Two Questions About the Design of Cluster Randomized Trials: A Tutorial.

ABSTRACT: This is a short tutorial on two key questions that pertain to cluster randomized trials (CRTs): 1) Should I perform a CRT? and 2) If so, how do I derive the sample size? In summary, a CRT is the best option when you "must" (e.g., the intervention can only be administered to a group) or you "should" (e.g., because of issues such as feasibility and contamination). CRTs are less statistically efficient and usually more logistically complex than individually randomized trials, and so reviewing the rationale for their use is critical. The most straightforward approach to the sample size calculation is to first perform the calculation as if the design were randomized at the level of the patient and then to inflate this sample size by multiplying by the "design effect", which quantifies the degre

SUBMITTER: Samsa GP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8009809 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature