Qualitative Content Analysis Study Research Articles

Nursing students' experiences of professional competence evaluation by Objective Structured Clinical examination method: a qualitative content analysis study.

Clinical education is a significant part of medical education, and paying attention to clinical evaluation is important. One of the challenges in the teaching-learning process is evaluating students' performance. Learners, as the main stakeholders of the educational system, may have different experiences of evaluation quality. Awareness of these experiences is effective in improving the quality of clinical evaluation. Therefore, this study was conducted to "explore the experiences of nursing students for evaluation of professional competence by using the objective structured clinical examination (OSCE)". This study was conducted with a qualitative descriptive research approach and conventional content analysis method in 2022-2024. The participants included 12 undergraduate nursing students at Maragheh University of Medical Sciences, who were selected by purposeful sampling, and their experiences were collected using semi-structured and in-depth interviews until reaching data saturation. The data analysis of the interviews led to the extraction of 268 primary codes, 7 subcategories, 2 categories, and 1 theme: "Credibility and stability". The category "Exam's accuracy in measuring competence " included 3 sub-categories: "Challenges in objective adaptation ", " Communication and organizational challenges for exam preparation " and " Inadequate simulation of stations and exam environment ", and the category " Exam power for repeatability" included 4 sub-categories: " Characteristics of the students ", " Lack of evaluators' skills and mastery ", " Inefficiency of the evaluation tool " and " Disturbance in executive affairs". OSCE can be used in self-evaluation, creating motivation and strengthening different dimensions of students' learning, as well as discovering weaknesses and strengths for planning by managers and faculties. According to the results of this study, many factors such as management before and during the exam, characteristics of the evaluators, prevailing educational conditions in the faculty, and the method of clinical training are effective in achieving the "reliability and sustainability" required in the OSCE.

Factors influencing proactive health behaviors in pre-frailty older adults: A qualitative study based on theory of planned behavior

Aimsto explore factors that can influence proactive health behaviors in pre-frailty older adults. Designthis is a qualitative content analysis study. Methodsdata collected through interviews with 20 pre-frailty older adults in a geriatric unit at a general hospital in Guangzhou, China. We used deductive content analysis to categorize codes and calculate their frequency based on the theory of planned behavior. Inductive content analysis was used to analyze data that could not be analyzed according to the theory of planned behavior. Resultsthe data were analyzed and grouped into categories by beliefs similarity, counted from the frequencies. The factors of 6 behavioral beliefs, 6 normative beliefs, and 14 control beliefs were issued. Six themes emerged, including positive attitudes toward proactive health behaviors outcomes, lack of proactive health awareness the negative influence of children on proactive health behaviors, lack of knowledge of proactive health behaviors, spouses play an important role in proactive health behaviors, low resistance to unhealthy behavior. Conclusionthis research will support to the construction of a psychometric scale to measure the intentions of proactive health behaviors in pre-frailty older adults. These influencing factors will also help us to develop measures to improve the ability of pre-frailty older adults to be proactive health in the future. Impactthis research validates and extends the theory of planned behavior. The findings of factors influencing proactive health behaviors help us to develop strategies to enhance proactive health in pre-frailty older adults in the future. These findings also provide content for the construction of the psychometrics of proactive health intentions scales. Reporting Methodthis study follows the COREQ reporting norms.

The impact of drought and climate change on economy, environment and human health in southern Iran: A qualitative study

Drought and climate change are one of the most important environmental health challenges of the current century. It has been predicted that the occurrence of drought, its intensity, and its adverse effects on the environment, human health, societies, and economy will increase in the coming decades. This qualitative content analysis study aimed to explore the impact of drought on the lives of people living in the south of Iran. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with farmers, urban and rural officials, and physicians. A total of 25 interviews were conducted. All interviews were recorded and then transcribed. Data were analyzed using MAXQDA version 18. The concepts raised by interviewees regarding the consequences of drought were categorized into four themes, including economic consequences, environmental hazards, health consequences, and adaptation options; and most of these consequences were inter-related. Participants believed that drought has affected the soil, environment, ecosystem, and the quality and quantity of water, and this can lead to extensive effects on humans’ physical, mental, and community wellbeing. Drought can also cause adverse economic effects, which can further intensify its adverse effects. It seems like the adverse effects of drought in Iran are severe and destructive, and this is due to the mismanagement of water and environmental resources and other socio-economic problems. Fundamental changes in the management of water and environmental resources are necessary.

