Vaikeasti tavoitettavat ja piilossa olevat tutkittavat hoitotieteellisissä tutkimuksissa

The purpose of the article is to examine hard-to-reach and hidden subjects in nursing research from the perspectives of recruitment, data collection methods, research ethics and reporting. The article is based on previous literature on the subject and the experience gained from the researchers’ own research from a research methodological perspective. The aim of the article is to use empirical studies to describe how the specific characteristics of these groups can be considered in the studies.
Hard-to-reach subjects are those who are difficult to identify or locate, or who despite being identified, may be reluctant to participate in research studies. It is impossible to determine the potential number of these hidden subjects.
When recruiting subjects and choosing data collection methods, it is appropriate to strive for versatility, and to build a confidential relationship between the subjects and the researcher to ensure the quality of the research data collected. However, even small amount of data in these contexts is valuable. From the point of view of research ethics, special attention must be paid to the fact that the research of hard-to-reach and hidden subjects is closely linked to sensitive research. Reporting of results does not in itself differ from other scientific publications, especially if the research has been carried out to a high standard in accordance with scientific criteria.
If research is not also targeted at hard-to-reach or hidden populations, their existence may not be identified or acknowledged, and their care will not evolve.