Deck 10: Epidemiology and Policy

Question 1

Why is reporting effect size in a study possibly more relevant than reporting the p values in intervention studies?

Answer 1

The effect size estimates the impact of a treatment on the outcome desired. When reporting effect sizes, the reader can get a better view of the clinical significance of the finding compared to the p value. If a study reports statistical significance, but it also has a weak effect, then it indicates the intervention may not be clinically significant. The larger the effect size, the more clinically significant the result, which assists the reader in understanding the overall impact of the intervention.

Question 2

How are the years of potential life lost (YPLL) used in relation to policy issues?

Answer 2

The YPLL can be reviewed to assess and determine policies that are needed specific to the group being studies. The YPLL for various causes are available on the CDC website. As one studies the YPLL for different groups, it can assist in determining which causes or population groups may benefit from developing policies to improve survival. The YPLL helps to guide in the development of public policy to improve conditions.

Question 3

The nurse is assisting during discharge of a patient and her newborn. The mother states, "I don't use a car seat. The baby is too small and will be safer if I hold it." The nurse informs the mother of which violation?

A) Local policy regarding child safety
B) Public health safety recommendations
C) Legislation about motor vehicle safety
D) Mandates from child protection services

Answer 3

C

Question 4

The nurse works in an out-patient surgery center. Which policy is an example of a micro-level initiative at the center?

A) Discharge timeframe after administering opioid medication
B) Surgical procedures which are performed on out-patient basis
C) Order of surgical procedures based on level of patient acuity
D) Number of staff members needed during a surgical procedure

Question 5

The nurse manager on a medical-surgical unit is proposing a study to address the high incidence of readmissions. Which staff member comment does the nurse manager recognize as lacking a spirit of inquiry?

A) "I was known as the change nerd in nursing school."
B) "I was just reading an article about this exact topic."
C) "I will be glad to assist with finding recent literature."
D) "With chronic illnesses, readmission is just expected."

Question 6

The nurse is planning a community screening for men to detect early signs of prostate cancer. Which screening consideration is appropriate?

A) Ultrasound examination
B) Questionnaire about symptoms
C) Blood samples for lab testing
D) Biopsy for tissue examination

Question 7

The nurse is assisting with a policy change related to admission of children into public schools who have not received immunizations. Which consideration is taken during preparation of a policy brief?

A) Present information in amounts that are memorable.
B) Utilize professional vocabulary to promote understanding.
C) Include a vast variety of audiovisuals to ensure engagement.
D) Remain neutral about possible changes the policy may cause.

Question 8

A meta-analysis involves an analysis of published effect estimates from each of the studies selected.

Question 9

Within the United States, advanced practice registered nurses are permitted a full scope of practice due to policy and legislation.

Question 10

Policy outcome is the identification of specific elements in a policy that are most likely effective, including quantitative and qualitative data.

Question 11

________ medicine includes evidence-based treatments, which involves adjusting treatment protocols based on lab results and other indicators.

Question 12

In _______ experiments, researchers do not manipulate events but will set up a study due to the occurrence of some incident.