Table 1. Guidance on the evidence synthesis process in guideline development from IOM, AGREE II, and GIN.

IOM	AGREE II	GIN
"Statements that include recommendations, intended to optimize patient care that are informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and harms of alternative care options.”	Domain 3: Rigor of Development 7. Systematic methods were used to search for evidence. 8. The criteria for selecting the evidence are clearly described. 9. The strengths and limitations of the body of evidence 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.	6. Evidence Reviews Guideline developers should use systematic evidence review methods to identify and evaluate evidence related to the guideline topic.