PECODR Research Question Framework 

The PECODR framework is a research question framework that provides a structured approach for developing focused and answerable research questions in healthcare and other fields. PECODR stands for Population, Exposure, Comparison, Outcome, Design, and Research Question. Each framework component represents a critical element to consider when formulating a research question. 

1. Population: The population component identifies the specific group or population of interest for the research question. It defines the individuals or entities that will be included in the study. For example, the population could be patients with a particular medical condition, healthcare providers, or a specific demographic group. 

2. Exposure: The exposure component refers to the main factor or intervention that is being investigated in the research question. It identifies the variable or intervention that is hypothesized to affect the outcome of interest. This could be a particular treatment, intervention, risk factor, or exposure to a specific condition. 

3. Comparison: The comparison component involves identifying the reference group or alternative intervention that will be compared to the exposure of interest. It helps to establish the baseline against which the effects of the exposure can be evaluated. The comparison can be a different treatment, placebo, no intervention, or an alternative condition. 

4. Outcome: The outcome component defines the specific outcome or measure of interest that will be assessed in the research question. It describes the variable or endpoint the study aims to measure or observe. This could be a clinical outcome, patient-reported outcome, adverse event, or any other measurable outcome. 

5. Design: The design component refers to the type of study design that will be employed to answer the research question. It determines the approach and methodology of the study, such as randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, or qualitative research methods. 

6. Research question: The research question component represents the final step in the PECODR framework, where all the elements discussed above are combined to form a clear and focused research question. The research question should be concise and specific and address a gap in knowledge or a clinical problem. 

By utilizing the PECODR framework, researchers can develop research questions that are well-structured, focused, and answerable. This systematic review approach helps ensure that the research question is aligned with the study objectives, guides the selection of appropriate study designs and methods, and facilitates the interpretation and application of research findings in clinical practice or policy-making. 

References 

Dawes, Martin, et al. “The identification of clinically important elements within medical journal abstracts: Patient–Population–Problem, Exposure–Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Duration and Results (PECODR).” Informatics in Primary care 15.1 (2007).