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4.9.2.1 Pilot interviews with residents
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Chapter 4 Research Method
The pilot interviews with the residents took place separately in their own rooms in
the residential unit. One male and one female resident participated. The researcher
sat on a chair at eye level with the residents and made sure they were comfortable
before the interview commenced. The researcher asked the residents if they would
like a cup of tea or a glass of water. The interviews were tape recorded and lasted
approximately 20-30 minutes. Supplementary written notes were also taken. The
residents were encouraged to relax and to talk freely. Questions were open and
enabled free responses. On completion of the interview the researcher asked the
resident again if they would like a cup of tea or if they wished to return to the day
room. The researcher thanked them for their participation.
4.9.2.2 Pilot interviews with staff
The pilot interviews with staff took place in the Clinical Nurse Manger’s office. One
nurse and one healthcare assistant participated. The interviews were tape recorded
and lasted approximately 20-30 minutes. Supplementary written notes were also
taken. The questions were open and enabled the participants to talk freely.
Occasionally probes and prompts were required. When the interviews were complete
and the tape turned off, the researcher asked the participants if they had any
comments or advice to add about the interview technique. Most questions elicited the
information that was expected; one question, however, posed difficulties for staff
and was therefore changed to ensure that the information sought was clear. Hence
one question (see Table 4.5 below) in the staff interview guide was re-phrased
following the pilot.
Table 4.5: Post-pilot modification of interview question.
Original Question no.5 Question no. 5 after the pilot
Can you define autonomy for older
people in residential care?
I’m interested in finding out what
autonomy for older people in residential
care means - what do you think it is
about?