NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

What does a meta-analysis do?

1. Describes unique patient conditions

2. Randomizes patient groups

3. Combines results from multiple studies for a statistical conclusion

4. Compares costs of interventions

The correct answer is: Combines results from multiple studies for a statistical conclusion

A meta-analysis is a statistical technique used to combine results from multiple studies on a particular topic to draw an overall conclusion. It helps to increase the statistical power of the analysis by pooling data from different studies, providing a more reliable and precise estimate of the true effect of an intervention or outcome. This method allows researchers and clinicians to make more informed decisions based on a comprehensive analysis of existing evidence. Option A, describing unique patient conditions, is not the primary purpose of a meta-analysis. Instead, a meta-analysis focuses on synthesizing data across studies to derive a conclusion applicable to a broader population. Option B, randomizing patient groups, is a method used in clinical trials to minimize bias and ensure that the results are valid and reliable. Meta-analysis, on the other hand, is a statistical technique applied after studies have been conducted to combine their results. Option D, comparing the costs of interventions, is not the main objective of a meta-analysis. While cost-effectiveness analysis is an important aspect of healthcare decision-making, it is not the primary function of a meta-analysis, which is to combine and analyze data from multiple studies.