High School Students’ Perceptions of Nursing as a Future Career Choice: A Qualitative Study

Background: Understanding the perceptions of high school students, before entering the field of nursing, can be a basis for future planning in this regard. Accordingly, this study aimed to explain the perceptions of these students about nursing as a future career choice in Iran. Methods: This qualitative content analysis study was conducted in four public high schools in Tehran, Iran. Participants included 28 students recruited using purposive sampling who were administered semi-structured, face-to-face interviews in 2019. The duration of the interviews ranged from 30 to 45 minutes and the interviews were transcribed verbatim. The method proposed by Elo and Kyngäs was used to analyze the data. Initially, semantic similarities and differences were reviewed and the subcategories were identified. After repeated reviews, the related subcategories were placed in one category. Results: Data analysis showed students’ perceptions of nursing as a future career could be classified into three categories and seven subcategories. The main categories included a positive view of the nursing profession (with two subcategories: interest in the profession and being a supporter), barriers to choosing nursing as a future career (with three subcategories: the lack of professional independence, poor financial support, and negative evaluation of nursing), and cultural issues (with two subcategories: stigmatized public image and nursing as a gender-dominated profession). Conclusion: The results of this study showed high school students have positive and negative views towards nursing and the influence of cultural issues on the nursing profession. If those interested in nursing can enter this field, they will act as professionals who provide optimal patient care.

Exploring the challenges to development and institutionalization of E-learning content as perceived by faculty members of medical schools in Iran: A qualitative content analysis study

Electronic learning (E-learning) is a method of acquiring knowledge by using information technology. In this regard, faculty members of medical schools play an important role in the design, development and institutionalization of electronic content education and face many challenges. Hence, the present study was performed to explore the challenges to the development and institutionalization of e-learning content as perceived by faculty members of medical schools in southern Iran. The present study is a descriptive qualitative study. Purposeful sampling was performed. Based on this, 23 individual and in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 23 faculty members of medical schools. Granheim and Lundman's approach was used for data analysis. Three themes and eleven subthemes were extracted based on the qualitative data analysis results. Three main themes included individual challenges, organizational management challenges, and course design challenges. Based on the results of the present study, we should keep in mind that electronic teaching methods and preparation of e-learning content by professors are different from traditional educational methods. Hence, the senior managers of educational system should make necessary arrangements and plans for methodological support, technological and technical support, and all kinds of organizational support and create continuous professional development opportunities for professors to minimize the negative effects caused by the rapid changes of electronics era and educational environments on professors, and consequently on the quality of educational contents and processes.

Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL): A Teaching and Learning Experience in Nursing.

Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) involves international online activities that allow the support of transversal competencies in diverse and multicultural environments without moving from home. This paper presents the learning experiences and satisfaction of undergraduate nursing students at the University of Girona (Spain) from a COIL activity involving clinical simulation in collaboration with the University of Coventry (United Kingdom). Qualitative study of content analysis. Twelve students from each of the two universities participated in the data collection process using reflective diaries. The data analysis highlighted five topics related to the COIL activity involving clinical simulation: (a) initial attitudes towards the COIL activity; (b) main learning through the COIL activity; (c) positive aspects of the COIL activity; (d) weaknesses of the COIL activity and proposals for improvement; and (e) overall evaluation of the COIL activity. The main learning outcomes referred to by students were the relationships between transversal competencies and the skills for life, language skills, cultural skills, and more specific skills related to clinical standards. The students were most satisfied with the teaching activities and specified positive aspects and weaknesses that will add value to future versions of the activities.

