Steps in the Development of Guidelines

The critical importance of this first step is analogous to the importance of the corresponding step in development of a systematic review. The scope must not exceed the capabilities (in time, funding, and expertise) of the group, the topic must not be without evidence (or the guideline wiU lack credibility), and the area must be one requiring attention (or the guidehne will have little value and wiU attract no attention). 

Bruns D , Watine j, Sandberg S, Horvath AR. Evidence-based guidelines in laboratory medicine principles and methods. Clin Chem 2004 50 606-818.) 

The critical issues to be addressed must be identified and distinguished from those that may be considered peripheral or simply beyond the scope that can reasonably be included. Ideally, this process involves a multidisciplinary group, with clinicians, laboratory experts, patients, and likely users of the guidelines. The scope will be affected by the staff (if any) and financial support available to the guideline group. The cost is usually underestimated. 

Determination of Target Group and Establishment of a Multidisciplinary Guideline Development Team 

The intended audience must be identified Is it nurses, general practice physicians, clinical specialty physicians, laboratory specialists, or patients  

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