A systematic review of mixed methods research on human factors and ergonomics in health care

Abstract

This systematic literature review provides information on the use of mixed methods research in human factors and ergonomics (HFE) research in health care. Using the PRISMA methodology, we searched four databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and Engineering Village) for studies that met the following inclusion criteria: (1) field study in health care, (2) mixing of qualitative and quantitative data, (3) HFE issues, and (4) empirical evidence. Using an iterative and collaborative process supported by a structured data collection form, the six authors identified a total of 58 studies that primarily address HFE issues in health information technology (e.g., usability) and in the work of healthcare workers. About two-thirds of the mixed methods studies used the convergent parallel study design where quantitative and qualitative data were collected simultaneously. A variety of methods were used for collecting data, including interview, survey and observation. The most frequent combination involved interview for qualitative data and survey for quantitative data. The use of mixed methods in healthcare HFE research has increased over time. However, increasing attention should be paid to the formal literature on mixed methods research to enhance the depth and breadth of this research.

Technology barriers and strategies in coordinating care for chronically ill patients

“…We calculated the percent of barriers with one or more strategy for each category of barriers. This process of quantifying qualitative data fits the mixed methods approach of sequential exploratory design with mixing in the data analysis stage (Carayon, Kianfar, et al, 2015; Creswell & Plano Clark, 2011). This type of mixed methods approach takes advantage of the rich, deep qualitative data (see quotes in the Results section) with quantification to assess linkages between barriers and strategies.…”

Integrating Postoperative Feedback Into Workflow: Perceived Practices and Barriers

“…Many times, healthcare issues that are well known are poorly solved due to the complexity of the healthcare work place (38). For example, even though many patient safety issues have been identified, little progress had been made to actually solve them (39, 40, 41).…”

The effect of workload on nurses' non‐observance errors in medication administration processes: A cross‐sectional study

“…Nursing workloads are heavy and diverse (Carayon et al, ; Xie & Carayon, ). To prevent errors, the effect of workload on non‐observance error needs to be clarified.…”