1.
Which of the following roles is demonstrated by a nurse who reads research articles and incorporates findings into nursing practice?
Correct Answer
A. Consumer
Explanation
A nurse who reads research articles and incorporates research findings into nursing practice is demonstrating the role of a consumer. As a consumer, the nurse is actively seeking out and staying informed about the latest research in order to apply evidence-based practices in their work. This role involves critically evaluating research articles, understanding the implications of the findings, and integrating them into their clinical decision-making process. By being a consumer of research, the nurse is able to provide the best possible care based on the most current and reliable evidence available.
2.
Florence Nightingale is most known for which of the following contributions to nursing research?
Correct Answer
B. Data collection and analysis.
Explanation
Florence Nightingale is most noted for her contributions to nursing research in the area of data collection and analysis. She was a pioneer in using statistical methods to analyze healthcare data and played a significant role in improving public health outcomes. Nightingale's meticulous data collection and analysis helped to identify patterns and trends, which led to important advancements in nursing practice and healthcare delivery. Her work emphasized the importance of evidence-based practice and laid the foundation for modern nursing research.
3.
Which historical event had a significant impact on funding for nursing research?
Correct Answer
C. Formation of the National Institute for Nursing Research.
Explanation
The formation of the National Institute for Nursing Research had a major impact on the funding for nursing research. This institute was specifically created to support and promote nursing research, providing funding opportunities and resources for researchers in the field. It played a crucial role in advancing nursing science and improving healthcare outcomes through evidence-based practice. The establishment of this dedicated research institute marked a significant milestone in the recognition and support of nursing research, leading to increased funding and opportunities for nurses to contribute to the body of knowledge in the field.
4.
Which of the following is an example of inductive reasoning?
Correct Answer
B. Reasoning from a single diabetic patient to all diabetic patients.
Explanation
Inductive reasoning involves drawing a general conclusion based on specific observations or examples. In this case, reasoning from a single diabetic patient to all diabetic patients is an example of inductive reasoning. By observing and studying one diabetic patient, we can make generalizations and form conclusions about the characteristics, symptoms, and treatment approaches that may apply to all diabetic patients. This is a common approach in medical research and practice, where knowledge gained from studying individual cases is used to inform broader understanding and decision-making.
5.
Why are both quantitative and qualitative research approaches particularly useful in nursing?
Correct Answer
D. They balance each other by generating different types of knowledge.
Explanation
Quantitative and qualitative research approaches complement each other by providing diverse perspectives. Quantitative research offers objective, statistical insights, while qualitative research focuses on subjective, detailed understandings. Together, these methods create a balanced approach to understanding nursing practices and patient care, allowing for comprehensive, evidence-based insights.
6.
Which type of research requires some control by the researcher to implement the study treatment?
Correct Answer
C. Quasi-experimental
Explanation
Quasi-experimental research involves at least some control by the researcher to implement the study treatment. In this type of research, the researcher manipulates the independent variable and measures the effect on the dependent variable, similar to experimental research. However, unlike experimental research, quasi-experimental research lacks random assignment of participants to groups. This means that the researcher has some control over the treatment being administered but cannot completely randomize participants into different groups.
7.
Which type of research involves high researcher control, random sampling, and a laboratory setting?
Correct Answer
D. Experimental
Explanation
Experimental research is characterized by high levels of control, random sampling, and often a laboratory setting to minimize outside influences. This setup allows researchers to directly observe the effects of manipulated variables on outcomes, making the findings more reliable and generalizable, though it may not fully reflect real-world conditions.
8.
According to Benner (1984), clinical knowledge and expertise are most effectively acquired through:
Correct Answer
A. Professional experience
Explanation
Benner (1984) emphasizes that clinical knowledge is best acquired through hands-on, professional experience. Engaging directly in patient care provides invaluable insights, as real-world encounters help practitioners refine their skills and develop sound judgment. This experiential learning is key to developing practical expertise that enhances patient care.
9.
What category of research does the question "Does telephone follow-up by nurses improve patients' compliance with medication regimens?" fall under?
