FACEM Research and Innovation 2

Question 1

A researcher wants to measure the diagnostic accuracy of a new bedside test. Which study design is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Cross-sectional study with a reference standard

Answer

Diagnostic accuracy studies use a cross-sectional design comparing the index test to a reference standard in the same population.

Question 2

Which statistical measure best describes the spread of a non-normally distributed dataset?

Accepted Answer

Median and interquartile range

Answer

The median and interquartile range are robust measures of central tendency and spread for skewed or non-normal data.

Question 3

In a clinical trial, allocation concealment refers to:

Accepted Answer

Preventing foreknowledge of the next assignment before enrolment

Answer

Allocation concealment prevents selection bias by ensuring the next assignment is unknown until after a patient is enrolled.

Question 4

A systematic review finds significant heterogeneity (I² = 75%) among included studies. The most appropriate response is to:

Accepted Answer

Explore sources of heterogeneity and use a random-effects model

Answer

High heterogeneity warrants exploration of its sources and use of a random-effects model, which accounts for between-study variance.

Question 5

Which ethical principle underpins the requirement for participants to be informed before consenting to research?

Accepted Answer

Respect for autonomy

Answer

Respect for autonomy requires that individuals make free, informed decisions, which is the basis of informed consent.

(FACEM) Fellowship of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine Practice Test