title: Enhancing a health-related quality-of-life model for Laotian migrant workers in Thailand.
abstract: We undertook this action research study to enhance the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of Laotian migrant workers, and to conceptualize a practical model for workers for use in similar situations. Seventy Laotian migrant workers, 3 researchers, and 18 stakeholders took part in the study. Several data collection methods were utilized, including in-depth interviews, focus groups, participant observations, and field notes. Content analysis was employed to analyze qualitative data. Findings suggest that because of their participation in the study, the workers improved certain aspects of their HRQOL through participation, consciousness raising, and empowerment, which enabled them to become more self-reliant, confident, and competent, and have greater strength to overcome their difficulties. The Enhancing Laotian Workers' HRQOL Model was conceived as a practical model that could be used by community health nurses working with migrant workers in various contexts.
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Nursing, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand. kessa_ni@kku.ac.th
authors.forename: Kessarawan
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Nilvarangkul
authors.forename: Terence V
authors.initials: TV
authors.lastname: McCann
authors.forename: Somporn
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Rungreangkulkij
authors.forename: Jaranya
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Wongprom
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D054242:Emigrants and Immigrants / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006302:Health Services Research; D054624:Health Status Disparities; D006801:Humans; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D007812:Laos / Q000208:ethnology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D016272:Occupational Health; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013637:Tape Recording; D013785:Thailand; D055815:Young Adult