Developing a research question: A research primer for low- and middle-income countries

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Emergency Medicine
• Health Systems Research

Background:

• Growing demand for emergency care (EC) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) necessitates expanded evidence for clinical and systems interventions.
• Clinicians are vital in identifying and addressing research gaps in resource-limited EC settings.
• Existing research priorities in global EC are categorized into systems-based and clinical care research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize established research priorities for global EC.
• To provide a step-wise approach for developing research questions in EC.
• To offer resources and guidance for EC clinicians in resource-limited settings.

Main Methods:

• Review of established research priorities in global emergency care.
• Guidance on developing research questions using quantitative (PECO formula) and qualitative approaches.
• Inclusion of tips, pitfalls, and resources for clinical researchers.

Main Results:

• Research priorities are divided into systems-based and clinical care research.
• Quantitative research questions can be framed using the PECO formula (Population, Exposure, Comparator, Outcome).
• Qualitative research may benefit from theoretical frameworks and purpose statements.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians can conduct impactful research in resource-limited EC settings.
• Structured approaches and available resources can aid in developing effective research questions.
• This work aims to improve outcomes for patients with acute illness and injury in global EC settings.