Discuss the selection of instruments or tools to measure the clinical question variables. The validity and reliability of the instruments or tools will be addressed. Discuss the methods for:
• The distribution and collection of the tools,
• Addressing potential concerns for confidentiality,
• Protection of participants and,
• Application of analog or technology.
Be sure to answer all the questions for each bullet point completely.
Separate each section in your paper with a clear heading that allows your professor to know which bullet you are addressing in that section of your paper.
The cover page and reference page do not count toward the minimum word amount. Review the rubric criteria for this assignment.
1. Study the required chapter(s) of the textbook and any additional recommended resources.
2. Consider the discussion and any insights you gained from it.
3. Review the rubric and the specifications below to ensure that your response aligns with all assignment expectations.
Technology/Digital: Online surveys (using platforms like Qualtrics or REDCap), mobile apps, and data extraction from electronic health records (EHRs) offer a wider reach and automated data collection. This approach reduces manual entry errors and allows for real-time data monitoring.
Addressing Potential Concerns for Confidentiality
Protecting participant confidentiality is a core ethical duty in research.
De-identification: Personal identifiers like names, birth dates, or addresses are removed from the data and replaced with a unique study ID. The link between the ID and personal information is stored separately and securely, accessible only to authorized personnel.
Secure Storage: All data, whether physical or digital, must be stored in a secure location. Paper forms should be in locked cabinets, while electronic data must be on encrypted, password-protected servers.
Limited Access: Only the research team members directly involved in data analysis should have access to the information, a principle known as "need-to-know."
Protection of Participants
Beyond confidentiality, protecting participants involves ensuring their well-being and rights are respected.
Informed Consent: Every participant must fully understand the study's purpose, risks, benefits, and their right to withdraw at any time without penalty before agreeing to participate.
Risk Mitigation: The research team must identify and minimize any potential physical, psychological, or social risks. This might involve providing a list of resources for participants who become distressed or stopping a study if unforeseen adverse events occur.
Voluntary Participation: Participants must know their decision to participate (or not) won't affect their clinical care or standing with the institution.
Application of Analog or Technology
The choice between analog and technology-based tools depends on the study's context and population.
Analog Tools: These are best for populations who may not be comfortable with technology, such as older adults, or in areas with limited internet access. They can also feel less intimidating for sensitive topics. The main drawbacks are the time and potential for error in manual data entry.
Sample Answer
When addressing a clinical question, selecting the correct instruments to measure variables is paramount. The chosen tools must be both valid and reliable. Validity ensures the tool accurately measures the intended concept (e.g., a depression scale measures depression, not general stress). Reliability ensures the tool provides consistent results over time and across different users. Without these qualities, a study's findings can't be trusted.
Methods for Distribution and Collection
The distribution and collection of tools should be systematic and efficient. A hybrid approach often works best, leveraging both traditional and modern methods.
Analog/In-person: Tools like paper-based surveys, physical exam instruments, or clinical questionnaires can be administered directly by a researcher in a clinic or hospital. This allows for real-time clarification and can increase response rates. Data is then manually transcribed.