Dependent and Independent variables for the EBP research
During the research process, the author will need to identify the dependent and independent variables that directly controls the results. The Independent variable is the data that needs to be manipulated to ensure changes in the results for inference and data comparison. On the other hand, the dependent variable is the data being measured to help make sense of the research objectives for policy development and decision making.
There are two independent variables in the PICOT question provided. Post-discharge telephone follow-up is the first independent variable, while the second one is no post telephone follow-ups in patients who have been discharged from the hospital. The data provides information on these two independent variables. It is expected that patients who were followed up using telephone calls would fare well compared to those who did not get any telephone follow-up. Furthermore, the variable can be categorized as experimental manipulations, treatment factors, or type of treatment as any change made will directly affect the data being measured and lead to change in the expected outcomes.
On the other hand, the dependent variable is that aspect that gets measured as a result of manipulating the independent variables. From the PICOT question provided, the dependent variable is the readmission rates within the first month of discharge. Following the collection of all data regarding patients being followed up via telephone calls and those not being followed up with the same approach, the researcher will need to get information on the type of complications arising and their severity. Also, data on the number of patients being admitted due to the complications arising will be collected. All these data comprise the dependent variables and will be measured to provide information and help with the decision-making process on whether hospitals need to implement evidence-based practice.