Correct Answer
A. Applied research
Explanation
The research question inquires about the effectiveness of telephone follow-up by nurses in improving patients' compliance with their medication regimens. This question is focused on practical application and seeks to provide a solution or intervention to a real-world problem. Therefore, it falls under the category of applied research, which aims to address specific issues and generate practical knowledge that can be implemented in real-life settings.
10.
A study investigating the effect of frequent position changes on decubitus ulcer healing would be classified as:
Correct Answer
A. Applied research
Explanation
Applied research refers to a type of research that is conducted with the intention of solving practical problems or addressing specific issues in real-world settings. In this case, the researcher is investigating the effect of frequency of position change on the healing of decubitus ulcers, which is a practical concern in healthcare. Therefore, the study can be described as applied research as it aims to provide practical solutions or interventions for the treatment of decubitus ulcers.
11.
In which setting does applied research aim to solve clinical problems?
Correct Answer
C. Natural
Explanation
Applied research seeks to solve a clinical problem in a natural setting. This means that the research is conducted in a real-world environment, such as a hospital or community, where the problem actually occurs. This allows researchers to study the problem in its natural context and gather data that is representative of real-life situations. By conducting research in a natural setting, the findings can be more applicable and relevant to the clinical problem being studied.
12.
When a researcher uses random sampling to reduce bias in a study sample, which strategy is being implemented?
Correct Answer
B. Control
Explanation
The researcher's use of random sampling aims to decrease bias in the study sample. By randomly selecting participants from the population, the researcher ensures that each individual has an equal chance of being included in the study. This helps to control for any potential confounding variables or biases that could influence the results. Therefore, the correct answer is control.
13.
Which definition best describes rigor in quantitative research?
Correct Answer
C. The amount of control and precision exerted by the methodology.
Explanation
Rigor in quantitative research refers to the amount of control and precision exerted by the methodology. It involves the use of systematic and standardized procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data collected. Rigorous research methods involve careful planning, sample selection, data collection, and analysis techniques to minimize bias and errors. By exerting control and precision, researchers can increase the validity and generalizability of their findings, making them more reliable and trustworthy.
14.
If a researcher collects data on stress and coping in caregivers within the caregivers’ homes, which research setting does this represent?
Correct Answer
A. Natural, field
Explanation
The researcher's study takes place in the caregiver's home, indicating that the research setting is a natural, field setting. This means that the study is conducted in a real-life environment, allowing for a more realistic and ecologically valid understanding of stress and coping in caregivers of elderly stroke victims.
15.
Problem identification in the research process is equivalent to which step in the nursing process?
Correct Answer
D. Nursing diagnosis
Explanation
In the research process, problem identification is the first step where researchers identify and define the problem they want to study. Similarly, in the nursing process, nursing diagnosis is the step where nurses identify and define the patient's health problem based on the assessment data. Both problem identification in the research process and nursing diagnosis in the nursing process involve identifying and defining the problem to be addressed. Therefore, the correct answer is nursing diagnosis.
16.
The "plan" in the problem-solving process is equivalent to which step in the research process?
Correct Answer
B. Design
Explanation
The plan in the problem-solving process is equivalent to the design step in the research process. In both cases, a plan or design is created to guide the overall process. In problem-solving, the plan outlines the steps and strategies to solve a specific problem, while in research, the design refers to the overall framework and methodology that will be used to conduct the study. Both involve careful planning and consideration of the best approach to achieve the desired outcomes or goals.
17.
In which way does the research process differ from the nursing process?
Correct Answer
C. Has a broader focus
Explanation
The research process differs from the nursing process in that it has a broader focus. While the nursing process is specific to the field of nursing and focuses on providing patient care, the research process is applicable to various disciplines and aims to generate new knowledge and understanding. It involves investigating and exploring a wide range of topics and questions, not limited to nursing practice alone.
18.
Which aspect of a study identifies its specific aim or goal based on the defined problem?
Correct Answer
A. Purpose
Explanation
The purpose of a study is to clearly identify the specific aim or goal that the study aims to achieve. It provides a clear direction and focus for the research, outlining what the researcher intends to accomplish through the study. The purpose statement usually highlights the problem or gap in knowledge that the study seeks to address and provides a rationale for conducting the research. Therefore, the purpose is the most appropriate option for identifying the specific aim or goal of the study based on the identified problem.
