Background Purposive sampling has a long developmental history and there are as many views that it is simple and straightforward as there are about its complexity. The reason for purposive sampling is the better matching of the sample to the aims and objectives of the research, thus improving the rigour of the study and trustworthiness of the data and results. Four aspects to this concept have previously been described: credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability. Aims The aim of this paper is to outline the nature and intent of purposive sampling, presenting three different case studies as examples of its application in different contexts. Results Presenting individual case studies has highlighted how purposive sampling can be integrated into varying contexts dependent on study design. The sampling strategies clearly situate each study in terms of trustworthiness for data collection and analysis. The selected approach to purposive sampling used in each case aligns to the research methodology, aims and objectives, thus addressing each of the aspects of rigour. Conclusions Making explicit the approach used for participant sampling provides improved methodological rigour as judged by the four aspects of trustworthiness. The cases presented provide a guide for novice researchers of how rigour may be addressed in qualitative research.

provide continuous medical services to its members in routine and crises. Ongoing operation is dependent on the availability of manpower, infrastructure, medical equipment, information technology, and computerized systems. Advanced planning is required to ensure sustainability of services, even during significant disasters. Methods: An operational continuity plan was established, basing the sustainability efforts on international standards. Through adaptation of a process of Business Impact Analysis on the health care system, core vulnerabilities within the HMO were identified, priorities, and criticality of each service were defined as follows: HIGH: Recovery Time Objective (RTO) immediately or up to 24 hours; MEDIUM: RTO within a week; LOW: RTO within four weeks. The plan encompasses all critical elements and services, including computerized system , manpower, infrastructure, and vital equipment. Results: The operational continuity plan was evaluated and approved by the senior Executive Board of the HMO and has been adopted as a perennial work plan. A designated organizational structure was developed as responsible for the implementation and management of the recovery plan during a crisis. Once a year, training and exercise of the recovery plan is conducted , cross-cutting all critical services including: primary care, nursing, pharmacy, laboratory, radiology, home care for vulnerable populations, mental, and emergency dental health services. The aim is to achieve participation of at least 25% of the pre-defined population in the annual training program. Conclusion: Implementing preparedness for various disasters ensures recovery within the designated objectives, which were defined in the operational continuity plan. A significant budget needs to be allocated in order to facilitate an effective preparedness.

Therapeutic interpersonal relationships are the primary component of all health care interactions that facilitate the development of positive clinician–patient experiences. Therapeutic interpersonal relationships have the capacity to transform and enrich the patients’ experiences. Consequently, with an increasing necessity to focus on patient-centered care, it is imperative for health care professionals to therapeutically engage with patients to improve health-related outcomes. Studies were identified through an electronic search, using the PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and PsycINFO databases of peer-reviewed research, limited to the English language with search terms developed to reflect therapeutic interpersonal relationships between health care professionals and patients in the acute care setting. This study found that therapeutic listening, responding to patient emotions and unmet needs, and patient centeredness were key characteristics of strategies for improving therapeutic interpersonal relationships.

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