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4.9.2.3 Analysis of the pilot interviews
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Chapter 4 Research Method
The interviews were transcribed verbatim and an analysis of the content and
interview technique was undertaken. Attention was paid to how questions were
asked, the use of probes and prompts, the extent to which participants were
encouraged to share their perspectives, and the balance between researcher questions
and participant responses. The research supervisor also read the transcripts in order
to ensure that the questions were eliciting the required responses. The pilot identified
a number of issues, including the need for some further training on interview
technique. This was focused on techniques for probing participants further and
allowing more pauses and time for the participants to think about their answers. An
analysis of the data revealed that the questions were eliciting the responses needed to
answer the research question and therefore the rest of the questions remained
unchanged.
4.9.3 Interview Sample
Following the pilot interviews and further interview technique training, the
researcher began interviewing in the research unit. The entire residential unit formed
the population for the interview sample. This included all staff (nurses, managers,
healthcare assistants and support staff), residents, and residents’ families.
4.9.4 Staff Interviews
All staff (n=34) of the research unit met the inclusion criteria and were invited to
participate (Table 4.6). Fifty-six per cent participation (n=19) was achieved.
Table 4.6: Staff invited to participate in interviews
Staff of
Research Unit
Invited
for
Interview
Agreed Refused No
Response
Clinical Nurse
Managers
2 1 0 1 50%
Staff Nurses 18 13 1 4 72%
Healthcare
Assistants
11 4 5 2 36%
Support Staff 3 1 0 2 33%
Total 34 19 6 9
Percentage
Participation