NURS 354: ADVANCED NURSING
RESEARCH AND EVIDENCE-BASED
PRACTICE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
1. A researcher is studying the effects of a new bedside rounding protocol on patient
satisfaction. To control for potential confounding variables like nurse experience, which
statistical method is most appropriate?
A. Simple Linear Regression
B. Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA)
C. Independent Samples t-test
D. Chi-square test of independence
Answer: B
Conceptual Explanation: ANCOVA is used to compare means while controlling for the
effect of one or more continuous variables (covariates) that might influence the dependent
variable.
2. In a randomized controlled trial, the researcher fails to reject the null hypothesis when a
true difference actually exists in the population. This is known as:
A. Type II error
,B. Type I error
C. Selection bias
D. Internal validity threat
Answer: A
Conceptual Explanation: A Type II error (false negative) occurs when the researcher fails
to reject a null hypothesis that is actually false.
3. Which sampling method provides the highest level of representativeness and minimizes
selection bias?
A. Purposive sampling
B. Snowball sampling
C. Convenience sampling
D. Stratified random sampling
Answer: D
Conceptual Explanation: Stratified random sampling ensures that subgroups of a
population are represented in proportion to their prevalence, reducing bias compared to
non-probability methods.
4. A nurse researcher is evaluating the ‘internal consistency’ of a new Likert scale measuring
burnout. Which statistical coefficient should be calculated?
A. Pearson’s r
, B. Cohen’s kappa
C. Odds ratio
D. Cronbach’s alpha
Answer: D
Conceptual Explanation: Cronbach’s alpha is the standard measure for internal
consistency reliability, indicating how well items on a scale measure the same construct.
5. In qualitative research, the process of the researcher setting aside their own preconceived
beliefs and opinions about a phenomenon is known as:
A. Reflexivity
B. Constant comparison
C. Theoretical sampling
D. Bracketing
Answer: D
Conceptual Explanation: Bracketing is a method used primarily in phenomenology where
researchers identify and hold back their personal biases to see the phenomenon clearly.
6. Which of the following represents the highest level of evidence in the traditional EBP
hierarchy?
A. Meta-analysis of RCTs
B. Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies
RESEARCH AND EVIDENCE-BASED
PRACTICE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
1. A researcher is studying the effects of a new bedside rounding protocol on patient
satisfaction. To control for potential confounding variables like nurse experience, which
statistical method is most appropriate?
A. Simple Linear Regression
B. Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA)
C. Independent Samples t-test
D. Chi-square test of independence
Answer: B
Conceptual Explanation: ANCOVA is used to compare means while controlling for the
effect of one or more continuous variables (covariates) that might influence the dependent
variable.
2. In a randomized controlled trial, the researcher fails to reject the null hypothesis when a
true difference actually exists in the population. This is known as:
A. Type II error
,B. Type I error
C. Selection bias
D. Internal validity threat
Answer: A
Conceptual Explanation: A Type II error (false negative) occurs when the researcher fails
to reject a null hypothesis that is actually false.
3. Which sampling method provides the highest level of representativeness and minimizes
selection bias?
A. Purposive sampling
B. Snowball sampling
C. Convenience sampling
D. Stratified random sampling
Answer: D
Conceptual Explanation: Stratified random sampling ensures that subgroups of a
population are represented in proportion to their prevalence, reducing bias compared to
non-probability methods.
4. A nurse researcher is evaluating the ‘internal consistency’ of a new Likert scale measuring
burnout. Which statistical coefficient should be calculated?
A. Pearson’s r
, B. Cohen’s kappa
C. Odds ratio
D. Cronbach’s alpha
Answer: D
Conceptual Explanation: Cronbach’s alpha is the standard measure for internal
consistency reliability, indicating how well items on a scale measure the same construct.
5. In qualitative research, the process of the researcher setting aside their own preconceived
beliefs and opinions about a phenomenon is known as:
A. Reflexivity
B. Constant comparison
C. Theoretical sampling
D. Bracketing
Answer: D
Conceptual Explanation: Bracketing is a method used primarily in phenomenology where
researchers identify and hold back their personal biases to see the phenomenon clearly.
6. Which of the following represents the highest level of evidence in the traditional EBP
hierarchy?
A. Meta-analysis of RCTs
B. Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies
