Challenges of recruiting emergency department patients to a qualitative study: a thematic analysis of researchers’ experiences

Abstract Background: At times of increasing pressure on emergency departments, and the need for research into different models of service delivery, little is known about how to recruit patients for qualitative research in emergency departments. We report from one study which aimed to collect evidence on patients’ experiences of attending emergency departments with different models of general practitioners, but faced challenges in recruiting patients. This paper aims to identify and reflect on the challenges faced at all stages of patient recruitment, from identifying and inviting eligible patients, consenting them for participation and finally to engaging them in interviews and make recommendations based on our learning. Methods: A thematic analysis was carried out on field-notes taken during research visits and meeting minutes of discussions to review and improve patient recruitment throughout the study. Results: The following factors influenced the success of patient recruitment in the emergency department setting: complicated or time-consuming electronic health record systems for identifying patients; narrow participant eligibility criteria; limited research nurse support; and lack of face-to-face communication between researchers and eligible patients. Conclusions: This paper adds to the evidence for improving patient recruitment in different settings, with a focus on qualitative research in emergency departments. Our findings have implications for future studies attempting to recruit patients in similar settings.

Download Full-text

Challenges of patient recruitment within emergency departments for qualitative research: lessons learnt from the GPs in EDs study

10.21203/rs.2.20245/v1 ◽

2020 ◽

Author(s):

Delyth Price ◽

Michelle Edwards ◽

Andrew Carson-Stevens ◽

Alison Cooper ◽

Freya Davies ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Qualitative Research ◽

Emergency Departments ◽

Patient Recruitment ◽

Eligibility Criteria ◽

Future Studies ◽

Recruitment Methods ◽

Face To Face ◽

Emergency Department Setting ◽

Field Notes ◽

Models Of Service Delivery

Abstract Background: At times of increasing pressure on emergency departments, and the need for research into different models of service delivery, little is known about how to recruit patients for qualitative research in emergency departments. We aimed to collect evidence on patients’ experiences of different models using general practitioners in emergency departments. Challenges were faced at all stages of patient recruitment, from identifying and inviting eligible patients, consenting them for participation, and finally to engaging them in interviews. Methods: By analysing processes, amendments and outcomes of recruitment methods, as well as conducting a thematic analysis of field-notes taken during research visits, this paper aimed to describe the factors which influenced patient recruitment in the GPs in EDs study, and make recommendations based on our learning. Results: We found the following factors influenced the success of patient recruitment in the emergency department setting: complicated or time-consuming electronic health record systems for identifying patients; narrow participant eligibility criteria; limited NHS research nurse support; and lack of face-to-face communication between researchers and eligible patients. Conclusions: This paper adds to the growing evidence for improving patient recruitment in different settings, with a particular focus on qualitative research in emergency departments. Our findings have implications for future studies attempting to recruit patients in similar settings.

Download Full-text

140. Symptoms and Situations Predispose Patients to Use Antibiotics Without Medical Advice

Open Forum Infectious Diseases ◽

10.1093/ofid/ofaa439.450 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 7 (Supplement_1) ◽

pp. S200-S200

Author(s):

Michael Hansen ◽

Barbara Trautner ◽

Roger Zoorob ◽

George Germanos ◽

Osvaldo Alquicira ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Primary Care ◽

Emergency Department ◽

Emergency Departments ◽

Primary Care Clinic ◽

Antibiotic Use ◽

Safety Net ◽

Care Clinic ◽

Primary Care Clinics ◽

Primary Care Patients ◽

Emergency Department Patients

Abstract Background Use of antibiotics without a prescription (non-prescription use) contributes to antimicrobial resistance. Non-prescription use includes obtaining and taking antibiotics without a prescription, taking another person’s antibiotics, or taking one’s own stored antibiotics. We conducted a quantitative survey focusing on the factors that impact patients’ decisions to use non-prescription antibiotics. Methods We surveyed patients visiting public safety net primary care clinics and private emergency departments in a racially/ethnically diverse urban area. Surveys were read aloud to patients in Spanish and English. Survey domains included patients’ perspectives on which syndromes require antibiotic treatment, their perceptions of health care, and their access to antibiotics without a prescription. Results We interviewed 190 patients, 122 from emergency departments (64%), and 68 from primary care clinics (36%). Overall, 44% reported non-prescription antibiotic use within the past 12 months. Non-prescription use was higher among primary care clinic patients (63%) than the emergency department patients (39%, p = 0.002). The majority felt that antibiotics would be needed for bronchitis (78%) while few felt antibiotics would be needed for diarrhea (30%) (Figure 1). The most common situation identified “in which respondents would consider taking antibiotics without contacting a healthcare provider was “got better by taking this antibiotic before” (Figure 2). Primary care patients were more likely to obtain antibiotics without prescription from another country than emergency department patients (27% vs. 13%, P=0.03). Also, primary care patients were more likely to report obstacles to seeking a doctor’s care, such as the inability to take time off from work or transportation difficulties, but these comparisons were not statistically significant. Figure 1. Patients’ agreement that antibiotics would be needed varied by symptom/syndrome. Figure 2. Situations that lead to non-prescription antibiotic use impacted the two clinical populations differently Conclusion Non-prescription antibiotic use is a widespread problem in the two very different healthcare systems we included in this study, although factors underlying this practice differ by patient population. Better understanding of the factors driving non-prescription antibiotic use is essential to designing patient-focused interventions to decrease this unsafe practice. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Download Full-text