19.
If liver transplant recipients are asked to complete a questionnaire on their post-transplant quality of life (QOL), what is a likely assumption the researcher made?
Correct Answer
B. Subjects can identify a personal awareness of QOL.
Explanation
A likely assumption here is that subjects have the self-awareness needed to reflect on and evaluate their quality of life following a liver transplant. By asking them to complete a questionnaire about their experiences, the researcher presumes that participants can recognize and articulate aspects of their QOL. This assumption is essential, as it underlies the validity of self-reported data in understanding patient perspectives. For meaningful data, participants must be able to accurately assess and share insights on their post-transplant experiences.
20.
A researcher conducts a smaller study before a large, multisite research project to identify any issues. This smaller study is called a(n):
Correct Answer
C. Pilot study
Explanation
A pilot study is a smaller version of a planned research project, conducted to identify any potential problems before undertaking a larger, multisite investigation. This preliminary study helps researchers refine the design, methods, and data collection processes to improve the study’s feasibility and reliability. By conducting a pilot study, the researcher can make necessary adjustments, increasing the likelihood of a successful and well-executed main study. This approach is particularly useful in complex or large-scale research, where identifying issues early can prevent costly errors later on.
21.
The researcher uses which portion of the research report to capture the reader's attention?
Correct Answer
abstract
Explanation
The researcher uses the abstract section of a research report to capture the reader's attention. The abstract provides a concise summary of the entire research, highlighting key objectives, methods, findings, and conclusions. This brief overview enables readers to quickly understand the main points and decide if they wish to explore the report further. By presenting essential information upfront, the abstract serves as an engaging summary that invites readers to delve deeper into the study's content.
22.
In which section of a research report would you most likely find the sentence, "The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between health beliefs and breast self-examination"?
Correct Answer
abstract
Explanation
"The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between health beliefs and breast self-examination" would likely appear in the abstract section. The abstract includes a concise summary of the study's purpose, methods, results, and conclusions. It gives readers an immediate understanding of the study's objectives, helping them assess its relevance to their interests and decide whether to read further.
23.
What is the first and one of the most significant steps in the research process?
Correct Answer
B. Identifying the research problem.
Explanation
Identifying the research problem is the first and one of the most critical steps in the research process. This step defines the study’s scope and focus, guiding the selection of variables, research purpose, and feasibility considerations. By clearly identifying the issue to investigate, researchers lay the foundation for systematic exploration, which allows them to contribute meaningfully to the field’s knowledge base.
24.
The purpose statement in a research report should identify the study variable(s) and what other key element?
Correct Answer
C. Population
Explanation
In a purpose statement, identifying both the study variables and the population is essential. The population refers to the specific group of individuals the study aims to generalize findings to, which enhances the study's relevance and applicability. Together, the variables and population provide a clear focus for the research, aiding in the design and data analysis to ensure that the findings are representative.
25.
Which of the following is an important source for identifying a research problem?
Correct Answer
A. Nursing practice
Explanation
Nursing practice serves as a valuable source for identifying research problems, as it reflects real-world challenges and situations. Nurses encounter practical issues that can reveal gaps in current knowledge, leading to research questions. Through analyzing these challenges, nurses contribute to studies that aim to improve patient outcomes and inform better practices within healthcare.
26.
If a study on quality of life cites two previous investigations suggesting a link between spirituality and quality of life, this information suggests that the current study is significant because it:
Correct Answer
B. Builds on previous research.
Explanation
When a study builds on findings from previous research, it adds to the existing knowledge base by further exploring or confirming the topic under investigation. In this case, the cited research on spirituality and quality of life indicates that the current study contributes to understanding this relationship. By adding new insights or validating past findings, the research reinforces and potentially expands existing theories on the subject.
27.
Which of the following is examined to determine the feasibility of a study?
