Objectives: Compare different types of variables.Describe the influence “levels of evidence” have on practice changes Question1)Compare independent variables, dependent variables, and extraneous varia

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Introduction:
In this assignment, we will be discussing two important topics from the medical field: variables and evidence-based practice. Variables are an essential element of research, and researchers attempt to control extraneous variables to improve the accuracy of their research findings. Evidence-based practice is a crucial approach to healthcare that emphasizes the use of the best available evidence to make informed decisions about patient care. Let us explore these topics in more detail.

Question 1:
In research studies, variables are an essential aspect that researchers measure and manipulate to test their hypotheses. Independent variables are the variables that researchers manipulate to observe their effects on dependent variables. Dependent variables are the outcome variables that researchers measure to evaluate the effects of independent variables. Extraneous variables are the variables that researchers cannot control, and they may affect the outcome of the study.

To control extraneous variables, researchers attempt to use two primary methods: experimental design and statistical control. Experimental design involves creating rigorous control groups to reduce the impact of external variables on the study. Statistical control involves using statistical models to identify and remove the effects of extraneous variables.

According to a peer-reviewed study by Hollingshead et al. (2019), researchers can use experimental designs to control the effect of extraneous variables in a study. They suggest the use of randomized control trials in medical research to minimize extraneous variables’ effects. In another study by Alosaimi et al. (2021), statistical analysis was done to control for a confounding variable that was identified to affect the study results.

Question 2:
The seven levels of evidence are a hierarchy of evidence-based practice that grades the quality of the evidence based on scientific research methodology. These levels of evidence assist healthcare professionals in assessing the strength of available evidence and deciding which evidence is most applicable to their patient care needs.

The seven levels of evidence are:
1. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials (RCTs)
2. Individual RCTs with a narrow confidence interval
3. Individual RCTs with a wide confidence interval
4. Case-control and cohort studies
5. Case series and case reports
6. Expert opinions with reasoning or physiology-based rationale
7. Personal opinion based on personal experience

For example, based on level 1 evidence, a practice change that may result from using meta-analyses and systematic reviews of RCTs is the use of probiotics in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea, according to a study by Bouza et al. (2020). Additionally, based on level 5 evidence, a practice change can be to investigate further into the use of intravenous Vitamin C in sepsis patients by reading case series and case reports, as suggested in a study by Seifert et al. (2020).

Conclusion:
In conclusion, variables and evidence-based practice are two important concepts in the medical field. Controlling extraneous variables is a crucial aspect of research, and researchers attempt to control extraneous variables using statistical or experimental methods. Meanwhile, the seven levels of evidence are a vital approach to evidence-based practice, and they help healthcare professionals assess the strength of available evidence and make informed decisions about patient care.