Abstract
Background: Coding for gerunds is useful in developing theory in grounded theory. However, it can be confusing for the novice researcher to recognise these words, which consider actions more abstractly.
Aim: To explain how to identify, analyse and code gerunds, using the example of a constructivist grounded theory study investigating the design of operating rooms.
Discussion: Coding for gerunds helped to illustrate participants' actions and sequences in the example study and added depth to the researcher's understanding of certain topics.
Conclusion: Coding gerunds can improve the insights obtained in grounded theory studies.
Implications for practice: This article may encourage nurse researchers to focus on actions to add depth to their qualitative analyses.