Correct Answer
C. Availability of subjects
Explanation
The feasibility of a study relies significantly on the availability of subjects, as a sufficient participant pool is necessary to conduct meaningful data collection and analysis. Without enough subjects, the study’s practical implementation could be compromised, potentially impacting the reliability of the results. Therefore, researchers assess subject availability early to ensure the study’s feasibility.
28.
Obtaining written permission from hospitals to access patients in a proposed study exemplifies which aspect of research?
Correct Answer
D. Feasibility
Explanation
Securing written permission from hospitals to access patients reflects the feasibility aspect of research. Feasibility assesses the practical elements necessary to conduct a study, such as permission to access participants or resources. By obtaining these permissions, the researcher demonstrates that the study is possible to execute as planned, enhancing the project’s credibility and potential success.
29.
What does a research hypothesis do in a study?
Correct Answer
A. Predicts the expected results or outcomes of the study
Explanation
A research hypothesis predicts the expected results or outcomes of a study, suggesting a possible relationship between variables. It gives the research direction, guiding data collection and analysis, and allowing researchers to test assumptions. By comparing outcomes against the hypothesis, researchers can evaluate its validity and draw conclusions, advancing knowledge in the field.
30.
The statement "This study explores the experience of caregiving by adult daughters of parents with Alzheimer's disease" is an example of which of the following?
Correct Answer
A. Objective
Explanation
The given statement is an objective because it defines the purpose or goal of the study without making predictions or assumptions. Objectives outline the study's aim or scope, helping readers understand its focus. Unlike a hypothesis, which suggests a relationship or outcome, an objective provides a neutral description of the topic being investigated.
31.
What type of hypothesis is the following?"Normal saline flush with heparin is more effective than normal saline flush alone in maintaining patency of an intermittent intravenous site."
Correct Answer
D. Simple, directional
Explanation
This hypothesis is a simple, directional hypothesis because it clearly states that one variable (normal saline flush with heparin) is more effective than another variable (normal saline flush alone) in maintaining patency of an intermittent intravenous site. A simple hypothesis involves only two variables—in this case, saline flush with heparin versus saline flush alone—and is directional because it specifies the expected difference or effect between the two variables. The directional nature of this hypothesis indicates that one treatment is anticipated to be more effective than the other, guiding the focus of the study on comparing outcomes.
32.
What type of hypothesis is the following?"Cancer patients who receive music therapy complain less frequently of pain and require less pain medication than cancer patients not receiving music therapy."
Correct Answer
A. Complex, directional hypothesis
Explanation
This hypothesis is a complex, directional hypothesis as it predicts a specific relationship between two variables: receiving music therapy and pain reduction. The hypothesis specifies that cancer patients receiving music therapy will experience less pain and require fewer pain medications than those not receiving it, establishing a clear direction of the anticipated effect. It is complex because it involves more than two variables—music therapy, frequency of pain complaints, and medication use—suggesting that the therapy influences both pain experience and medication needs in cancer patients.
33.
What type of hypothesis is the following?"Low-fat diet is related to lower total cholesterol and higher HDL (high-density lipoprotein)."
Correct Answer
B. Complex, directional, associative
Explanation
This hypothesis is complex because it involves multiple variables—low-fat diet, total cholesterol, and HDL levels. It is directional as it suggests specific outcomes: a low-fat diet is associated with lower total cholesterol and higher HDL. This is an associative hypothesis, implying that there is a correlation or relationship between a low-fat diet and cholesterol levels rather than establishing a cause-and-effect connection. This type of hypothesis allows researchers to explore the association between dietary choices and cholesterol levels without implying direct causation.
34.
What is the dependent variable?
Correct Answer
D. The response or outcome that the researcher wants to understand.
Explanation
The dependent variable represents the response or outcome the researcher seeks to understand in a study. It is the variable being measured or observed to assess the effects of the independent variable. By manipulating the independent variable, researchers can examine changes in the dependent variable, helping to establish patterns, relationships, or effects in the data. Understanding this variable is essential as it provides insight into the primary outcome of interest, which may support or refute the study’s hypothesis.
35.
Identify the independent variable in the following hypothesis:"Cancer patients who receive music therapy complain less frequently of pain and require less pain medication than cancer patients not receiving music therapy."
