Maximising the Impact of Qualitative Research in Feasibility Studies for Randomised Controlled Trials: Guidance for Researchers

Overview

Journal Pilot Feasibility Stud

Publisher Biomed Central

Date 2016 Dec 15

PMID 27965810

Citations 200

Authors

Alicia OCathain

Pat Hoddinott

Simon Lewin

Kate J Thomas

Bridget Young

Joy Adamson

Yvonne Jfm Jansen

Nicola Mills

Graham Moore

Jenny L Donovan

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Feasibility studies are increasingly undertaken in preparation for randomised controlled trials in order to explore uncertainties and enable trialists to optimise the intervention or the conduct of the trial. Qualitative research can be used to examine and address key uncertainties prior to a full trial. We present guidance that researchers, research funders and reviewers may wish to consider when assessing or undertaking qualitative research within feasibility studies for randomised controlled trials. The guidance consists of 16 items within five domains: research questions, data collection, analysis, teamwork and reporting. Appropriate and well conducted qualitative research can make an important contribution to feasibility studies for randomised controlled trials. This guidance may help researchers to consider the full range of contributions that qualitative research can make in relation to their particular trial. The guidance may also help researchers and others to reflect on the utility of such qualitative research in practice, so that trial teams can decide when and how best to use these approaches in future studies.

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