A nurse who works in a gerontology clinic is asked to examine the effectiveness of Vitamin D in improving bone mineral density among older clients. The nurse evaluates four recent studies on the topic.
Which study provides the best evidence to support the use of vitamin D?
A meta-analysis that concluded that bone density improved among individuals who took Vitamin D.
A cross-sectional study that found a strong relationship between Vitamin D intake and bone density.
A cohort study that concluded low levels of Vitamin D were linked to decreased bone mineral density.
A time series design study that reported that those who took Vitamin D had improved bone density.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
A meta-analysis that concluded that bone density improved among individuals who took Vitamin D. Rationale: A meta-analysis provides the highest level of evidence among the options listed. It synthesizes data from multiple studies, often randomized controlled trials (RCTs), to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of an intervention. In this case, the meta-analysis concluded that bone density improved among individuals who took Vitamin D, suggesting strong evidence to support its use.
Choice B rationale:
A cross-sectional study that found a strong relationship between Vitamin D intake and bone density. Rationale: Cross-sectional studies can identify associations between variables but cannot establish causality. While this study found a strong relationship, it does not provide as strong evidence as a meta-analysis of RCTs.
Choice C rationale:
A cohort study that concluded low levels of Vitamin D were linked to decreased bone mineral density. Rationale: Cohort studies can provide valuable evidence, but they may have limitations, such as confounding variables. While this study suggested a link, it may not be as robust as a meta-analysis of RCTs.
Choice D rationale:
A time series design study that reported that those who took Vitamin D had improved bone density. Rationale: Time series designs can be useful for assessing changes over time, but they may have limitations in terms of establishing causality. Additionally, the strength of evidence from a single time series study may not be as high as that from a meta-analysis of multiple RCTs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This study is experimental because it involves the manipulation of an independent variable (participation in a specified 3-month strenuous exercise program) to assess its impact on a dependent variable (Hemoglobin A1c findings) in two groups (participants and non-participants).
Choice B rationale:
An exploratory study typically aims to explore a new topic or area and may involve surveys, interviews, or observations to generate hypotheses and ideas. It does not necessarily involve an experimental design.
Choice C rationale:
A correlational study examines the relationship between variables but does not involve experimental manipulation of an independent variable.
Choice D rationale:
A developmental study typically investigates changes or development over time, such as in child development, but does not necessarily involve experimental manipulation of variables.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D rationale:
Nurses who have had a positive experience with hospice have significantly more positive attitudes toward care of terminally ill clients. Rationale: This interpretation accurately reflects the findings presented in the statement. It highlights that nurses who reported having positive experiences with hospice caregivers had more positive attitudes toward care for terminally ill clients. The statement does not provide information about the direction of causality or whether it is the greatest determinant, but it does indicate a significant association.
Choice A rationale:
Experience in caring for terminally ill clients is positively correlated with nurses' discussion of hospice care with terminally ill clients. Rationale: While this could be a potential interpretation, the statement does not specify a correlation; it only indicates a positive association between certain characteristics and nurses' attitudes toward hospice care.
Choice B rationale:
Oncology nurses have significantly more positive attitudes toward hospice care for terminally ill clients than nurses without oncology experience. Rationale: This interpretation is not supported by the statement, which does not mention oncology nurses specifically. It discusses positive experiences with hospice caregivers but does not compare nurses from different specialties.
Choice C rationale:
Past experience with hospice is the greatest determinant of a nurse's willingness to discuss hospice care with terminally ill clients. Rationale: This interpretation goes beyond the information provided in the statement. The statement indicates an association but does not specify that past experience with hospice is the greatest determinant.
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