Qualitative study on perceptions and acceptability of prehabilitation
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Qualitative study on perceptions and acceptability of prehabilitation programmes in older adults undergoing liver resection.
IRAS ID
348183
Contact name
Dileep N Lobo
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Nottingham
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
NA, NA
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 10 months, 1 days
Research summary
The study investigates perceptions and health behavioral changes related to prehabilitation programmes among older adults undergoing liver resection, with a focus on acceptability and adherence. It utilizes a single-center qualitative design involving semi-structured interviews to obtain in-depth insights.
Recruitment will occur at Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH), targeting up to 30 older adults (≥65 years) who have undergone liver or pancreas resection within the past year and are capable of providing informed consent. Participants will be purposively selected to ensure representation of individuals with and without prior exposure to prehabilitation programmes, enabling comparative analysis.
Each participant will engage in a single interview session lasting 30–45 minutes, conducted three months post-surgery either in person or via Microsoft Teams. The interviews will explore participants' perceptions, health behavior changes, and factors affecting the acceptability and adherence to prehabilitation programs. Data collection will continue until thematic saturation is achieved, with all transcripts analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and themes.
This methodology aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of factors influencing the implementation and effectiveness of prehabilitation programmes, ultimately contributing to enhanced programme design and improved patient outcomes.
Potential risks for participants include psychological distress from reflecting on surgical experiences, health status, and recovery challenges, as well as the inconvenience of participating, particularly for those with existing health concerns. To minimise these risks, interviews will be conducted empathetically, providing participants with the option to pause or withdraw at any point to ensure their comfort.
This study will provide valuable insights into how prehabilitation programmes can be optimised to better meet the needs of older adults, particularly those with frailty, thereby improving adherence, patient satisfaction, and clinical outcomes.
REC name
East Midlands - Nottingham 2 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/EM/0068
Date of REC Opinion
24 Apr 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion