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important that the chosen sampling technique does not allow for any additional
comparisons or correlations within this groups demographics, for example age or
years or experience.
Aim of study
The aim of this study is to use qualitative methods to explore the experiences of
hospital social workers in discharge planning in an acute hospital within the
South Eastern Trust in Northern Ireland. This will be done by evaluating social
workers' perceptions of the impact of an early intervention pilot on working
practices and patient outcomes.
The review will aim to add to evidence-based practice within the South Eastern
Trust, highlighting any gaps in current research, and where appropriate make
recommendations for areas of further research.
Objectives
Develop an early social work screening tool with a Multidisciplinary team
that considers factors associated with complex delays.
Implement use of the screening tool over a 6-8 week period.
Recruit a 12-15 hospital social workers who have been involved in the
early intervention pilot.
Undertake semi structured interviews to gather their perceptions of the
process and its outcomes.
Carry out a thematic analysis to establish key findings.
Provide a report that presents the above findings in the context of the
broader literature.
Analysis
The study will utilise the most suitable tools and strategies to identify the key
themes. This will initially include the use of recording equipment and notes taken
by the researcher for each interview. The recording of the interviews will be
audio only, and although will enable additional observations when analysing the
data, the notes from participant interviews will aim to focus on non-verbal
cues.The study will also apply the use of software where appropriate. The