Training session: Using the PICO model to formulate a search question

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Training session Using the PICO model to
formulate a search question

• Jane Willson
• Student ID 06055180
• jane.willson_at_newhamhealth.nhs.uk

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Aims of the session

• By the end of the session, participants will be
  able to
• Identify the key concepts of a search question
• Apply the key elements of a search question to
  the four components of the PICO model

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Formulating a search question why is it so
important?

• Helps you think about your query what exactly
  do you want to find out?
• Narrows a search reduces risk of information
  overload
• More precise searching greater relevance of
  results

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The PICO model

• Patient, Population, Problem
• Intervention
• Comparison
• Outcome

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Identifying the key concepts

• Example search scenario What evidence is there
  to support maggot therapy for the treatment of
  pressure ulcers rather than conventional
  debridement therapies?
• What evidence is there to support maggot therapy
  for the treatment of pressure ulcers rather than
  conventional debridement therapies?

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Using the PICO model

• P Pressure ulcers (problem)
• I Maggot therapy (proposed intervention)
• C Conventional debridement therapies (comparative
  treatment)
• O Wound healing (outcome)

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References

• Booth, A. (2004) Formulating answerable
  questions in Booth, A. and Brice, A.
  Evidence-based practice for information
  professionals a handbook. Facet Publishing. pp.
  61-70
• Nordenstrom, J. (2007) Evidence-based medicine in
  Sherlock Holmes footsteps. Blackwell Publishing.
• Zakowski, L., Seibert, C. and VanEyck, S. (2004)
  Evidence-based medicine answering questions of
  diagnosis. Clinical Medicine Research, 2(1)
  pp. 63-69.