Research design
The study utilised a two-phase sequential explanatory mixed method design.21 Mixed methods design is an approach to inquiry that either combines or associates both quantitative and qualitative strategies so that the overall strength of the study is greater than its individual parts.22 Bed-bathing is an under-reported phenomena of intensive care nursing practice. This study therefore used a two-phase sequential explanatory mixed method design to firstly describe the phenomena of bed-bathing in ICU and secondly to expand this understanding though a series of group interviews with RNs of different levels of experience. In this study phase one was a quantitative descriptive survey to explore the frequency, timing, duration and cleansing agents used in the patient bed-bath. Phase two used semi-structured focus group interviews to better understand RNs’ approach to the bed-bath and factors that can impact on the patient bed-bath in the ICU. Focus groups (FG) were chosen to solicit a rich, thick and in-depth perspectives, views and opinions on the phenomena.23 The study sought to determine a broad and deep understanding of RNs’ bed-bathing practice and the FG method is acknowledged as effective for eliciting such an understanding as the emphasis is on listening to participants’ opinion and insights. As participants hear and interact with each other different data is yielded than if participants were interviewed individually.23