how does a double blind experiment work

HESI LPN

LPN Nutrition Practice Test

1. How does a double-blind experiment work?

A. Both subject groups take turns receiving each treatment.
B. Neither subjects nor researchers know which subjects are in the control or experimental group.
C. Neither group of subjects knows whether they are in the control or experimental group, but the researchers do not know.
D. Both subject groups know whether they are in the control or experimental group, but the researchers do not know.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. In a double-blind experiment, neither the subjects nor the researchers know which subjects are in the control or experimental group. This helps to eliminate bias and ensure that the results are more objective. Choice A is incorrect as in a double-blind experiment, subjects do not take turns receiving each treatment; it is about masking the treatment allocation. Choice C is incorrect because it implies that the researchers are aware of the group allocation, which goes against the principle of blinding in a double-blind study. Choice D is incorrect as both subject groups should not know whether they are in the control or experimental group to maintain the blindness of the study.

2. Why is peer review important in scientific research?

A. To expedite publication of results.
B. To facilitate the replication of studies.
C. To verify the accuracy and validity of research findings.
D. To enhance the credibility of the research.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Peer review is crucial in scientific research to verify the accuracy and validity of research findings. By subjecting research papers to evaluation by experts in the field, peer review ensures that the study's methods, results, and conclusions are robust and reliable. This process helps to maintain high standards of quality in scientific publications, providing credibility to the research. Choices A and D are incorrect because the primary purpose of peer review is not to expedite publication or solely enhance credibility; its core function is to validate the research's accuracy and validity. Choice B, while beneficial, is not the primary reason for peer review; replication is a byproduct of the rigorous evaluation of research methods and findings.

3. What is the first-line treatment for a child with a bacterial ear infection?

A. Intravenous antibiotics
B. Oral antibiotics
C. Nasal decongestants
D. Antihistamines

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Oral antibiotics. Oral antibiotics are the first-line treatment for bacterial ear infections in children as they effectively target the infection at the source and help alleviate symptoms. Intravenous antibiotics (Choice A) are typically reserved for severe cases where oral antibiotics are not sufficient. Nasal decongestants (Choice C) and antihistamines (Choice D) are not the primary treatments for bacterial ear infections. Nasal decongestants are used for nasal congestion, and antihistamines are used for allergies. However, these medications do not directly address the bacterial infection in the ear, unlike oral antibiotics.

4. How should a healthcare professional manage a child with a newly inserted gastrostomy tube?

A. Monitor for signs of infection
B. Increase the child's fluid intake
C. Restrict all oral intake
D. Use only sterile equipment for feedings

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Monitoring for signs of infection at the gastrostomy site is crucial for ensuring proper care and preventing complications. This involves observing for redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage around the insertion site. Increasing the child's fluid intake (Choice B) may be beneficial for hydration but is not specifically related to managing a newly inserted gastrostomy tube. Restricting all oral intake (Choice C) is not necessary as long as the healthcare professional follows the recommended guidelines for feeding. While using sterile equipment for feedings (Choice D) is important, monitoring for signs of infection takes precedence in the immediate post-insertion period.

5. What is a key aspect of managing a child with eczema?

A. Daily baths with soap
B. Regular use of emollients and moisturizers
C. High-protein diet
D. Frequent exposure to sunlight

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Regular use of emollients and moisturizers is a key aspect of managing eczema in children. Emollients help maintain skin hydration and reduce irritation, which are crucial in managing eczema symptoms. Daily baths with soap can actually worsen eczema by drying out the skin further. A high-protein diet and frequent exposure to sunlight are not directly related to managing eczema and may not have a significant impact on the condition.