A nurse is attending a staff training on evidence-based practice. Match the components of PICO using the question “Does the use of guided imagery compared with standard care affect the postoperative pain in hospitalized adolescents?

In research studies, correctly identifying the type of variable is crucial to ensure that the design, data collection, and analysis are appropriately structured to answer the research question. Therefore, it is essential to determine which variable is being manipulated or measured in response to the others. This helps in distinguishing independent from dependent variables and understanding the nature of the research.

Rationale for correct answer:

C. A dependent variable is the outcome or response that is measured in a study. In this case, blood pressure is what the researcher is observing or measuring to determine the effect of the independent variables (exercise and sleep).

Rationale for incorrect answers:

A. Exploratory: This refers to a type of research design. Exploratory research is conducted when the problem is not clearly defined, and the goal is to gather preliminary data or insights.

B. Correlational: This is also a type of study design. A correlational study assesses the strength and direction of the relationship between variables, but it does not involve manipulation of variables like in an experimental or quasi-experimental study.

D. An independent variable is the one that is manipulated or categorized to determine its effect on the dependent variable. In this case, exercise and sleep are the independent variables.

Take home points:

• The dependent variable is the outcome that is being measured or observed to determine the impact of changes in the independent variable.
• Understanding the distinction between types of variables and study designs is essential for designing valid studies and interpreting results accurately.

The PICO format is a widely used tool in evidence-based practice (EBP) to develop focused clinical questions that guide the search for relevant evidence. PICO stands for: P = Population or Problem, I = Intervention, C = Comparison, O = Outcome.

Rationale for correct answer:

C. Use of inhalers: This is the “O” (Outcome). The goal of the project is to determine whether the use of inhalers is affected by the type of education provided. It is the measurable result that reflects the effectiveness of the interventions.

Rationale for incorrect answer:

A. Electronic gaming education: This is the “I” (Intervention). It is the new or experimental strategy being evaluated to see if it improves inhaler use compared to the standard approach.

B. Educational book: This is the “C” (Comparison). The educational book is the alternative to the main intervention and is used as a point of comparison to the electronic gaming module.

D. Electronic gaming education: This is the “I” (Intervention). It is the new or experimental strategy being evaluated to see if it improves inhaler use compared to the standard approach.

Take home points:

• The "Outcome" in a PICO question refers to the measurable result or effect the researchers hope to evaluate.
• Understanding how to break down a clinical question using the PICO framework strengthens evidence-based practice