Exploring informed choice in the context of prenatal testing: findings from a qualitative study.

Purpose: This study explored whether and how a sample of women made informed choices about prenatal testing for foetal anomalies; its aim was to provide insights for future health policy and service provision.

Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 38 mothers in Ottawa, Ontario, all of whom had been offered prenatal tests in at least one pregnancy. Using the Multi-dimensional Measure of Informed Choice as a general guide to analysis, we explored themes relevant to informed choice, including values and knowledge, and interactions with health professionals.

Identification of domains relevant to health-related quality of life in patients undergoing major surgery.

This study examined themes relevant to health-related quality of life as identified by patients undergoing major surgery and by health care providers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 52 patients undergoing major abdominal, cardiac, orthopedic, thoracic, or vascular surgical procedures and 33 health professionals from various disciplines. A total of 58 themes were identified by content analysis.