The purpose of this article is to identify the general methodologic and data set-specific challenges that must be overcome when attempting a secondary analysis of qualitative data. Two separate examples of secondary analyses of qualitative data sets are also described, including one unsuccessful beginning.

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Generally parents of HIV-infected children 6 months to 4 years and 5 to 11 years of age generally reported lower mean QoL scores than did parents of uninfected children, although worse psychological functioning was reported for uninfected children. HIV-infected adolescents not receiving antiretroviral treatment had worse health perceptions and symptoms. We found no consistent QoL differences among children receiving different antiretroviral regimens.

The purpose of this study was to explore, using grounded theory, the process experienced by parents who are dealing with the first recurrence of cancer in their child. The sample of 33 guardians (27 mothers, 1 grandmother, and 5 fathers) was drawn from three pediatric oncology settings. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and medical record review. Thirteen parents were interviewed to validate first the evolving and, later, the complete study findings. Four interactive components emerged: regulating shock, situation monitoring, alternating realizations, and eyeing care-limiting decisions. The overall organizing construct induced from these components was labeled "coming to terms." This construct represents the parents' efforts to overcome shock and despair to make wise decisions about treatment while accepting that the outcome if beyond their control, and to help their child have the optimal chance for cure while preparing for the child's possible death.

A subset of data from a longitudinal grounded theory study was analyzed to describe the experience families have during the period immediately surrounding the time of diagnosis of cancer in a child. A convenience sample consisted of 40 members of seven families with a child who was recently diagnosed with cancer with a favorable prognosis. All family members 5 years of age and older participated. Data collection consisted of three tape-recorded, semistructured interviews with family members in the home. It was found that the "waiting and not knowing" of this period was most distressing for family members. This period is further described and implications for nursing practice are discussed. Factors limiting generalizability of the findings include the small sample size, single site, and the short length of time families were followed.