Challenges of recruiting emergency department patients to a qualitative study: a thematic analysis of researchers’ experiences

BMC Medical Research Methodology ◽

10.1186/s12874-020-01039-2 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 20 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Delyth Price ◽

Michelle Edwards ◽

Andrew Carson-Stevens ◽

Alison Cooper ◽

Freya Davies ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Emergency Department ◽

Qualitative Study ◽

Thematic Analysis ◽

Emergency Department Patients

Download Full-text

Demographic Variations in HIV Testing History among Emergency Department Patients: Implications for Hiv Screening in US Emergency Departments

Journal of Medical Screening ◽

10.1258/jms.2009.008058 ◽

2009 ◽

Vol 16 (2) ◽

pp. 60-66 ◽

Cited By ~ 12

Author(s):

Roland C Merchant ◽

Bethany M Catanzaro ◽

George R Seage ◽

Kenneth H Mayer ◽

Melissa A Clark ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Emergency Department ◽

Hiv Testing ◽

Emergency Departments ◽

Hiv Screening ◽

Emergency Department Patients

Download Full-text

Perception of elementary school teachers on Laro Ng Lahi in Quirino, Isabela

International Journal of Linguistics Literature and Culture ◽

10.21744/ijllc.v6n3.876 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 6 (3) ◽

Author(s):

Mark-Jhon R. Prestoza ◽

Chrismarie P. Paludipan ◽

Arvinjay E. Abad

Keyword(s):

Qualitative Research ◽

Elementary School ◽

Elementary School Teachers ◽

Generation X ◽

Thematic Analysis ◽

School Teachers ◽

Health Culture ◽

Face To Face ◽

Advanced Technologies ◽

Classroom Integration

The purpose of this study is to determine the Perception of Selected Elementary School Teachers on Laro ng Lahi in Quirino, Isabela. The participants of this study were ten (10) selected Elementary School Teachers, five (5) from Generation X and five (5) from the Millenials. The researchers utilized qualitative research through face to face interviews. The responses were analyzed through descriptive coding using the thematic analysis. Based on the gathered data’s, Laro ng Lahi is still being played by pupils despite their access to advanced technologies and some of these are Tumbang Preso, Sipa, Patintero, Tagu-Taguan, Chinese Garter, Sungka, Luksong Tinik, Luksong Baka, Holen, Tug of War, Agawang Sisiw, Bum-Bum Lata, Agawan ng Panyo, Agawan ng Base, and Siyato. The importance of Laro ng Lahi can be classified according to its benefit in terms of health, culture, social aspiration, and values. Laro ng Lahi can be preserved employing continuous engagement in the respective houses and classroom integration by considering the use of native materials.

Download Full-text

Perceptions of EMS leaders and supervisors on the challenges faced by female paramedics in Riyadh Saudi Arabia: a qualitative study

International Journal of Emergency Services ◽

10.1108/ijes-09-2020-0055 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽

Author(s):

Abdullah Mohammed ALobaid ◽

Cameron Gosling ◽

Lisa McKenna ◽

Brett Williams

Keyword(s):

Qualitative Research ◽

Saudi Arabia ◽

Qualitative Study ◽

Thematic Analysis ◽

Design Methodology ◽

Medical Service ◽

Research Approach ◽

Content Type ◽

Face To Face ◽

Workforce Issues

PurposeSaudi female paramedics face many challenges in the current Saudi emergency medical service (EMS). This study aimed to investigate perceptions of EMS experts, leaders, managers and academics about the challenges faced by Saudi female paramedics in the Saudi Arabian EMS workforce.Design/methodology/approachA descriptive qualitative research approach was used employing semi-structured face-to-face interviews with seven EMS leaders, managers and academics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were analysed using thematic analysis informed by the work of Braun and Clark.FindingsThree themes emerged from the interviews that described EMS experts' perceptions, namely, cultural and family challenges, the value of Saudi female paramedics in the workforce and workforce issues.Originality/valueOverall, the interviews revealed that Saudi females faced several challenges that could affect their job duties and capacity to work in the EMS. Currently, Saudi females face difficulties with family, social and religious responsibilities, such as taking care of children and homes. Workforce issues were also considered problems that affect Saudi female paramedics in the workplace, such as physical fitness and psychological burnout. The EMS leaders, managers and academics emphasised that due to the new Saudi 2030 vision, it is expected and recognised that more females need to be employed in the EMS workforce.