Correct Answer
D. Music therapy
Explanation
The independent variable in this hypothesis is "music therapy" as it is the factor manipulated or controlled by the researchers. The hypothesis suggests that music therapy may reduce pain complaints and the need for pain medication among cancer patients. By comparing groups receiving and not receiving music therapy, the study aims to assess its effect on pain-related outcomes, thereby positioning music therapy as the primary variable influencing the results.
36.
In the hypothesis: "Structured preoperative support is more effective in reducing surgical patients' perception of pain and request for analgesics than structured postoperative support," what is "Request for analgesics"?
Correct Answer
B. Dependent variable.
Explanation
The "request for analgesics" in this hypothesis is the dependent variable, as it is the outcome being measured to determine the effect of structured preoperative support. The study aims to see whether this type of support reduces the need for analgesics compared to postoperative support. By observing changes in the dependent variable, researchers can evaluate the impact of the independent variable (type of support), providing insight into the potential benefits of preoperative interventions on postoperative pain management.
37.
In the hypothesis: "Structured preoperative support is more effective in reducing surgical patients' perception of pain and request for analgesics than structured postoperative support," what is "Perception of pain"?
Correct Answer
B. Dependent variable.
Explanation
The "perception of pain" is the dependent variable in this study, as it is the outcome the researchers seek to understand and measure. The hypothesis suggests that structured preoperative support may influence patients' pain perception post-surgery. By observing variations in this variable, researchers can assess the effect of the independent variable (structured support type), potentially demonstrating the value of preoperative support in pain management.
38.
In the hypothesis: "Structured preoperative support is more effective in reducing surgical patients' perception of pain and request for analgesics than structured postoperative support," what is the "Type of support"?
Correct Answer
A. Independent variable
Explanation
The "type of support" (structured preoperative or structured postoperative) serves as the independent variable in this study. Researchers are interested in examining how different types of support influence patients' pain perception and their request for analgesics post-surgery. The type of support is manipulated to assess its impact on these outcomes, thereby positioning it as the variable expected to cause changes in the dependent variables (perception of pain and analgesic requests).
39.
In the hypothesis: "Structured preoperative support is more effective in reducing surgical patients' perception of pain and request for analgesics than structured postoperative support," this hypothesis is:
Correct Answer
C. Complex, directional, research
Explanation
This hypothesis is complex as it involves multiple variables—structured support, perception of pain, and request for analgesics. It is directional because it states that structured preoperative support is more effective than postoperative support in reducing pain perception and analgesic use. Additionally, it is a research hypothesis, proposing an investigation into the effectiveness of different support types on surgical outcomes, guiding the study’s objective.
40.
The statement below is an example of which of the following?"In this study, pain is reflected as a score between 0 and 10 on the Post-operative Pain Rating Scale."
Correct Answer
D. Operational definition
Explanation
The given statement is an operational definition because it defines "pain" specifically as a score between 0 and 10 on the Post-operative Pain Rating Scale. An operational definition outlines how a variable will be measured or manipulated in the study, allowing for clarity and precision in research. By defining pain in quantifiable terms, researchers can objectively assess and compare patient outcomes, ensuring consistency and accuracy in data collection.
41.
In which section of the research report might the problem statement be located?
Correct Answer
A. Literature review
Explanation
The problem statement is typically located in the literature review section of a research report. This section provides an overview of existing literature and research related to the topic of study. It is in this section that the researcher identifies the gap or problem in the existing knowledge, which then leads to the formulation of the problem statement. By reviewing the literature, the researcher can establish the need for the study and justify its significance.
42.
What does the literature review section of a research report typically summarize?
Correct Answer
A. Empirical literature
Explanation
The literature review section usually summarizes empirical literature, focusing on previous studies related to the research topic. This summary establishes a context for the current study by discussing relevant research findings, methodologies, and conclusions. By reviewing empirical literature, researchers can identify gaps in knowledge, justify their study's significance, and position their research within the broader academic field. This analysis is crucial in establishing a strong foundation for the study and guiding future investigations in the area.
43.
Which of the following best represents a primary source in research?
