A nurse researcher can control for selection bias in a study by taking which of these actions?
A) Allow subjects to self-select into an experimental or a control group
B) Handpick the subjects for group assignment
C) Use defined selection criteria for approaching potential subjects
D) Have someone other than the researcher select the subjects for the study

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Selection bias occurs when certain subjects are systematically excluded or included in a study. To control for selection bias, a nurse researcher can use defined selection criteria for approaching potential subjects. This ensures that subjects are selected in a systematic and objective way, rather than through subjective or arbitrary means. Allowing subjects to self-select or handpicking subjects can introduce bias, as certain groups may be more likely to participate or be excluded based on personal characteristics. Having someone else select the subjects can also introduce bias if that person is not using defined selection criteria. Therefore, using defined selection criteria is the best way to control for selection bias in a study.

A Nurse Researcher Can Control for Selection Bias in a Study