Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

What analysis measures the effectiveness of an intervention rather than the monetary savings?

1. A cost-benefit analysis

2. An efficacy study

3. A product evaluation

4. A cost-effective analysis

The correct answer is: A cost-effective analysis

The correct choice measures the effectiveness of an intervention in relation to its costs, focusing on the outcomes achieved rather than solely on monetary savings. This type of analysis looks at how beneficial an intervention is compared to its expenses, allowing healthcare providers to assess whether the outcomes justify the costs involved. In contrast, a cost-benefit analysis quantifies both the costs and benefits in monetary terms, evaluating whether the financial gains exceed the financial outlay, which is not the main concern here. An efficacy study specifically focuses on how well an intervention works in ideal conditions rather than comparing costs and effectiveness. A product evaluation often involves assessing the performance and quality of a particular product rather than analyzing interventions in a cost-effectiveness context. Therefore, the focus of measuring the effectiveness of interventions aligns best with a cost-effective analysis.