28 Questions
What is the primary purpose of using random assignment in experimental study designs?
To control for potential errors and ensure the result is due to the intervention
Which type of study design provides the strongest evidence for concluding causation?
Randomized Controlled Trials
What is the primary advantage of using experimental study designs?
They provide the strongest evidence for concluding causation
What is the main difference between semi-experimental and experimental study designs?
The level of control over extraneous variables
What is the primary limitation of using case reports and case series in research?
They are prone to bias and lack generalizability
What is the primary purpose of using meta-analysis in research?
To combine the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions
What is the main goal of randomization in clinical trials?
To make all study groups as equal as possible at the beginning of the experiment
What is a potential issue with simple randomization?
It can result in an imbalance in the number of subjects in the groups
What is the purpose of stratification in randomization?
To identify known factors that may influence the study outcome
What is the advantage of block randomization?
It ensures an equal balance between groups, especially when interim analyses are planned
What is a potential concern with the use of placebo in clinical trials?
It raises ethical concerns
Why is it important to limit the information provided to the person randomizing study participants?
To prevent bias by limiting unnecessary information
What is the primary purpose of the washout period in a crossover trial?
To allow for the elimination of the treatment's effects
What is the primary advantage of a crossover trial design?
It requires a smaller sample size compared to parallel-group designs
What is the term for the phenomenon where patients improve simply because they receive special attention by being in a study?
Hawthorne effect
How many phases are involved in a crossover trial?
Three
What is the primary goal of a Phase I crossover trial?
To assign the groups to the experimental treatment and placebo
What is the primary purpose of an equivalency experimental study design?
To determine whether the new drug is therapeutically similar to the control drug
What is the main advantage of randomization in experimental study designs?
It decreases bias and confounding variables
What is the limitation of experimental study designs in terms of generalizability?
They have difficulty generalizing to a population due to the controlled environment
What is the main disadvantage of experimental study designs in terms of ethics?
Ethical concerns may arise
What is the term used to describe the small pre-specified amount by which the tested agent is not worse than the comparator?
Delta
What is the primary reason why non-randomized controlled trials are considered weaker than RCTs?
They are open to many sources of bias
What is the main advantage of using semi-experimental study designs?
They are less expensive and have a faster timeline
What is the primary limitation of using non-randomized controlled trials?
Their conclusions are highly questionable
In which field of study are non-randomized controlled trials more commonly used?
Social sciences
What is the primary difference between semi-experimental and experimental study designs?
The presence or absence of randomization
What is the primary consequence of not using randomization in study designs?
Dissimilar groups and highly questionable conclusions
Test your understanding of semi-experimental and experimental study designs, including their differences, advantages, and disadvantages. Learn how to apply findings of semi-experimental and experimental studies in evidence-based practice. This quiz is based on a lecture by Genevieve Hale, PharmD, BCPS, BCCP, CPh at Nova Southeastern University College of Pharmacy.
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