title: Some strategies to address the challenges of collecting observational data in a busy clinical environment.
abstract: Studies drawing on observational methods can provide vital data to enhance healthcare. However, collecting observational data in clinical settings is replete with challenges, particularly where multiple data-collecting observers are used. Observers collecting data require shared understanding and training to ensure data quality, and particularly, to confirm accurate and consistent identification, discrimination and recording of data. The aim of this paper is to describe strategies for preparing and supporting multiple researchers tasked with collecting observational data in a busy, and often unpredictable, hospital environment. We hope our insights might assist future researchers undertaking research in similar settings.
authors.forename: Debra
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Jackson
authors.forename: Glenda
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: McDonald
authors.forename: Lauretta
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Luck
authors.forename: Melissa
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Waine
authors.forename: Lesley
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Wilkes
mesh_terms: D035843:Biomedical Research / Q000379:methods*; D015510:Clinical Medicine / Q000458:organization & administration*; D000068598:Data Accuracy; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D064887:Observational Studies as Topic; D012107:Research Design; D012381:Role Playing