Components of safe nursing care in the intensive care units: a qualitative study

BackgroundPatient safety is a global health issue that affects patients worldwide. Providing safe care in the intensive care units (ICUs) is one of the most crucial tasks for nurses. Numerous factors can impact the capacity of nurses to deliver safe care within ICUs. Consequently, this study was undertaken with the aim of identifying the components of safe nursing care in ICUs.MethodsThe current research constitutes a qualitative conventional content analysis study conducted from January 2022 to June 2022. The study participants comprised nurses, intensivists, nurse responsible for patient safety, paramedic, patients, and patients’ family member, totaling 21 individuals selected through purposive sampling. Data collection involved individual, in-depth, and semi-structured interviews. Subsequently, data analysis was performed utilizing the approach outlined by Graneheim and Lundman (Nurse Educ Today 24(2):105–12, 2004), leading to the identification of participants’ perspectives.ResultsThree themes were identified as components of safe nursing care in ICUs. These themes include professional behavior (with categories: Implementation of policies, organizing communication, professional ethics), holistic care (with categories: systematic care, comprehensive care of all systems), and safety-oriented organization (with categories: human resource management and safe environment).ConclusionsThe findings of this study underscore the significance of advocating for safe nursing practices in ICUs by emphasizing professional conduct, holistic care, and safety-focused organizational structures. These results align with existing research, suggesting that by introducing tailored interventions and tactics informed by these elements, a safer environment for nursing care can be established for ICUs patients.

Human rights integration in Ethiopian social work education: a study on curricula and students’ understandings

ABSTRACT Focusing on the integration of human rights into the Ethiopian Bachelor of Social Work programme, this paper presents a study of students’ understanding of human rights by employing a mixed-methods research design. Qualitative content analysis and survey study were utilized to assess the extent of human rights infusion into the undergraduate curriculum and examine students’ understanding of human rights conventions. The qualitative content analysis revealed a non-explicit infusion of human rights content into the social work curriculum. Human rights were indirectly applied and referenced in the human rights themes, e.g. for refugees and migrants, showing a lack of explicit and direct integration of human rights in the curriculum. The survey study also showed that, of the 201 participants, a significant majority (77%) lacked awareness of the human rights documents pertinent to social work. A discernible augmentation in the familiarity with the human rights conventions was observed among students as they progressed through higher levels of study. Hence, the study posits that Ethiopian social work schools should consider revisiting their curricula and give due attention to the human rights infusion into their social work programmes.

Wounded healer nurses: a qualitative content analysis of the positive traits of nurses affected by chronic cardiovascular disease

BackgroundThe wounded healer concept refers to healthcare providers who, in the past, have had similar experiences to those of their clients and now draw on these challenging experiences to assist their clients. This study explored the positive traits of nurses with chronic cardiovascular diseases who transitioned to wounded healers.MethodsA qualitative content analysis study was conducted within hospitals in Tehran, Iran, between November 2023 and March 2024. Sampling was conducted using a purposive sampling method in accordance with the study objectives and inclusion criteria. The data were collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews. Twenty-three participants, comprising 16 females and 7 males, participated in the interviews. Data analysis was conducted by employing a qualitative content analysis approach, including creating codes, subcategories, generic categories, and main categories. MAXQDA v20 software was utilized to facilitate the analysis process.ResultsThe data analysis revealed one main category that aligned with the research question: the positive traits of a wounded healer nurse, consisting of three generic categories: (1) traits related to interpersonal and professional relationships; (2) traits related to the professional dimension; and (3) traits related to the personal dimension. wounded healer nurses demonstrate positive traits that enhance patient care.ConclusionsThe findings of this study have important implications for nursing practice and education. By identifying the positive traits exhibited by nurses as wounded healers affected by chronic cardiovascular diseases, nursing programs can emphasize and strengthen these qualities to convert challenges into opportunities and bridge the theory-practice gap.

Principles and elements of patient-centredness in mental health services: a thematic analysis of a systematic review of reviews

IntroductionMental health disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, are widespread globally and necessitate effective solutions. The patient-centred approach has been identified as a viable and effective method for addressing these challenges....

Strategies for the Development of Physiotherapy in Iran from the Point of View of Physiotherapy Graduates: A Qualitative Study of the Content Analysis Type

Background: Despite the direct access to clients in physiotherapy worldwide, Iran has yet to achieve significant improvements in the educational standards and professional responsibilities of physiotherapists. Currently, Iranian physiotherapists do not have direct access to patients. This study aims to present solutions for the professional development of physiotherapy, based on the perspectives of scholars in this field. Methods: This qualitative content analysis study explored the experiences of 12 physiotherapy scholars from three levels of study (bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate) through structured and semi-in-depth face-to-face interviews. Data analysis was conducted concurrently with data collection using Granheim and Ludman’s content analysis method. Results: The identified potential solutions include continuous review of the curriculum, strengthening clinical education, elevation of the basic level of physiotherapy education to a professional doctorate or master’s degree, post-graduation competency assessment, revision of educational priorities, establishing a strong presence in hospital and community departments, preventing the influence and interference of other disciplines, raising public awareness of the capabilities and potential of the profession, and paying greater attention to professional ethics. Conclusion: In the absence of entry-level general doctor of physiotherapy and direct access to patients, the quality of physiotherapy services will not improve, leading to suboptimal health outcomes for clients and consequent waste of time and financial resources for both patients and insurance providers.

