A practical guide to the systematic application of nominal group technique

Mullen, R. , Kydd, A., Fleming, A. and McMillan, L. (2021) A practical guide to the systematic application of nominal group technique. Nurse Researcher, 29(1), pp. 14-20. (doi: 10.7748/nr.2021.e1777) (PMID:33629547)

Abstract

Background: Nominal group technique (NGT) is a highly structured, commonly used way of exploring areas of interest and developing consensus. However, it is sometimes conflated with focus group methods. Aim: To provide a rationale for selecting NGT as a research method and to examine its systematic application in a doctoral Q-methodology study exploring nursing students’ perspectives of preserving dignity in care. Discussion: An outline of NGT is provided, and it is distinguished from focus group methods. As well as providing a step-by-step guide to using NGT, each step is illustrated with its practical application in the study, and the lessons learned concerning the limitations and strengths of NGT in the context of one study are shared. Conclusion: When applied systematically, NGT enables nurse researchers to collaborate in a meaningful and engaging way with participants and generate tangible outcomes relatively quickly. Implications for practice: This paper offers practical insight into the use of NGT to explore perceptions and develop consensus.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Mullen, Dr Rosemary
• Authors: Mullen, R., Kydd, A., Fleming, A., and McMillan, L.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Nursing and Health Care
• Journal Name: Nurse Researcher
• Publisher: RCN Publishing
• ISSN: 1351-5578
• ISSN (Online): 2047-8992
• Published Online: 25 February 2021
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2021 RCN Publishing Company Limited
• First Published: First published in Nurse Researcher 29(1): 14-20
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy