J Korean Acad Nurs.  2013 Apr;43(2):154-164. 10.4040/jkan.2013.43.2.154.

An Introduction to Logistic Regression: From Basic Concepts to Interpretation with Particular Attention to Nursing Domain

• Park HA

• KMID: 1739479
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4040/jkan.2013.43.2.154

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this article is twofold: 1) introducing logistic regression (LR), a multivariable method for modeling the relationship between multiple independent variables and a categorical dependent variable, and 2) examining use and reporting of LR in the nursing literature.
METHODS
Text books on LR and research articles employing LR as main statistical analysis were reviewed. Twenty-three articles published between 2010 and 2011 in the Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing were analyzed for proper use and reporting of LR models.
RESULTS
Logistic regression from basic concepts such as odds, odds ratio, logit transformation and logistic curve, assumption, fitting, reporting and interpreting to cautions were presented. Substantial shortcomings were found in both use of LR and reporting of results. For many studies, sample size was not sufficiently large to call into question the accuracy of the regression model. Additionally, only one study reported validation analysis.
CONCLUSION
Nursing researchers need to pay greater attention to guidelines concerning the use and reporting of LR models.

Keyword

Logit function; Maximum likelihood estimation; Odds; Odds ratio; Wald test

MeSH Terms

Humans
Logistic Models
*Models, Statistical
Odds Ratio
Publishing/standards
*Research

Figure

• 

  Figure 1 Graph of logistic curve where α=0 and β=1.

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