Mothers' Experiences of Children Undergoing Congenital Heart Disease Surgery: A Qualitative Study

Background: Surgery for children with congenital heart disease (CHD) elevates maternal physical and mental stress, potentially impacting the quality of care provided to the child. Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate mothers' experiences surrounding their child's CHD surgery. Methods: In this qualitative content analysis study, we included 20 mothers of children admitted to Tehran Children's Medical Center Hospital for CHD surgery using purposive sampling. Unstructured interviews and field notes were utilized perioperatively for data collection. Analysis was conducted concurrently with data collection employing the Graneheim and Lundman content analysis approach. Rigor was ensured using Lincoln and Guba’s criteria. Results: The findings were categorized into four themes: (1) "The Bitter and Difficult Motherhood Experience" stemming from the shock of the child's abnormality and subsequent challenges in caregiving; (2) mothers engaged in "In Search of Reassurance," striving for accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment quality through information seeking and accessing superior medical services; (3) "Tides in Supportive Networks" reflected varying degrees of support from personnel, peers, and surrounding individuals, ranging from conscientiousness to stressfulness; (4) Mothers attained a state of "Relative Calm After the Storm" by navigating through the surgery ordeal with spirituality and hope despite enduring anxieties. Conclusions: The journey through a child's CHD surgery proved harrowing for mothers due to the initial shock and ongoing caregiving challenges. Care provision should prioritize maternal readiness and empowerment, emphasize professional conduct, reassurance, spiritual care, and steer social support networks towards positive contributions.

Intimate partner violence after childbirth: an explanatory sequential mixed-methods study protocol

BackgroundIntimate partner violence (IPV) is the most common form of violence against women. Postpartum IPV refers to any type of IPV that occurs up to one year after childbirth and has many adverse impacts on mothers and their children. Considering the lack of sufficient information on the prevalence and factors related to IPV after childbirth in Iran, this study aimed to evaluate the frequency and severity of IPV, its different forms, and psychosocial factors related to IPV, as well as to explore how IPV is perceived among mothers one year after childbirth.MethodsAn explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was used to conduct this study in two phases. The first phase is a cross-sectional study that will be performed on postpartum mothers who have a one-year-old child referred to health care centers in the southern region of Tehran, Iran, with the aim of determining the prevalence of IPV and its related factors. The second phase is a qualitative conventional content analysis study with the purpose of exploring women’s experiences and perceptions of IPV and its preventive or protective factors. Purposive sampling will be used. Based on the results of the quantitative phase, mothers who are at the two ends of the IPV spectrum (based on their total Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS-2) scores) will be selected, and in-depth and semistructured interviews will be conducted with them. Finally, the researchers will provide an interpretation of the quantitative results using qualitative data.DiscussionThis is the first study that uses a mixed methods approach to explain different dimensions of IPV, its related factors, and mothers' perceptions of it. By providing a better understanding of this phenomenon, it is hoped that the results of this research will be used by policymakers and officials of educational and cultural systems to plan and provide effective interventions, enact laws, and present educational and cultural programs to prevent IPV after childbirth.Ethical codeIR.TUMS.FNM.REC1400.200.

Demystifying the cultural representations in international high school English textbooks: a social-semiotic approach and teachers’ views

ABSTRACT Albeit cultural content in English textbooks have been much reported, little empirical evidence addresses global or international-distributed English textbooks. To fill this void, the present qualitative content analysis study aims to explore the representation of cultural content in international English textbooks used for Indonesian senior high school students. For another contribution, we also attempt to gain English teachers’ perceptions of cultural content in the textbooks examined through written interviews. Grounded in a social semiotic approach, the findings showcased that the textbooks’ content represents inner-circle countries in the aspect of perspectives, products, persons, and practices. Further, the imbalance in the cultural representation of the outer circle and expanding circle countries indicated that the authors do not sufficiently increase the global cultural awareness of English language learners because other cultural perspectives on varieties of English are not included. The interviews analysis revealed that the cultural contents were short and required improvement.

