Table 1.

Domains and Items of the AGREE Instrument

AGREE Domain	AGREE Item
Scope and purpose	The overall objective of the guideline is specifically described
	The clinical question covered by the guideline is specifically described
	The patients to whom the guideline is meant to apply are specifically described
Stakeholder involvement	The guideline development group includes individuals from all relevant professional groups
	The patients’ view and preferences have been sought
	The target users of the guideline are clearly defined
	The guideline has been piloted among target users
Rigour of development	Systematic methods were used to search for evidence
	The criteria for selection of the evidence are clearly described
	The methods used for formulating recommendations are clearly described
	The health benefits, side effects and risks have been considered in formulating the recommendations
	There is an explicit link between recommendations and supporting evidence
	The guideline has been externally reviewed by experts prior to its publication
	A procedure for updating the guideline is provided
Clarity and presentation	The recommendations are specific and unambiguous
	The different options for the management of the condition are clearly presented
	Key recommendations are easily identifiable
	The guideline is supported with tools for application
Applicability	The potential organizational barriers in applying the recommendations have been discussed
	The potential cost implications of applying the recommendations have been considered
	The guideline presents a key review criteria for monitoring and/or audit purposes
Editorial independence	The guideline is editorially independent from the funding body
	Conflicts of interest of guideline development members have been recorded