidnEy transplant Improving Tracking To Optimize Outcomes (TAKE-IT TOO). The present study aimed to understand study coordinators' perspectives on conducting a behavioral intervention with adolescent kidney transplant recipients using virtual conferencing platforms.

Study coordinator participants (N = 6) completed questionnaires and participated in a semi-structured interview that probed comfort with digital technology, issues encountered, and overall perspectives on conducting virtual study visits. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to identify themes and subthemes.

Participants expressed confidence with technology and ability to handle the complexities of the virtual conferencing. Some expressed that virtual study visits led to a change in work habits and higher workload due to increased technology complexity. Qualitative analyses of participant interviews revealed four themes: adaptability, accessibility, logistics (including subthemes scheduling and fluidity), and communication (including subthemes clarity, engagement, and rapport). Convenience for coordinators and the perceived comfort for adolescents were noted advantages for virtual visits. Technical issues, periodic adolescent distractions, and challenges with instructional teaching through virtual conferencing were identified as potential limitations of virtual study visits.

Overall, virtual study visits were appreciated and endorsed by study coordinators. Researchers should consider the feasibility of completing study-related tasks virtually, including accessibility of visual materials on all type of electronic devices, and ensure adequate training of study personnel when deciding to implement virtual platform in CRTs.