What is the dependent variable in this statement of the purpose of a research study? "To examine barriers and aids to maintaining the nutritional health of community-dwelling elderly residents based on their perspectives.".

Choice A rationale:

This question is formulated in a manner that is best answered through a research study. It addresses a cause-and-effect relationship (raising the head of the bed) and its potential impact on an outcome (lower rates of pneumonia). Research can provide empirical evidence to establish or refute this relationship.

Choice B rationale:

The question about removing life support measures without the family's consent for clients with medically futile conditions involves ethical and legal considerations rather than a research study. It pertains to ethical principles and guidelines and may require legal and ethical analysis but may not necessarily involve empirical research.

Choice C rationale:

The question about the first action to take when discovering an unresponsive, non-breathing, and pulseless client is a clinical question that is typically addressed through evidence-based practice guidelines and clinical protocols rather than a research study.

Choice D rationale:

The question about the scope of practice for nurses pulling sheaths from femoral sites following cardiac catheterization is a practice-related question that may involve regulatory and scope of practice guidelines but does not necessarily require a research study.

Choice B rationale:

Before the study methodology is actually implemented. Rationale: Seeking approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) should occur before the study methodology is implemented. IRB approval is necessary to ensure that the study design and procedures meet ethical standards and protect the rights and well-being of research participants. It's a crucial step in the research process and should be obtained before data collection begins.

Choice A rationale:

During the time that the study assumptions are being described. Rationale: While it's important to describe study assumptions during the planning phase, seeking IRB approval is a more critical step that should precede actual data collection.

Choice C rationale:

Just before the findings are disseminated. Rationale: Waiting until just before findings are disseminated is too late to seek IRB approval. IRB approval should be obtained before data collection begins to ensure that the study is conducted ethically.

Choice D rationale:

As soon as a list of potential research problems is identified. Rationale: Seeking IRB approval at the stage of identifying research problems is premature. IRB approval is typically sought when the research design and methodology are well-defined and ready for implementation.