Select a research article that uses a randomized controlled trial focusing on a clinical nursing problem of your choice. Use this research article to address the following questions:

Provide an APA reference of the article including a GCU permalink or working link used to access the article.
Using the “CASP Randomized Controlled Trial Checklist,” (https://casp-uk.net/casp-tools-checklists/randomised-controlled-trial-rct-checklist), evaluate the study. Based on your findings, summarize the critical appraisal of the selected research article.
Do the benefits of the experimental intervention outweigh the harms and costs? Identify and discuss one other ethical consideration applicable to quantitative research studies such as this one.

Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and include at least two references cited using APA format.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

This discussion post requires you to select, analyze, and critically appraise a randomized controlled trial (RCT) related to a clinical nursing problem. Follow these steps to ensure a structured, well-supported, and high-quality response.

Step 1: Choose a Relevant RCT Article

Select a peer-reviewed nursing research article (published within the last 5 years).
Ensure the study is an RCT (not a cohort or observational study).
Access the article using GCU Library or a credible database (PubMed, CINAHL, etc.).

Step 2: Structure Your Initial Discussion Post (200+ Words)

1. APA Reference & Article Link (2-3 Sentences)

Provide a full APA 7 citation of the article, including a GCU permalink or working link.

2. Critical Appraisal Using the CASP Checklist

Summarize key findings from the CASP Randomized Controlled Trial Checklist:
Did the study address a clearly focused issue?
Was the study methodologically sound (randomization, blinding, sample size)?
Are the results valid, reliable, and applicable to nursing practice?
Explain strengths and limitations of the study based on your evaluation.

3. Weighing Benefits vs. Harms and Costs

Discuss whether the intervention’s benefits outweigh its risks and costs.
Consider factors like improved patient outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and side effects.

4. Ethical Considerations in Quantitative Research

Identify one major ethical issue related to RCTs (e.g., informed consent, patient autonomy, confidentiality).
Discuss how researchers ensured ethical compliance in the study.

5. Conclusion (2-3 Sentences)

Summarize the key points from your evaluation.
Reflect on how this research can influence nursing practice.

Step 3: Cite at Least Two Sources in APA Format

Include the selected research article and at least one additional scholarly source.
Use in-text citations and a proper reference list.

Step 4: Respond to Peers (100-150 Words)

Engage in a meaningful discussion by:
Expanding on their appraisal with additional insights.
Comparing your selected RCT study with theirs.
Sharing a related ethical consideration.
Include at least one additional reference in your reply.

Final Step: Review and Submit

Ensure originality (write in your own words).
Check citations for accuracy.
Submit before the deadline.

By following this structured guide, you’ll craft a detailed, high-quality, and well-supported discussion post!

Evaluating a Randomized Controlled Trial on a Clinical Nursing Issue