Question

what is the purpose of the two italicized terms in the context of this study? identify the correct description for each item.
randomized
double - blind
answer bank
patients were randomly assigned to either the placebo group or the double - blind group.
patients were randomly chosen to receive the same pill, the placebo pill, or no pill.
the patients did not know that they were participating in a study. patients were randomly assigned to receive either same or a placebo.
the treatment assigned to a patient was unknown to the patient but known to those responsible for assessing the effectiveness of that treatment.
the treatment assigned to a patient was unknown to both the patient and to those responsible for assessing the effectiveness of that treatment.

Explanation:

For "Randomized": In a study, randomization means assigning participants randomly to treatment groups. The option "Patients were randomly assigned to receive either SAMe or a placebo" fits as it describes random assignment to treatment (SAMe or placebo). Other options with incorrect groupings (like placebo and double - blind group which is a design, not a treatment group, or multiple non - standard treatment options) are wrong.

For "Double - blind": Double - blind means neither the patient nor the assessors know the treatment. The option "The treatment assigned to a patient was unknown to both the patient and to those responsible for assessing the effectiveness of that treatment" matches this definition. The option where only the patient is blind (treatment unknown to patient but known to assessors) is single - blind, and the option about patients not knowing they are in a study is not related to double - blind.

Answer:

• Randomized: Patients were randomly assigned to receive either SAMe or a placebo.
• Double - blind: The treatment assigned to a patient was unknown to both the patient and to those responsible for assessing the effectiveness of that treatment.