In researching the effectiveness of an antihypertensive medication, the nurse knows that the medication would be the _________________ variable and the person's blood pressure would be the ____________________ variable.
A) dependent, independent
B) independent, dependent
C) treatment, controlled
D) controlled, treatment

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In experimental research, the independent variable is referred to as an experimental variable or treatment variable. An independent variable is a concept or idea whose value determines the value of other (dependent) variables. In research, the independent variable comprises the experimental treatment or intervention, and it is manipulated by the researcher to yield various outcomes. The dependent variable is the outcome that is affected by manipulation of the independent variable. For example, in researching the effectiveness of an antihypertensive medication, the medication is the independent variable and the person's blood pressure is the dependent variable. In a controlled study, some of the participants are assigned to the treatment group, and others are assigned to the control group by a random process. The control group does not receive the treatment. In the clinical trial of a medication, the control group receives a placebo. The purpose of a control group is to prevent bias and ensure that the outcome results from the treatment rather than some other factor.

In Researching the Effectiveness of an Antihypertensive Medication, the Nurse