Clinical nursing competency during epidemics: a qualitative content analysis

BackgroundNurses are on the frontline for managing epidemic diseases. Different aspects of clinical nursing competencies during epidemics are important issues that need investigation.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to determine the required clinical competencies for nurses during epidemics. Understanding these competencies could provide valuable information for health care services and nursing education organizations to prepare nurses for future epidemics.MethodsThe qualitative conventional content analysis study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 12 nurses that were actively engaged in providing patient care during COVID-19 pandemic in Shahid Beheshti hospital in Kashan/Iran, from October 2022 to March 2023. The data analysis process was conducted according to 5 steps suggested by Graneheim and Lundman.ResultsAfter analysis, the 159 competencies were derived from interviews that were categorized to 11 subcategories, and three categories of clinical nursing skills in epidemics, knowledge of epidemics, and soft skills for nurses in epidemics.ConclusionNurses need wide range of competencies to address the professional expectations regarding providing acceptable care during epidemics. Knowing these competencies can help nursing managers to prepare nurses for crisis such as what world experienced during COVID-19 pandemic.

Lived experiences of mothers with newborns lodging at a public hospital in South Africa: A qualitative study

Background & Aim: The challenges of mothers residing at hospital while their ill babies are admitted to a neonatal care unit are understudied and poorly documented. Unfavorable living arrangements and tension between mothers and staff can disrupt their well-being and create feelings of helplessness. This study explored how mothers experienced having to stay at a lodging residence of a public hospital while their newborns were admitted to a neonatal care unit. Methods & Materials: This qualitative content analysis study was conducted through face-to-face, in-depth interviews between March 2021 – April 2021. Data were gathered from 13 mothers who lodged at a public hospital for at least two weeks, were able to speak Sesotho, English, and/or Afrikaans, and were above 18 years of age. Data were analyzed using Tesch's eight steps in the coding process. Results: Data analysis resulted in five categories, each with subcategories. The main categories are "Lodging environment", "Emotional experiences", "Nursing care of babies", "Interaction with staff", and "Participant perspectives". Participants' ages ranged between 23 and 37 years. Three participants had a spouse while the other ten were unmarried and were single parents. Conclusion: The mothers were not optimistic about their lodging experiences, the nursing care of their newborns, and their interaction with healthcare professionals. Hence, they require intervention to alleviate conditions that cause unnecessary stress and anxiety. Health professionals and hospital managers must accommodate the needs of mothers who have no choice but to reside at the hospital when their newborns are admitted for extended periods.

Exploring the consequences of nurses’ involvement in disaster response: findings from a qualitative content analysis study

BackgroundThe presence of nurses during disasters can lead to many consequences. Understanding the nurses’ experiences of these consequences can provide valuable insights. Therefore, this study was conducted to explore the experiences of Iranian nurses regarding the consequences they faced when being present during disasters.MethodsThis qualitative descriptive study employed a content analysis approach to examine the topic at hand. 20 nurses working in the emergency units of Kerman hospitals were selected through purposive sampling. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect the data. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis proposed by Graneheim and Lundman. MAXQDA 10 was used to manage data.ResultsAfter analysis of the interviews, two main categories were identified: overlapping of job frustrations and acquiring experience in difficult conditions. The main category of acquiring experience in difficult conditions comprised the following subcategories: improved quality of care, experience and dedication in fulfilling the role, reduced stress, occupational motivation and enthusiasm, increased self-confidence, and improved social status. On the other hand, the category of overlapping of job frustrations also consisted of the subcategories of physical strength deterioration, psychological and emotional distress, discontinued from supports, feelings of hopelessness, increased exposure to violence and aggression, and occurrence of family problems.ConclusionBeing present during disasters and obtaining the necessary competencies can have positive consequences that serve as turning points in the personal and professional growth of nurses. Additionally, favorable outcomes can help nurses cope with adverse circumstances. Managers can utilize the findings of this study to develop strategies aimed at reducing negative outcomes and enhancing positive ones among nurses during disasters.

