PILOT TEST
A pilot test was done among our sub-group members to find out the barriers or limitations that we might face during the actual data collection. A few days before collecting our actual data, our sub-group met up for a quick pilot test.
1300hrs - 1500hrs. Friday, 14th January 2011
Blk H Level 6, outside tutorial room.
Blk H Level 6, outside tutorial room.
Variable 1: Pulse Rate
Instrument used: Analog and digital watch
How variable was measured: We appointed one person to take the measurement, 2 members to time the process (while taking the pulse rate) and one person to record the data. Client was asked to rest for about 15 minutes before pulse were taken.
Findings: After rotating roles, we evaluated that using analog watch was a better and preferred choice. Reason being different people has different reaction time; hence slight error may occur when we stop the timing. (E.g. timing may stop at 01'02'15 or 01'00'03) Also, we have decided to standardize to take the RADIAL pulse from respondent’s LEFT hand.
Variable 2: Respiration Rate
Instrument used: Analog and digital watch
How variable was measured: Similar to Variable 1, we appointed one person to take the measurement, 2 members to time the process (while taking the respiration rate) and one person to record the data. However this time, to prevent client from controlling own breathing, we have decided to continue placing our finger as though we were still checking for pulse, but discretely looking at the rise and fall of respondent’s chest/abdomen.
Findings: The same with Variable 1, analog watch is preferred to prevent the slight error that may occur.
After the dry run, we have considered the following factors when we want to collect the actual data:
- Type of watch to use
- Analog Watch
- Environment while taking the variable
- Quiet environment
- Which pulse to take from
- Left, Radial pulse
- How we take respondent’s respiration
- Discretely, fingers still on wrist
- Number of times to take the pulse and respiration rate
- 3 times, and then the average will be taken
- Total time taken to complete the data collection per respondent
- Depends on co-operation from individuals