When creating samples for outcomes research, which of the ...

[Kthamas]

When creating samples for outcomes research, which of the following is not a generally accepted guideline to follow?
 
  a. All patients are represented.
  b. Heterogeneous samples are preferred.
  c. Random sampling is very desirable.
  d. Very large samples are needed.

Question 2

Staffing patterns is one area of study related to quality health care outcomes. What are the most current findings?
 
  a. A policy change should be implemented in hospitals based on the findings.
  b. Low levels of RN staffing were associated with higher rates of serious complications.
  c. Student nurses could assume some of the duties of RNs to alleviate the staff shortage.
  d. The most important thing was to have enough personnel to give a good staff-to-patient ratio.

[blakeserpa]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Random sampling is generally not encouraged, as it does not allow for the researcher to influence the sample characteristics. Typical sampling criteria for outcomes research include obtaining a very large, heterogenous sample in which all patients have the likelihood of being represented.
Typical sampling criteria for outcomes research include obtaining a very large, heterogenous sample in which all patients have the likelihood of being represented.
Typical sampling criteria for outcomes research include obtaining a very large, heterogenous sample in which all patients have the likelihood of being represented.
Typical sampling criteria for outcomes research include obtaining a very large, heterogenous sample in which all patients have the likelihood of being represented.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The most current findings overwhelmingly show that low levels of RN staffing are associated with higher mortality rates and complications.
Although policy changes involving RN-patient staffing ratios may be the outcome of such research, no definite ratios or recommendations have been set.
The replacement of registered nurses with student nurses is not a finding of the studies.
Although it is important to have enough personnel to provide good staff-patient ratio, the focus of the study was patient outcome and RN ratio.