Key elements for understanding and developing qualitative research for health professionals

Qualitative research plays an essential role in health sciences, aiming to achieve a deep understanding of phenomena, experiences, perceptions, and behaviors in their natural contexts. In this article, we outline essential aspects to consider when conducting qualitative research, starting from formulating the research question to analyzing and reporting the obtained data. We present the main qualitative design methods and sampling techniques, emphasizing the importance of reaching data saturation and the data production methods. This article offers a roadmap for conducting qualitative research in health care, contributing to a more humanized and evidence-based clinical practice.