In collecting the best evidence, the gold standard for research ...

[rayancarla1]

In collecting the best evidence, the gold standard for research is
 
  a. The randomized controlled trial (RCT).
  b. The peer-reviewed article.
  c. Qualitative research.
  d. The opinion of expert committees.

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a patient who has a pulse rate of 44 . His blood pressure is within normal limits. In trying to determine the cause of the patient's low heart rate, the nurse would suspect
 
  a. That the patient would have a fever.
  b. Possible hemorrhage or bleeding.
  c. Calcium channel blockers or digitalis medications.
  d. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

[CourtneyCNorton]

Answer to Question 1

A
Individual RCTs are the gold standard for research. A peer-reviewed article means that a panel of experts has reviewed the article; this is not a research method. Qualitative research is valuable in identifying information about how patients cope with or manage various health problems and their perceptions of illness. It does not usually have the robustness of an RCT. Expert opinion is on the bottom of the hierarchical pyramid of evidence.

Answer to Question 2

C
Negative chronotropic drugs such as digitalis, beta-adrenergic agents, and calcium channel blockers can slow down pulse rate. Fever, bleeding, hemorrhage, and COPD all increase the body's need for oxygen, leading to an increased heart rate.

[rayancarla1]

Excellent

[amandanbreshears]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it