Empirical power and sample size calculations for cluster-randomized and cluster-randomized crossover studies.

ABSTRACT: In recent years, the number of studies using a cluster-randomized design has grown dramatically. In addition, the cluster-randomized crossover design has been touted as a methodological advance that can increase efficiency of cluster-randomized studies in certain situations. While the cluster-randomized crossover trial has become a popular tool, standards of design, analysis, reporting and implementation have not been established for this emergent design. We address one particular aspect of cluster-randomized and cluster-randomized crossover trial design: estimating statistical power. We present a general framework for estimating power via simulation in cluster-randomized studies with or without one or more crossover periods. We have implemented this framework in the clusterPower software

SUBMITTER: Reich NG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3338707 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature