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The Clinical Inquiry Process Resource Guide

The goal of this guide is to provide nurses a resource to understand and carryout the steps of performing an evidence-based practice (EBP) project.

The Importance of Clinical Practice Guidelines and Appraisal

Clinical Practice Guidelines

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are evidence-based recommendations designed to assist healthcare professionals in providing the most appropriate care for specific clinical situations. These guidelines help practitioners and patients make informed decisions by offering guidance on the best treatment options for particular health conditions.

CPGs act as a link between research findings and clinical practice, translating complex scientific evidence into actionable advice for healthcare providers. Their goal is to enhance the quality of care, minimize unnecessary variations in practice, and promote the efficient use of healthcare resources.

In contrast to protocols or pathways, guidelines typically encourage the use of clinical judgment and allow for adjustments based on individual patient needs, rather than enforcing strict, one-size-fits-all rules.

The Key Characteristics of a Clinical Practice Guideline:

  • Evidence-based recommendations: CPGs synthesize the best available research evidence, ranging from randomized controlled trials to expert consensus when research is limited.
  • Systematically developed: They follow structured development processes involving literature reviews, evidence appraisal, and formal consensus methods. The best CPG's have systematic reviews are the underlying basis of the evidence that is utilized to make practice recommendations. 
  • Clinical focus: Guidelines address specific clinical questions relevant to patient care, diagnosis, treatment, or management of conditions.
  • Decision support tools: They provide actionable recommendations that can be applied in clinical settings.
  • Developed by authoritative bodies: Usually created by professional societies, government agencies, or healthcare organizations (e.g., American Heart Association, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, World Health Organization).

Appraising Practice Guidelines

Practice guidelines are publications that are intended to guide patient care and provide best practices.  Most practice guidelines are based on a systematic review of the evidence and assess the interventions benefits and adverse effects of alternative interventions.