Download Full-text

“Friday Night is their Super Bowl”: A Relational Investigation Regarding Occupational Stress Among American High School Football Officials

Communication & Sport ◽

10.1177/2167479520968932 ◽

2020 ◽

pp. 216747952096893

Author(s):

Brianna L. Avalos

Keyword(s):

High School ◽

Occupational Stress ◽

Thematic Analysis ◽

The United States ◽

Interpretive Research ◽

High School Football ◽

Face To Face ◽

Field Notes ◽

A Current ◽

Friday Night

This interpretive research explores American high school football officials’ perceptions of occupational stress experienced both on and off the field. Within the United States, there is a current shortage of high school football officials. Overall individualistic identification within the association and how members make sense of their position on and off the field contribute to occupational stress. The research focused on one Southern Californian high school football organization officiating for youth, high school, and some college football. Data was collected through both semi-structured face-to-face interviews as well as analysis of field notes from football games and similar settings. This research utilized the theoretical framework of sensemaking as well as thematic analysis as a method in order to better understand and make sense of how members within the organization identify and manage stressful and hostile football-related situations. (Inter)personal relational stress-impacted themes emerged from the data: (1) with coaches, (2) with parents, and (3) with other officials.

Download Full-text

Preferences of Students towards Conducting Qualitative Research in Social Sciences at Higher Education Level

Organization Theory Review ◽

10.32350/otr.0101.06 ◽

2017 ◽

Vol 1 (1) ◽

pp. 56-64

Author(s):

Atif Khalil ◽

Muhammed Saeed ◽

Kanwal Tauheed

Keyword(s):

Social Sciences ◽

Higher Education ◽

Qualitative Research ◽

Thematic Analysis ◽

Sampling Technique ◽

Structured Interview ◽

Education Students ◽

Interview Protocol ◽

Knowledge And Skills ◽

Field Notes

The study aimed to explore the intentions of higher education students towards conducting qualitative research in social sciences. The study included four PhD and six MPhil students from Punjab Univeristy (Institute of Education and Research) and Eduacation University who were selected through purposive sampling technique. A semi-structured interview protocol was constructed which was validated through experts’ opinion. The respondents were asked about their feelings, knowledge, skills, interests and barriers towards qualitative research. A thematic analysis was applied after obtaining the data through audio recording and field notes. The results revealed that most of the PhD scholars did not possess knowledge and skills required to conduct qualitative research. There was no visible difference between the responses of IER (PU) and EU students. But PhD and MPhil Students had different preferences towards conducting qualitative research.

Download Full-text

P021: Interventions to reduce emergency department door-to-ECG times: a systematic review

CJEM ◽

10.1017/cem.2019.212 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 21 (S1) ◽

pp. S70

Author(s):

S. Chhabra ◽

D. Eagles ◽

E. Kwok ◽

J. Perry

Keyword(s):

Emergency Department ◽

Quality Improvement ◽

Emergency Departments ◽

Best Practice ◽

Quality Criteria ◽

Local Context ◽

Post Intervention ◽

Eligibility Criteria ◽

Coronary Syndrome ◽

Data Feedback

Introduction: We wished to identify emergency department interventions that lead to improvement in door-to-ECG times for adults presenting with symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: Two reviewers searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane CENTRAL from inception to April 2018 for studies in adult emergency departments with an identifiable intervention to reduce median door-to-ECG times when compared to the institution's baseline. Quality was assessed using the ‘Quality Improvement Minimum Quality Criteria Set’ (QI-MQCS) critical appraisal tool. The primary outcome was the absolute median reduction in door-to-ECG times as calculated by the difference between the post-intervention time and pre-intervention time. Results: Two reviewers identified 809 unique articles, yielding 11 before-after quality improvement studies that met eligibility criteria (N = 15,622 patients). The majority of studies (10/11) reported bundled interventions and most (10/11) showed statistical improvement in door-to-ECG times. The most common interventions were: having a dedicated ECG machine and technician in triage (5/11); improved triage education (4/11); improved triage disposition (2/11); and data feedback mechanisms (1/11). Conclusion: There are multiple interventions that show promise for reducing emergency department door-to-ECG times. Effective bundled interventions include having a dedicated ECG technician, triage education and better triage disposition. These changes, bundled together, can help intuitions attain best practice guidelines. Emergency departments must first understand their local context before adopting any single or group of interventions.

Download Full-text