Correct Answer
B. A study report written by the original researcher.
Explanation
A study report authored by the researcher who conducted the study is considered a primary source. Primary sources provide original information directly from the investigator, such as firsthand findings, data, and conclusions. Unlike secondary sources, which analyze or interpret primary data, primary sources offer the most direct insights into the research question, methodology, and results. Primary sources are essential for establishing credibility and authenticity in academic research, enabling a clear understanding of the original study's contributions and findings.
44.
At what stage is the literature review typically conducted in a qualitative study?
Correct Answer
D. Varies with Study Type
Explanation
In qualitative research, the literature review timing can vary based on the study type. It may be conducted before the study to form a foundational understanding, during the study to support emerging themes, or after the study to contextualize findings. This flexibility allows the researcher to adapt the literature review to the needs and developments of the study. Some qualitative methodologies benefit from an iterative literature review process, where new insights are incorporated as the study progresses, enhancing the depth and relevance of the findings.
45.
Which information is most commonly covered in a quantitative literature review?
Correct Answer
C. Approaches for Investigating Similar Problems
Explanation
A quantitative literature review typically includes descriptions of approaches used in investigating similar problems, offering insight into established research designs, methodologies, and measures. By summarizing prior quantitative studies, researchers understand the standard techniques, hypotheses, and frameworks in their field. This summary helps identify effective methods, highlights limitations, and sets a basis for methodological choices in the current study. A well-conducted literature review in quantitative research lays a structured foundation for replicable, evidence-based practices in future studies.
46.
What is the primary purpose of reviewing relevant literature in research?
Correct Answer
B. Establishing the Knowledge Base on a Problem
Explanation
The main goal of a literature review is to delineate the existing knowledge base surrounding a specific research problem, allowing researchers to understand what has already been explored. By identifying knowledge gaps and highlighting relevant studies, researchers justify the significance of their investigation. This background information also helps refine research questions, guiding study design, methodology, and theoretical framework. Establishing a clear knowledge base through a literature review is essential for situating new research within the field's broader context.
47.
Which resource is most critical for conducting a literature review?
Correct Answer
B. An academic library
Explanation
An academic library is an invaluable resource for conducting a literature review, providing access to scholarly journals, databases, books, and articles. These resources allow researchers to find credible, peer-reviewed studies and review a vast amount of literature in their field. Academic libraries often have dedicated staff who can assist with search strategies and resource access, and they may provide interlibrary loans for hard-to-find materials. This access ensures a comprehensive literature review, offering a reliable foundation for the study’s development.
48.
Which index provides the most extensive collection of nursing sources?
Correct Answer
C. Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature (CINAHL)
Explanation
The Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) is widely recognized for its comprehensive coverage of nursing and allied health literature, encompassing journals, books, and conference materials. Tailored for nursing research, CINAHL offers an extensive database of articles and sources essential for locating relevant literature in nursing and related health fields. Its focus on nursing and allied health distinguishes it from broader medical indexes, making it an indispensable tool for researchers in these areas.
49.
What is a crucial step when beginning a database search for literature on a topic of interest?
Correct Answer
C. Identifying Keywords
Explanation
Identifying keywords is a critical first step in a database search, as keywords represent the core concepts related to the research topic. Effective keyword selection narrows the search, ensuring that the most relevant and focused articles are retrieved. Researchers often brainstorm terms or use keywords from their research question to optimize search results, saving time and enhancing accuracy. Utilizing appropriate keywords is essential for efficient database navigation, particularly when searching large academic or research databases for high-quality sources.
50.
What does the "21" signify in the following APA-formatted reference?
Reference:
Harris, R. M., Bausell, R. B., Scott, D. E., Hetherington, S. E., & Kavanagh, K. H. (1998). An intervention for changing high-risk HIV behaviors of African American drug-dependent women. Research in Nursing and Health, 21(3), pp. 239-250.
Correct Answer
A. Volume number
Explanation
In an APA reference, the number following the journal title indicates the volume in which the article was published. Volume numbers represent the overarching collection of issues published within a specific year. In this example, "21" denotes the journal's volume, allowing readers to locate the publication within its respective year. This is distinct from the issue number, which narrows down to the specific issue within that volume.