A mixed-methods chapter -- 2

I have already spoken with Kate Spieg, and I am simply reiterating our agreement.. Below is a brief summary of what I have done so far in this mixed-methods chapter: The type of mixed-methods research design, that I used, is the ‘Sequential Explanatory’ type - it starts with collecting and analysing quantitative data followed by qualitative data. The initial quantitative phase (Service Evaluation study) provides a broad understanding of what is being conducted in the Medicine for older people (MOP) wards at the hospital regarding hydration care, and the subsequent qualitative phase (Qualitative Staff Interviews) helps explain or further explore our quantitative results. I also used a research strategy called ‘Triangulation’, which involves using multiple perspectives to validate our research findings. It will enhance the credibility and validity of our work by reducing bias, increasing reliability and providing a more comprehensive understanding of the nature of the challenges faced in the MOP wards. Specifically, I did ‘Data Triangulation’, which involves using different data sources to gather information on the same research topic. For my work, I have collected data in 3 different ways (i.e. reviewing and analysing patients’ hydration care assessment documentation (service evaluation study) - then conducting semi-structured interviews with MOP ward staff - then incorporating my own observations/field notes as a dietitian). These 3 approaches led me to capturing multiple perspectives and validating our findings. - Field notes: This is where, as I am a dietitian by background, I observed patients’ hydration status and their interactions with MOP staff during both 2 studies (i.e the Service evaluation and the qualitative study). This also provides insights into how hydration care is actually delivered in the ward. For example, I have already observed how patients are asked about their fluid intake and output, how they are offered fluids and how they are monitored for signs of dehydration. I observed these when conducting all the ‘Service Evaluation’ and the ‘Qualitative interviews’. ---------------------------------- This project needs text optimisation (stitching paragraphs together, editing, updating references in order to ensure they are up-to-date references and working further on the Integration and Triangulation sections as well as all the other sections in the chapter). Although the job is mostly done, it needs to be taken to an advanced, high-quality well-hedged level. I would like you to ensure that the chapter is well-presented and oriented in the direction of mixed-methods research. This would require you to review existing content in full and ensure it is seamlessly blended with the ideas of quantitative and qualitative work as well as my field notes and the overall aims of this chapter. It also requires creating creative artworks and adding them in the chapter. A strong demonstration of rigorous critical thinking skills in mixed-methods research in the field of medicine and healthcare is also required in this chapter in all relevant sections, as well as a well-presentation of the data triangulation part. Figures that illustrate, for example, qualitative findings themes, field notes themes, and the triangulation of data. I would greatly appreciate it too if you could add more illustrations (figures) where relevant.