Table 2 Meanings of recommendation strengths for the guideline user [1]
Recommendation strength | Definition |
|---|---|
1: Strong recommendation (recommendation) | We are strongly confident that the desirable effect of the intervention (the benefit) surpasses (or, in certain cases, does not surpass) its undesirable effects (adverse effect, burden, cost). From the perspective of the patient, nearly everyone in the given situation would want to proceed with the recommended course of action, while only few individuals would not. |
2: Weak recommendation (suggestion) | We are weakly confident that the desirable effect of the intervention (the benefit) surpasses (or, in certain cases, does not surpass) its undesirable effects (adverse effect, burden, cost). From the perspective of the patient, many in the given situation would want to proceed with the recommended course of action, but many may not want to proceed with the intervention. |