Table 1 Items and domains of the AGREE II instrument^a

1

The overall objective(s) of the guideline is (are) specifically described.

Scope and Purpose

2

The health question(s) covered by the guideline is (are) specifically described.

3

The population (patients, public, etc.) to whom the guideline is meant to apply is specifically described.

4

The guideline development group includes individuals from all relevant professional groups.

Stakeholder Involvement

5

The views and preferences of the target population (patients, public, etc.) have been sought.

6

The target users of the guideline are clearly defined.

7

Systematic methods were used to search for evidence.

Rigour of Development

8

The criteria for selecting the evidence are clearly described.

9

The strengths and limitations of the body of evidence are clearly described.

10

The methods for formulating the recommendations are clearly described.

11

The health benefits, side effects, and risks have been considered in formulating the recommendations.

12

There is an explicit link between the recommendations and the supporting evidence.

13

The guideline has been externally reviewed by experts prior to its publication.

14

A procedure for updating the guideline is provided.

15

The recommendations are specific and unambiguous.

Clarity of Presentation

16

The different options for management of the condition or health issue are clearly presented.

17

Key recommendations are easily identifiable.

18

The guideline describes facilitators and barriers to its application.

Applicability

19

The guideline provides advice and/or tools on how the recommendations can be put into practice.

20

The potential resource implications of applying the recommendations have been considered.

21

The guideline presents monitoring and/or auditing criteria.

22

The views of the funding body have not influenced the content of the guideline.

Editorial Independence

23

Competing interests of guideline development group members have been recorded and addressed.