BSN 366 HESI RN Exit | Nightingale
1. A nurse researcher is developing a PICO question for a study regarding fall prevention.
Which component of the PICO format represents the ‘O’?
A. The specific patient population at risk for falls.
B. The reduction in the rate of patient falls over six months.
C. The standard protocol currently used by the hospital.
D. The implementation of a new bed alarm system.
Answer: B
Rationale: In the PICO format, ‘O’ stands for outcome, which is the measurable result the
researcher expects to see. In this scenario, the reduction in fall rates serves as the primary
outcome. Identifying a clear outcome is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of the
intervention.
2. Which level of evidence is considered the highest in the hierarchy of evidence-based
practice?
A. Case-control studies
B. Expert opinion and consensus reports
C. Systematic reviews or meta-analyses
,D. Single descriptive or qualitative studies
Answer: C
Rationale: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses represent Level I evidence because they
synthesize results from multiple high-quality studies. This level of evidence provides the
most reliable basis for clinical decision-making. By contrast, expert opinions are located at
the bottom of the hierarchy due to potential bias.
3. A researcher is studying the effect of a new medication on blood pressure. In this study,
what is the ‘blood pressure’ considered?
A. Independent variable
B. Confounding variable
C. Extraneous variable
D. Dependent variable
Answer: D
Rationale: The dependent variable is the outcome or effect that the researcher is
measuring in response to changes in the independent variable. In this study, blood
pressure is expected to change based on the administration of the medication. The
medication itself acts as the independent variable being manipulated.
4. Which ethical principle from the Belmont Report ensures that researchers do no harm and
maximize possible benefits?
A. Justice
, B. Fidelity
C. Respect for persons
D. Beneficence
Answer: D
Rationale: Beneficence is the ethical requirement to act in ways that benefit participants
while minimizing potential risks. It requires a careful assessment of the risk-benefit ratio
before a study can proceed. This principle is fundamental to protecting the welfare of
human subjects in research.
5. A nurse is conducting a qualitative study to understand the lived experiences of patients
with chronic pain. Which research design is most appropriate?
A. Quasi-experimental
B. Phenomenology
C. Correlational
D. Randomized Controlled Trial
Answer: B
Rationale: Phenomenology is a qualitative research approach used to describe and
understand the essence of a human experience. It focuses on the perspectives of the
individuals who have lived through a specific phenomenon. This design is ideal for
exploring subjective emotions and perceptions.