International journal of palliative nursing
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The focus group interview is an increasingly common qualitative research method used by health professionals. General approaches to conducting focus groups have been published. There has, however, been minimal exploration of issues regarding the use of focus groups with palliative care populations and data analysis procedures have been underreported. ⋯ A succinct outline of why, when and how to use focus groups is offered. Key ethical and practical issues are explored as well as considerations for data analysis. This guide offers researchers and clinicians fundamental strategies for the use of focus groups within the palliative care context.
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It has been recognized that education may be one way of improving the provision of palliative care to patients and their families. This article is the culmination of a multi-phase evaluation project that aimed to investigate the effectiveness of palliative care education provided by a hospice education network in the north west of England. Results from a study of 46 students over a three year period indicate that in order for education to be deemed effective, there are certain fundamental requirements. ⋯ This paper describes a model for providing palliative care education, which encompasses these fundamental requirements. It also meets the needs of stakeholder and provides evidence of improvements in clinical practice. In particular, it focuses on the challenges of implementing this model in the current climate of clinical effectiveness, evidence-based practice and value for money.