Mastering PICO Question Research with CINAHL Database

Mastering PICO Question Research with CINAHL Database

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is PICO?
3. Formulating the PICO Question
4. Example PICO Question
5. Synonyms and Search Strategy
6. Using the CINAHL Database
   1. Accessing the CINAHL Database
   2. Utilizing CINAHL Subject Headings
   3. Searching for Patient Terms
   4. Searching for Intervention Terms
   5. Searching for Comparison or Control Terms
   6. Searching for Outcome Terms
7. Refining and Broadening the Search
8. Compilation and Analysis of Search Results
9. Saving and Managing Searches in EBSCO
10. Conclusion

Researching a PICO Question using the CINAHL Database

In the field of health and medical research, formulating an effective research question is crucial. One commonly used method for developing research questions is the PICO (Patient/Problem, Intervention/Exposure, Comparison/Control, Outcome) framework. This tutorial will guide you through the process of researching a PICO question using the CINAHL database, a valuable resource for health and medical literature.

What is PICO?

Before diving into the research process, let's understand the PICO framework in more detail. PICO is an acronym that stands for the key components of a research question – Patient/Problem, Intervention/Exposure, Comparison/Control, and Outcome. By identifying these components, researchers can structure their queries for a more focused and targeted search.

Formulating the PICO Question

Formulating a well-defined PICO question is the first step in conducting effective research. Each component of the PICO framework should be clearly defined to guide the search process. This involves identifying the specific patient population or problem, the intervention or exposure being studied, the comparison or control group, and the desired outcome.

Example PICO Question

To illustrate the process, let's consider an example PICO question: "In a woman aged over 50 years, does a sedentary lifestyle compared with an active lifestyle result in weight gain?" In this case, the patient population is women aged over 50 years, the intervention is a sedentary lifestyle, the comparison is an active lifestyle, and the outcome is weight gain. This example question will serve as a reference throughout this tutorial.

Synonyms and Search Strategy

To ensure comprehensive results, it's important to consider synonyms and related terms for each component of the PICO question. Keeping track of these synonyms can be facilitated by downloading the "Advanced search strategy template" provided in the tutorial. The template allows researchers to organize and structure their search strategy effectively.

Using the CINAHL Database

The CINAHL database is a widely used resource for health and medical research. It is accessible to all students through the EBSCO subscription. To access the CINAHL database, students can refer to the databases section, either under "Most popular databases" or by searching for it alphabetically. Using CINAHL subject headings is recommended as it simplifies finding relevant literature on the topic.

Searching for Patient Terms

To begin the search process, researchers can input the patient terms from the PICO question into the CINAHL database. In our example, the patient terms are "women over 50". Although it doesn't appear as a main subject heading, it can be searched using keywords. It's also important to search for related terms such as "women" to ensure comprehensive results.

Searching for Intervention Terms

Next, researchers should search for the intervention terms from the PICO question. In our example, the intervention terms are "sedentary lifestyle" and "inactive lifestyle". While "sedentary lifestyle" is not a subject heading, "lifestyle, sedentary" can be used. Similarly, "inactive lifestyle" can be searched as a keyword. Searching with both the intervention terms and their synonyms using the "OR" operator will broaden the search.

Searching for Comparison or Control Terms

The comparison or control terms in the PICO question help establish the context for the research. In our example, the relevant terms are "physically active", "exercise", "regular exercise", and "physical exercise". These terms can be searched using subject headings or keywords, depending on availability. Searching these terms with the "OR" operator will broaden the search.

Searching for Outcome Terms

Finally, researchers should search for outcome terms from the PICO question. In our example, the outcome terms are "weight gain" and "obesity". Both of these terms can be searched using subject headings. Searching these terms with the "OR" operator will broaden the search. Once all components of the PICO question have been searched individually, researchers can combine the search terms using the "AND" operator to narrow down the results.

Refining and Broadening the Search

Throughout the search process, it may be necessary to refine or broaden the search to obtain relevant results. Refining the search involves using additional filters or criteria provided by the database. Broadening the search can be achieved by adding more synonyms or related terms or using variations of the search terms. Balancing refined and broadened searches will yield a comprehensive yet focused set of results.

Compilation and Analysis of Search Results

After completing the search process, researchers should analyze and evaluate the search results. This involves reviewing the relevance and quality of the literature obtained. Researchers can prioritize and select studies that address their research question effectively. Additionally, it is essential to document and cite all sources and references accurately.

Saving and Managing Searches in EBSCO

To avoid re-conducting the search in the future, it is recommended to save and manage searches using the EBSCO account. Saving searches allows researchers to access and review the search results at any time. The tutorial provides additional guidance on how to save searches in the EBSCO interface.

Conclusion

This tutorial has provided a step-by-step guide to researching a PICO question using the CINAHL database. By following the PICO framework and utilizing the features of the CINAHL database, researchers can conduct effective literature searches in the field of health and medical research. Remember to refine and broaden the search as needed and to save and manage searches for future reference. Good luck with your research endeavors!

Highlights:

• The PICO framework is a valuable tool for formulating research questions in health and medical research.
• The CINAHL database is a widely used resource for accessing relevant literature in the field.
• Utilizing the CINAHL subject headings simplifies the process of finding related literature.
• Employing synonyms and refining/broadening the search terms ensures comprehensive results.
• Saving and managing searches in the EBSCO account helps researchers access and review their search results conveniently.

FAQ:

Q: What is the significance of using the PICO framework in research? A: The PICO framework helps researchers structure their research questions effectively, allowing for targeted and focused searches.

Q: Can I access the CINAHL database as a student? A: Yes, the CINAHL database is accessible to students through the EBSCO subscription provided by the institution.

Q: How can I refine my search criteria to obtain relevant results? A: Refining your search can be done by using additional filters or criteria provided by the database, such as publication date or study type.

Q: Is it necessary to save and manage searches in the EBSCO account? A: Saving and managing searches in the EBSCO account is highly recommended to avoid re-conducting searches in the future and to conveniently access and review search results.

Q: Where can I seek further assistance in conducting a PICO search? A: If you require further assistance, booking a consultation with a librarian is recommended. You can schedule an appointment through the provided link in the tutorial.