Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice Flashcards

Which organization publishes the guidelines most directly used to update the OEC curriculum and protocols?

Answer: The National Ski Patrol with input from wilderness and emergency medicine bodies

The National Ski Patrol develops and updates OEC curriculum in collaboration with wilderness and emergency medicine expert advisory committees.

What is 'selection bias' in the context of a research study on mountain rescue techniques?

Answer: Systematic differences between groups caused by non-random participant selection

Selection bias occurs when the method of selecting participants results in a study sample that does not represent the intended population.

An OEC technician encounters conflicting studies on wound irrigation pressure. Which next step best reflects evidence-based practice?

Answer: Search for a systematic review or clinical practice guideline that synthesizes both studies

Systematic reviews and clinical guidelines critically appraise and synthesize multiple studies, providing a more reliable basis for practice than any single study.

What does 'reliability' mean when evaluating an assessment tool used in OEC training simulations?

Answer: The tool produces consistent results when used repeatedly under similar conditions

Reliability refers to the consistency and reproducibility of a measurement tool across repeated administrations or different raters.

In qualitative OEC research, which method involves observing rescuers in their natural environment to understand their decision-making?

Answer: Ethnographic observation

Ethnographic observation involves immersive, naturalistic observation of participants in their real-world setting to capture authentic behaviors and decision processes.

When reviewing an article on OEC hemorrhage control, a technician notes a 'conflict of interest' disclosure from the authors. Why is this important?

Answer: Financial or professional relationships may introduce bias into study design, analysis, or reporting

Conflicts of interest (e.g., author funding from a device manufacturer) can influence study design or interpretation, warranting critical scrutiny of the findings.

What is the purpose of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) in human subjects research relevant to emergency care?

Answer: To review and approve research protocols to protect the rights and welfare of human participants

An IRB independently reviews research protocols to ensure that human subjects are protected from undue risk and that ethical standards are maintained.