Independent and dependent variables.
Post your research question and describe the independent and dependent variables. Then, identify the level of measurement of both your independent and dependent variables. Provide a brief rationale for your classification of each variable. Be specific. Explain considerations of analyzing data related to each variable based on its level of measurement. Be sure to include any advantages or challenges that you might encounter in your statistical analysis of each variable and explain why.
Sample Answer
Research Question: Does implementing a nurse-led medication education program improve medication adherence among elderly patients with heart failure?
Variables:
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Independent Variable: Nurse-led medication education program (categorical)
- This variable has two categories: participation (exposed to the program) or non-participation (not exposed to the program).
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Dependent Variable: Medication adherence (ordinal)
- Medication adherence can be measured on a scale, such as:
- High adherence (80% or more medication doses taken as prescribed)
- Medium adherence (50-79% of doses taken)
- Medication adherence can be measured on a scale, such as: