Using meta ethnography to synthesise qualitative research: a worked example.
OBJECTIVE
To demonstrate the benefits of applying meta ethnography to the synthesis of qualitative research, by means of a worked example.


METHODS
Four papers about lay meanings of medicines were arbitrarily chosen. Noblit and Hare's seven-step process for conducting a meta ethnography was employed: getting started; deciding what is relevant to the initial interest; reading the studies; determining how the studies are related; translating the studies into one another; synthesising translations; and expressing the synthesis.


RESULTS
Six key concepts were identified: adherence/compliance; self-regulation; aversion; alternative coping strategies; sanctions; and selective disclosure. Four second-order interpretations (derived from the chosen papers) were identified, on the basis of which four third-order interpretations (based on the key concepts and second-order interpretations) were constructed. These were all linked together in a line of argument that accounts for patients' medicine-taking behaviour and communication with health professionals in different settings. Third-order interpretations were developed which were not only consistent with the original results but also extended beyond them.


CONCLUSIONS
It is possible to use meta ethnography to synthesise the results of qualitative research. The worked example has produced middle-range theories in the form of hypotheses that could be tested by other researchers.
Britten
Nicky
N
Department of General Practice and Primary Care, King's College London, 5 Lambeth Walk, London SE11 6SP, UK.
Campbell
Rona
R
Pope
Catherine
C
Donovan
Jenny
J
Morgan
Myfanwy
M
Pill
Roisin
R
D000884:Anthropology, Cultural; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D006801:Humans; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D010349:Patient Compliance; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012646:Self Administration; D014481:United States