Low response rates that may bias the results are a potential problem. Leave white space for patients to add comments. Emphasize key words with bold type or underlining. The care provider may use either a structured or unstructured means of collecting information. A structured interview will provide information for comparison purposes because all patients are asked the same set of scripted questions.
Unstructured interviews require special skills and training.
In addition, it is important to select an objective interviewer, such as the branch manager or clinical supervisor, to carry out the interviews. Another precaution is to avoid extensive note taking, which can disrupt the flow of conversation. It is best to note only key words during the interview and expand the notes later. Another advantage is the opportunity for the interviewer to observe the client's body language, which can provide information about the emotions related to the subject matter and alert the interviewer when the client has not heard or does not understand the question. A fourth method of collecting data is through a complaint log.