Using Appraisal of Guidelines Research and Evaluation to Appraise Nursing Clinical Practice Guidelines in Taiwan and to Compare Them to International Studies

Background: Implementation of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) can reduce medical practice variations and enhance effectiveness. In 2008, the Taiwan Department of Health delegated the development of CPGs on six health topics. By February 2010, these CPGs had been completed. Methods: The Appraisal of Guidelines Research and Evaluation (AGREE) instrument was used to assess the quality of the guidelines. We organized groups to develop CPGs and called on 131 experts with various specialties. Results: The average AGREE scores for the six major domains were 86% (scope and purpose), 63% (stakeholder involvement), 77% (rigor of development), 72% (clarity and presentation), 53% (applicability), and 69% (editorial independence). Conclusion: We recommend the following: (1) opinions from all stakeholders, especially patients, should be considered to improve the content of the guidelines; and (2) health education resources, audit forms, and other tools should be emphasized more in the development of CPGs.