Examine the survey results downloadable from the link below. Choose one of the items, determine the descriptive statistic that is reported, and indicate what it means. For example, “What is the highest level of education of this group?”

Discussion: Understanding descriptive statistics.

In the hypothetical survey results, there are a number of descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentages. One item that stands out is the question “How often do you exercise each week?”, which provides information on the exercise habits of the survey respondents. Results show that 35 percent of survey respondents only exercise once or less a weeks, 28 percent exercise 1 to 2 times each week, 20 per cent exercise 3 to 4 times weekly, and 17 per cent exercise five times or more aweek.

This item’s descriptive stat is frequency distribution. It shows the percentage or number of respondents for each category. This frequency distribution shows participants’ exercise habits. A large group (35%) of survey respondents exercised less frequently than once per week. It is possible that this indicates a low level of physical activity in the sample. In contrast, 37% reported exercising 3 times or more a day, which could indicate that a subgroup of sample is relatively healthy and active.

Regular exercise has been associated with numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular function, weight management, and mental health (Pedersen & Saltin, 2015). Accordingly, their reported exercise behaviors may be important for overall health. Nurses and other healthcare professionals can use this information to assess patients’ exercise habits, educate them about the benefits of regular physical activity, and provide resources and support to help them establish healthy exercise habits (Edelman, Kudzma, & Mandle, 2018).

In summary, the frequency distribution reported for the item “How often do you exercise each week?” provides important information about the exercise habits of the survey respondents. This information can be used to assess patients’ exercise habits and promote regular physical activity as a means of improving overall health and well-being.

References:

Edelman, C., Kudzma, E., & Mandle, C. (2018). Health Promotion Through the Lifespan, 9th Edition. Elsevier.

Pedersen, B. K., & Saltin, B. (2015). Exercise as medicine – evidence for prescribing exercise as therapy in 26 different chronic diseases. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 25(S3), 1-72. doi:10.1111/sms.12581