Secondary analysis of qualitative data is a valid mode of clinical inquiry. However, there is limited information available on its use in nursing. This article describes the use of secondary analysis for a study of family caregivers of relatives with dementia. The advantages, limitations, and application of secondary analysis are outlined; data management, analysis, and rigor are also discussed. The article concludes that this method is cost-effective, decreases respondent burden, and is a useful research method for students. However, the secondary analyst must be aware of the limitations of using secondary analysis of qualitative data.

This study's purpose was to explore family caregivers' experiences while they waited placement of family members with dementia in long-term care and how they coped during this period of waiting and transition. In this exploratory descriptive qualitative study, interviews were conducted with 29 caregivers at entry to the placement wait-list and at 3 to 4-month intervals thereafter. Final interviews, with 15 caregivers, were conducted shortly after admission to long-term care. When "the waiting begins," the themes of crisis as initiator, synchronicity, control, and reciprocity emerged. "After placement" included the themes of deeply bonded relationships, attempting continuity, and sorting out the change. The findings provide new insight into family caregiver experiences during and after placement of a family member with dementia in long-term care. Clinicians must recognize that wherever services are provided, at home before placement or in institutions after placement, family caregivers must be incorporated as full partners in care.

The purpose of this qualitative interpretive study was to explore the experience of bereavement following home-based family caregiving for persons with advanced cancer. The research question addressed by this research was: How do family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer perceive the effects of home-based caregiving on their bereavement? Fifteen caregivers were retrospectively interviewed twice after the death of their family member. Caregivers reported both positive (e.g., feelings of accomplishment, improved family relationships) and negative (e.g., haunting images, feelings of failure) outcomes that they attributed to having cared for their family member. Overall positive outcomes predominated and bereaved family members reported satisfaction with having provided care for their loved one who had died.