Statistics in veterinary nursing research: what to know before starting the study

Abstract

The perspective that a finished study will return statistically significant results rests on the choice of an adequate sample size and statistical models to make the calculations. Unfortunately, it is not rare that the statistical input into experimental research is often not considered until the results have already been achieved. This is often discouraging since invalid conclusions are frequently taken due to inappropriate statistical preparation. This paper attempts to highlight this knowledge gap by describing some of the statistical considerations that are appropriate when designing a clinical or an epidemiological research study in veterinary nursing, with a keen focus on sample size calculation.