PICOT is a framework for formulating a successful research question. It helps to narrow and focus your research question by clearly defining the following parts of your research question:
To learn more, visit the National Athletic Trainers' Association's training on using Evidence-Based Practice in Athletic Training.
Example from NATA's Evidence-Based Practice in Athletic Training:
Patient | Post-lateral ankle sprain, athlete |
Intervention | Ultrasound |
Comparison | Electrical stimulation |
Outcome |
Short-term goal: Decrease swelling, increase range of motion/tissue extensibility Lont-term goal: Return to play |
Time | 6 weeks |
References:
1. NATA. Evidence-based practice in Athletic Training. National Athletic Trainers' Association. Available from: http://members.nata.org/quizcenter/courses/ebp-level1-part1/basic.cfm