Here, I'll answer these questions and more. But first, let's examine what a practice guideline is and how it differs from other ways to standardize treatment. Making statements A clinical practice guideline can consist of a single statement or a set of statements. More typically, clinical practice guidelines are issued in sets of statements that relate to a specific condition or patient problem. A set of clinical guidelines, for example, would cover many aspects of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, not just who should have a breast examination.
Guidelines cover both medical and nursing care.
One strength of clinical practice guidelines, whether a single statement or a set of statements, is that they're supported by scientific evidence, not tradition or intuition. This makes for better, more consistent patient care. What's more, patients and families benefit from the patient-teaching information that accompanies clinical guidelines. This information not only allows patients to become informed consumers, but it also helps them to participate more fully in the decisions related to their care. It also encourages families to get involved with these decisions.