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Aim: To explain the factors affecting glycemic control (measured by HbA1c) following the Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (DAFNE) program. Background: DAFNE is a structured education program designed to assist persons with type 1 diabetes mellitus achieve optimal glycemic control. However, not all participants reach this goal. Few studies comprehensively explain why this is the case. Research Design: A concurrent mixed methods design. Data were collected from participants (n = 34) at three time points post DAFNE in five participating sites. Each data set was analyzed separately and then integrated. Results: Motivation and support differed for participants who were out of control and those in control. Conclusion: Setting targets/goals and motivations are key in helping participants attain optimal HbA1c.

Background: Poor insight is associated with negative attitudes to involuntary admission and care in qualitative studies. Aims: The current paper aims to examine and compare retrospective qualitative perceptions of service-users in relation to their involuntary admission with their levels of clinical insight, using a mixed methods approach. Methods: Forty two participants were assessed 3 months after the revocation of their involuntary admission. Each provided qualitative data relating to their perceptions of the coercive care process, which was analysed using content analysis, along with a quantitative measurement of insight, the Schedule for the Assessment of Insight-Expanded (SAI-E). Employing a mixed methods design and incorporating NVivo matrix coding queries, the datasets were merged to enable qualitative themes to be identified against the quantitative data. Results: Differences were observed between those with high and low insight in terms of their understanding of the need for treatment, their levels of arousal at the time of admission and how they perceived the compassion of health professionals. Certain negative perceptions of care appeared more universal and were common across those with high and low insight. Conclusion: Some negative perceptions of coercive practices appear linked to inherent elements of psychotic illness such as unawareness of illness. Individuals with higher levels of insight tended to perceive their involuntary admission and receiving a diagnosis as beneficial. Negative views that persist amongst service users with high insight levels can highlight areas for successful service improvement, including increased emphasis on non-pharmacotherapy based supports during the coercive care process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Aim To provide an explanation of the research methodologies and strategies available. Background There are numerous research methodologies and strategies. The literature is ambiguous in relation to research terminology [...]

Aim In this paper, the choice of classic grounded theory will be discussed and justified in the context of the first author's PhD research. Background The methodological discussion takes place within the context of PhD research entitled: Development of a stakeholder-led framework for a structured education programme that will prepare nurses and healthcare assistants to deliver a psychosocial intervention for people with dementia. There is a lack of research and limited understanding of the effect of psychosocial interventions on people with dementia. The first author thought classic grounded theory a suitable research methodology to investigate as it is held to be ideal for areas of research where there is little understanding of the social processes at work. Data sources The literature relating to the practical application of classic grounded theory is illustrated using examples relating to four key grounded theory components: * Theory development: using constant comparison and memoing. * Methodological rigour. * Emergence of a core category. * Inclusion of self and engagement with participants. Discussion Following discussion of the choice and application of classic grounded theory, this paper explores the need for researchers to visit and understand the various grounded theory options. Conclusion This paper argues that researchers new to grounded theory must be familiar with and understand the various options. The researchers will then be able to apply the methodologies they choose consistently and critically. Doing so will allow them to develop theory rigorously and they will ultimately be able to better defend their final methodological destinations. Keywords PhD methodology, grounded theory, conflicting approaches, dementia care, Introduction THIS PAPER discusses the rationale that led the first author (AH) to adopt classic grounded theory (GT) as his guiding methodology for a higher research degree. This discussion will [...]

Abstract Aim This article aims to provide clear explanations of the research approaches available for nursing research. Background There are numerous research approaches available to the nurse researcher. There is [...]

Abstract Aim The decision to use grounded theory is not an easy one and this article aims to illustrate and explore the methodological complexity and decision-making process. It explores the [...]

Abstract This article examines the many ethical challenges that are specific to qualitative research. These challenges concern the issues of informed consent procedures, the researcher-participant relationship, risk-benefit ratio, confidentiality and [...]

Abstract This paper describes how methodological triangulation was used in two nursing research studies. The literature identified a number of principles in reporting studies that used triangulation, including giving the [...]