The use of grounded theory in studies of nurses and midwives’ coping processes: a systematic literature search

Abstract

Background: Researchers are increasingly using grounded theory methodologies to study the professional experience of nurses and midwives.

Aim: To review common grounded theory characteristics and research design quality as described in grounded theory studies of coping strategies used by nurses and midwives.

Methods: A systematic database search for 2005–2015 identified and assessed grounded theory characteristics from 16 studies. Study quality was assessed using a modified Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool.

Findings: Grounded theory was considered a methodology or a set of methods, able to be used within different nursing and midwifery contexts. Specific research requirements determined the common grounded theory characteristics used in different studies. Most researchers did not clarify their epistemological and theoretical perspectives.

Conclusion: To improve research design and trustworthiness of grounded theory studies in nursing and midwifery, researchers need to state their theoretical stance and clearly articulate their use of grounded theory methodology and characteristics in research reporting.

Keywords:

• grounded theory
• qualitative research
• research design
• nurses
• midwives
• coping
• strategies

Acknowledgements

KC, KT and DM conceived of the study and participated in the study design. KC took the lead role in database searching, reviewing the literature, data extraction and analysis, quality assessment of publications and drafted the paper. All authors edited and revised the draft paper and approved the final manuscript.

ORCID

Karen Cheer http://orcid.org/0000-0002-6761-7924