An overview of integrated pilot work as a reflexive tool to enhance qualitative research.

Background: Researchers often use pilot work (PW) to address potential problems that may affect the progress of their main study. However, the methodology of PW is not well documented for novice nurse researchers. This can be challenging for those who need to make decisions based on a range of opinions.

Aim: To provide an overview of using 'integrated pilot work' (IPW) as a reflexive tool to enhance qualitative nursing research.

Discussion: This article discusses the role of PW in qualitative research, its added value and the debate surrounding it. It also introduces IPW - a new type of PW intended to be an integral part of a qualitative study's design and conduct, rather than preliminary work conducted before the study. The author describes how she used IPW in her doctoral study and presents four significant contributions to the study that highlight its effectiveness: it challenged the author's sampling and recruitment strategies; delimited the object she was studying; helped her to engage in conceptual reflection; and led her to understand better the research process in a doctoral study.

Conclusion: IPW is an innovative approach that can make a valuable contribution to the rigour of qualitative research.

Implications for practice: Qualitative researchers need to consider whether to use IPW, when they are planning and conducting a study.