Table 1 Context-Mechanism-Outcome (CMO) hypothesis
Context-Mechanism-Outcome (CMO) hypothesis | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Realist assumption | Focused question | Realist programme theory | Contexts (set of conditions that exist) | Mechanisms (how might these contexts create change) | Outcomes (what changes result from the mechanisms) |
1.Collect information about context, mechanism and outcome to evaluate the programme 2.The programme intends to cause a change | 1.What information will be needed and could be collected about contexts? Mechanisms? Outcomes? 2.What change (outcome) does the trial intend to create Quantitative: Feasibility, adherence, surveys about psychosocial health markers Qualitative: Interviews and focus groups about acceptability, engagement, delivery and feasibility | 1.Identifies intended outcomes 2.Identifies the data necessary to test the programme theory | Situational High burden of the COVID-19 pandemic on the care home system in Scotland Little time and resources for the staff (already happening before COVID-19) | Little time and resources for the staff, understaffing, absence or isolation of staff and participants through restrictions | Complicate readiness for programme delivery and engagement |
Programme 1.Implementation of the danceSing care programme 2.Flexibility from research staff and stakeholders from the danceSing care team | Supporting care home staff, boosting feelings of connection and engagement through group training, meetings and welcoming participants in the ‘danceSing care family’ | 1.Improve psychosocial health markers of residents 2.Improve programme delivery and engagement | |||