Application of the critical incident technique in refining a realist initial programme theory.

ABSTRACT:

Background

As realist methodology is still evolving, there is a paucity of guidance on how to conduct theory driven interviews. Realist researchers can therefore struggle to collect interview data that can make a meaningful contribution to refining their initial programme theory. Collecting data to inform realist Inital Programme Theories (IPTs) in healthcare contexts is further compounded due to the healthcare workers' busy work schedules. In this case study of team interventions in acute hospital contexts, we explore the benefits of using the Critical Incident Technique (CIT) in order to build and refine an initial programme theory. We contend that use of the CIT helps to draw on more specific experiences of "Key Informants" and therefore elicits richer and more relevant data for

SUBMITTER: Cunningham U 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7249649 | biostudies-literature | 2020 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature