CBIS Research Methods and Evidence 2

Question 1

In a randomized controlled trial (RCT) studying TBI rehabilitation, what is the PRIMARY purpose of the control group?

Accepted Answer

To provide a comparison baseline against which treatment effects are measured

Answer

The control group provides a baseline comparison so researchers can attribute observed changes to the treatment rather than natural recovery or other factors.

Question 2

Which statistical measure best describes the spread of individual data points around the mean in a TBI outcome study?

Accepted Answer

Standard deviation

Answer

Standard deviation quantifies the average distance of individual data points from the mean, reflecting variability within the dataset.

Question 3

A CBIS researcher finds a p-value of 0.03 in a study on cognitive rehabilitation. What does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

There is a 3% probability of observing these results if the null hypothesis were true

Answer

A p-value of 0.03 means there is a 3% probability of obtaining the observed results (or more extreme) assuming the null hypothesis is true.

Question 4

Which study design is MOST appropriate for determining the incidence of post-TBI depression in a defined population over 12 months?

Accepted Answer

Prospective cohort study

Answer

A prospective cohort study follows a defined population forward in time, allowing calculation of new case incidence rates.

Question 5

In TBI research, 'blinding' of outcome assessors is intended to reduce which type of bias?

Accepted Answer

Detection bias

Answer

Detection (or ascertainment) bias occurs when knowledge of treatment allocation influences how outcomes are measured; blinding assessors prevents this.

(CBIS) Certified Brain Injury Specialist Practice Test

(CBIS) Certified Brain Injury Specialist Practice Test

CBIS Research Methods and Evidence 2