In a study comparing pre-treatment and post-treatment blood pressure in the same 25 patients, the mean difference is 8 mmHg with a standard deviation of the differences being 12 mmHg. Which statistical test is most appropriate?
- A Independent samples t-test
- B Paired t-test ✓
- C Chi-square test
- D One-way ANOVA
Correct answer: B. Paired t-test
Explanation
The paired t-test is used when measurements are taken from the same subjects before and after an intervention, making the observations dependent. The independent samples t-test assumes two separate groups. The key discriminating feature is that each patient serves as their own control, and the analysis uses the mean of the individual differences rather than comparing two group means.
Reference: Methods in Biostatistics, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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