Qualitative research methods: key features and insights gained from use in infection prevention research

摘要: Infection control professionals and hospital epidemiologists are accustomed to using quantitative research. Although studies extremely important in the field of infection prevention, often they cannot help us explain why certain factors affect use practices identify underlying mechanisms through which do so. Qualitative research methods, open-ended techniques, such as interviews, collect data nonstatistical techniques analyze it, provide detailed, diverse insights individuals, useful quotes that bring a realism applied research, information about how different health care settings operate. can illuminate processes statistical correlations, inform development interventions, show interventions work produce observed outcomes. This article describes key features qualitative advantages add existing approaches study control. We address goal nature process, sampling, collection analysis, validity, generalizability findings, presentation findings. Health services researchers increasingly methods practical problems by uncovering interacting influences complex environments. with expertise rigor, contribute prevention efforts.