Barbara Jack

An exploratory study of the experiences of children and young people with an...

Being held still and not being informed about why a procedure was being carried out are some of the upsetting experiences children with a learning disability decribed to Greg Cigan and colleagues in this groundbreaking study. This article is part of a series of extended abstracts of research undertaken by nurses in practice

Consulting with children, parents and a teacher to shape a qualitative study

Background Patient and public involvement is an emerging element of contemporary research and reflects an acknowledgement of the expertise of people who have personal knowledge or experience of a research topic. Aim To discuss the value of consultation in contributing to the ethical and methodological choices underpinning a qualitative study. Discussion The study discussed explored the perceptions and experiences of children aged four to 12 with long-term conditions of being held still by adults during clinical procedures in acute care. Consultation took place in three stages and involved engagement with a children’s advisory group and members of the public, including parents and a teacher. Conclusion Engagement shaped the focus, influenced the design and underpinned the ethical basis of the study. In addition, consultation identified that the focus of the research was misunderstood by potential participants and their parents. Implications for practice Engaging in robust consultation is a valuable process which can inform research design in unexpected ways. Engagement with children ensures that their perspectives are identified and included and shape the study.

The final hurdle: preparation for the PhD viva examination

The viva examination is the culmination of the PhD process. However, it is important to prepare carefully for this final and important hurdle. In this paper, Barbara Jack looks at the different stages of the viva examination, which include undertaking a careful and systematic preparation. This preparation involves gaining a comprehensive awareness of the university procedure for the viva, researching examiners, and considering the value of having a mock viva. The paper explores the actual viva and makes suggestions to deal effectively with questioning from the examiners. Finally, the results of the viva and steps needed to address corrections are discussed.