Sampling for the Qualitative Component Sample Clauses

Sampling for the Qualitative Component. We purposively sampled participants into the evaluation and collected data until we reached a point of saturation, meaning that no new information emerged from IDIs and FGDs. We created four sampling frames, namely: index clients who accepted PNS, index clients who declined PNS, contacts of index clients who accepted PNS, and health service providers. Before embarking on sampling and data collection, we trained research assistants on qualitative data collection training methods, topic guides to be used in this evaluation, skills for conducting IDIs and FGDs amongst hidden populations and protection of ethical rights of participants. The trained research assistants recruited the sampled participants using telephone calls, with support of health services providers. Participants were enrolled after providing written informed consent. Participants either came to the health facility at an agreed time or met the research assistants at an agreed location. When a sampled participant declined to participate, research assistants replaced them with a new participant. Interviews and FGDs were conducted in the participants’ preferred language and if consented, they were audio recorded during data collection. Table 1: Number of participants enrolled in the qualitative component of the STEPS mid-term evaluation Sites Client In-depth Interviews FGDs with index clients who accepted/ declined PNS Health Service Providers In- depth Interviews Accepted PNS Declined PNS PNS contacts reached and tested Xxxxxx folk 2 1 2 1 Total 15 5 7 6 8