Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 70%
Simulated
A charge nurse is discussing evidence-based practice (EBP) and the hierarchy of evidence with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following examples should the nurse provide when discussing Level I evidence?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Systematic review. Systematic reviews are considered Level I evidence in the hierarchy of evidence for evidence-based practice. This is because they involve a comprehensive review and synthesis of multiple studies on a particular topic, providing the highest level of evidence for clinical decision-making. Systematic reviews minimize bias and offer a more reliable overview of the available research. Credible websites (B), expert opinions (C), and qualitative studies (D) are not considered Level I evidence as they do not meet the same rigorous standards of evidence synthesis and critical appraisal as systematic reviews.