Perspectives from patients with chronic lung disease on a telehealth-facilitated integrated palliative care model: a qualitative content analysis study

BackgroundChronic lung disease affects nearly 37 million Americans and often results in significant quality of life impairment and healthcare burden. Despite guidelines calling for palliative care (PC) integration into pulmonary care as a vital part of chronic lung disease management, existing PC models have limited access and lack scalability. Use of telehealth to provide PC offers a potential solution to these barriers. This study explored perceptions of patients with chronic lung disease regarding a telehealth integrated palliative care (TIPC) model, with plans to use findings to inform development of an intervention protocol for future testing.MethodsFor this qualitative study, we conducted semi-structured interviews between June 2021- December 2021 with patients with advanced chronic lung disease. Interviews explored experiences with chronic lung disease, understanding of PC, and perceived acceptability of the proposed model along with anticipated facilitators and barriers of the TIPC model. We analyzed findings with a content analysis approach.ResultsWe completed 20 interviews, with two that included both a patient and caregiver together due to patient preference. Perceptions were primarily related to three categories: burden of chronic lung disease, pre-conceived understanding of PC, and perspective on the proposed TIPC model. Analysis revealed a high level of disease burden related to chronic lung disease and its impact on day-to-day functioning. Although PC was not well understood, the TIPC model using a shared care planning approach via telehealth was seen by most as an acceptable addition to their chronic lung disease care.ConclusionsThese findings emphasize the need for a patient-centered, shared care planning approach in chronic lung disease. The TIPC model may be one option that may be acceptable to individuals with chronic lung disease. Future work includes using findings to refine our TIPC model and conducting pilot testing to assess acceptability and utility of the model.

The Paradox of Choice in Palliative Care Decision-Making in Managed Long-Term Care: A Qualitative Study

Palliative care offers undeniable advantages to elderly patients with multiple chronic illnesses in managed long-term care. However, only approximately 14% of those who require palliative care actually receive it. To investigate factors influencing decision-making regarding palliative care acceptance, and healthcare providers’ communication strategies, which patients or family caregivers perceive during managed long-term care. Qualitative thematic content analysis study. Two data sources from home and community-based health care organization in a metropolitical city in the Northeastern United States were used: (a) retrospectively collected 79 phone call audio recordings between patients and/or family caregivers with healthcare providers when initiate palliative care option, and (b) prospectively collected 10 exploratory qualitative interviews with patients and/or family caregivers for this study purpose. From a total of 89 conversations, 7 themes emerged during palliative care decision-making: (a) capability for self-management; (b) symptom severity; (c) perceptions of chronic disease; (d) satisfaction with current health services; (e) code status; (f) caregiver burden and (g) other reasons, including financial considerations and service affiliations. In addition, from 10 qualitative interviews, 4 key themes in healthcare providers’ communication that optimize palliative care conversations were indicated: (i) trust and relationship dynamics; (ii) positive reinforcement and personal connection; (iii) conversation setting and initiator; and (iv) collaborative approach to care coordination. Enhancing decision-making around palliative care and improving acceptance of palliative care services may be improved through the integration of personalized care plans, empathetic communication, use of symptom-inclusive assessments for timely care, and proactively addressing caregiver burden.

User Experiences of Ball Blankets in Adults with Depression-Related Insomnia: A Qualitative Content Analysis Study

Insomnia is prevalent in patients suffering from depression and may itself exacerbate the disability associated with depression and impede the path to recovery. Although crucial in ensuring meaningful interactions and interventions for patients, research on patients’ experiences of depression-related insomnia and its treatment is limited. The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate how adult patients with depression-related insomnia experience sleeping with a weighted Protac Ball Blanket®, focusing on how the blanket feels and works and contributes to their subjective sleep quality experience. An inductive content analysis approach was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 patients. Four categories were identified: 1) Deep and dynamic touch pressure from the plastic balls induced calmness; 2) Changing sensory impressions from the rolling balls distracted attention from distressing thoughts and emotions; 3) The ball blanket improved the quality and quantity of sleep, which increased daily well-being; 4) Sleeping with the ball blanket was associated with positive as well as negative experiences depending on personal preferences for sensory stimulation. This study explains how the Protac Ball Blanket® as a potential non-pharmacological sleep-intervention improved the sleep of adult patients with depression-related insomnia. The blanket was found meaningful for coping with sleeplessness and with mental and physical unrest.