Which of the following is the most appropriate statistical test to compare the mean pain scores between three groups receiving different analgesic protocols?

1. A

   Paired t-test

2. B

   ANOVA

3. C

   Chi-square test

4. D

   Pearson correlation

Appeared in: GMCH Nursing Officer-2025

Explanation

• ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) is the correct parametric statistical test used to compare the means of three or more independent groups.
• The research scenario involves comparing a continuous variable (mean pain scores) across three distinct, independent groups (different analgesic protocols).
• ANOVA assesses whether the observed differences between the group means are statistically significant or simply due to random chance by comparing the variability between groups to the variability within groups.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option A: A Paired t-test is incorrect because it is used to compare the means of two related or dependent groups, not three independent groups.
• Option C: A Chi-square test is incorrect because it is a non-parametric test used for categorical data (e.g., frequencies, proportions) to determine if there is a significant association between two variables.
• Option D: Pearson correlation is incorrect because it does not compare group means. It measures the strength and direction of a linear relationship between two continuous variables.

Related Visual

• Visual 1: Flowchart: A decision tree to guide the selection of the appropriate statistical test. The chart would start with 'Type of Data?', branching to 'Categorical' or 'Continuous', then 'Number of Groups?', and finally 'Independent or Dependent Groups?' to lead the user to the correct test like ANOVA, t-test, or Chi-square.

Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Selection of appropriate statistical tests for comparing group means as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
• Understanding biostatistics is a fundamental skill for nurses to critically appraise research literature, which is the cornerstone of evidence-based practice (EBP).
• Nurses involved in research or quality improvement initiatives must be able to select appropriate statistical tests to analyze data and determine the effectiveness of nursing interventions.
• What if? If the study aimed to compare the mean pain scores of only two groups (e.g., a new analgesic vs. a standard one), the appropriate statistical test would be an independent t-test (also known as an unpaired t-test).

How to Approach the Question

• First, identify the primary goal of the research question, which is to 'compare the mean' of a variable.
• Next, determine the nature of the data being measured. 'Pain scores' are a continuous variable.
• Then, count the number of distinct groups being compared. The question specifies 'three groups'.
• Consider the relationship between the groups. Since they receive different protocols, they are independent groups.
• Finally, review the options to find the statistical test that matches these criteria: comparing means for three or more independent groups. ANOVA is the only test that fits this description.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: Selection of appropriate statistical tests for comparing group means.
• Stem keywords: statistical test, compare, mean pain scores, three groups
• Lead-in keywords: most appropriate

Question ID

Q41s8DU8zP8vuUhejPfHx5

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