University of Southern California Health & Medical Meta Analysis Research Paper

Description

Meta-Analysis Paper

Meta-analysis is often used  in research to support conclusions with aggregate statistical power, rather than attempting to rely on single studies to support outcomes. Read the following article: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3049418/  (Links to an external site.)

After reading about the pros and cons of meta-analysis processes, imagine that the hospital you work for has assigned you to research the incidence of fractured collarbones in children. Because you cannot find one definitive, significant study, you decide to review a number of small studies where the presence of a fractured collarbone is indicated but not significant.

In 3 to 4 pages, describe how you would glean relevant information from the small studies. What information is important to include in your final analysis? Is the meta-analysis you performed relevant, valid, and appropriate to examine the problem? Why or why not? Discuss the potential biases present in the meta-analysis you conducted.