Table 2. Sample predictors as presented in the common data element guidelines.

Recommended predictor	Tier	Standardized question or prompt on data collection platform/form	Possible values	Notes
Sociodemographic data
Bed-net use (reported)	2	Ask: "How often do you use insecticidal (bug resistant) bed nets for the child?" Read out options.	Never/rarely (<1 per week)/sometimes (1–3 times/week)/often (4–6 times/week)/always/unknown	Consider tier 1 for malaria endemic regions, or if variable is otherwise of interest to the study.
Clinical Signs
Circulation/perfusion/hydration
Capillary refill time > 3 seconds (upper limb)	1	Apply pressure to a thumb or finger for 3 seconds to blanch it. Does it take more than 3 seconds to return to original pink color after you let go? (See SOP).	Yes/no	See SOP for details. 3 second cut-off shown to be applicable for all pediatric age groups (8).