title: Qualitative research methods in renal medicine: an introduction.
abstract: Qualitative methodologies are becoming increasingly widely used in health research. However, within some specialties, including renal medicine, qualitative approaches remain under-represented in the high-impact factor journals. Qualitative research can be undertaken: (i) as a stand-alone research method, addressing specific research questions; (ii) as part of a mixed methods approach alongside quantitative approaches or (iii) embedded in clinical trials, or during the development of complex interventions. The aim of this paper is to introduce qualitative research, including the rationale for choosing qualitative approaches, and guidance for ensuring quality when undertaking and reporting qualitative research. In addition, we introduce types of qualitative data (observation, interviews and focus groups) as well as some of the most commonly encountered methodological approaches (case studies, ethnography, phenomenology, grounded theory, thematic analysis, framework analysis and content analysis).
authors.affiliation: Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, Cicely Saunders Institute, London SE5 9PJ, UK.
authors.forename: Katherine
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Bristowe
authors.affiliation: Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, Cicely Saunders Institute, London SE5 9PJ, UK.
authors.forename: Lucy
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Selman
authors.affiliation: Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, Cicely Saunders Institute, London SE5 9PJ, UK.
authors.forename: Fliss E M
authors.initials: FE
authors.lastname: Murtagh
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D009398:Nephrology; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012107:Research Design
keywords: focus groups; interviews; methodology; observation; qualitative