Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

Which resource would be least appropriate for researching potential policy changes?

1. CDC

2. Wikipedia

3. American Diabetes Association

4. WebMD

The correct answer is: Wikipedia

Using Wikipedia as a resource for researching potential policy changes is least appropriate due to its nature as a user-edited platform. While it can provide a general overview of various topics, the reliability and accuracy of the information can vary significantly, as entries may not be rigorously vetted or reflect the most current data or scholarly consensus. In the context of policy research, where precision and credibility are paramount, Wikipedia does not meet the necessary academic standards. In contrast, reputable organizations such as the CDC, the American Diabetes Association, and WebMD are established sources that provide evidence-based information. The CDC offers public health data and guidance that inform policy decisions, while the American Diabetes Association focuses on diabetes-related policies and advocacy, thus serving as a credible resource for health policy changes. WebMD, while primarily a health information site, offers a range of articles that can be useful for understanding health issues, though it is recommended to verify this information with primary sources or scientific literature for policy research.