GRADE framework adherence
We describe the use of the GRADE framework in the included CPGs. GRADE
can be used to define the CPG questions, develop SR, identify the
importance of the outcomes, prepare evidence profile, summary of
findings (SoF), assess the overall quality of the evidence and decide on
the direction and strength of the recommendation. Currently, there is
not a validated tool to assess adherence to GRADE. We defined an
appropriate use of GRADE framework if the CPGs reported the following
items: (7-10)
- Questions with explicit statement for each PICO element.
- SoF with the following characteristics: Number of studies, number of
participants, risk of bias domains, relative effect, absolute effect
and certainty of the evidence.
- Explicit reference to all GRADE domains:
- Rating down criteria : Risk of bias, imprecision,
indirectness, inconsistency and publication bias.
- Rating up criteria : Large magnitude of an effect,
Dose-response gradient and effect of plausible residual confounding.