Chapter 5: Research Problem and Purpose
Test Bank
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. A researcher has conducted 9 clinical studies, some quantitative and others
... [Show More] qualitative, all of which focus on
depression’s relationship to perceived abandonment. “Depression’s relationship to perceived abandonment” is an example of
which of the following?
a. Research problem
b.
Research topic
c. Research purpose
d.
Problem statement
ANS: B
Research topics are concepts, phenomena of interest, or broad problem areas that researchers can focus on to enhance evidencebased
nursing. A research problem is an area of concern where there is a gap in the knowledge base needed for nursing practice.
Research topics contain numerous potential research problems, and each problem provides the basis for developing many
research purposes. The problem statement identifies the specific gap in the knowledge needed for practice. A nursing situation
often includes a variety of research topics or concepts.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Application REF: Page 73
2. Why is replicating a research study essential for knowledge development?
a. Each time a study is replicated, its probability of error decreases.
b.
Reproducing a study decreases theoretical knowledge, increasing real knowledge.
c. Replication helps confirm that the initial results were not reached in error.
d.
Replication studies represent the majority of published nursing literature.
ANS: C
Replication involves reproducing or repeating a study to determine if similar findings will be obtained. Replication is essential
for knowledge development because it (1) establishes the credibility of the findings, (2) extends the generalizability of the
findings over a range of instances and contexts, (3) reduces the number of type I and type II errors, (4) corrects the limitations in
studies’ methodologies, (5) supports theory development, and (6) lessens the acceptance of erroneous results. Some researchers
replicate studies because they agree with the findings and wonder if the findings will hold up in different settings with different
subjects over time. Others want to challenge the findings or interpretations of prior investigators. However, the number of nursing
studies replicated continues to be limited [Show Less]