1. The overall objective(s) of the guideline should be specifically described.

2. The clinical question(s) covered by the guideline should be specifically described.

3. The patients to whom the guideline is meant to apply should be specifically described.

4. The guideline development group should include individuals from all the relevant professional groups.

5. The patients' views and preferences should be sought.

6. The target users of the guideline should be clearly defined.

7. The guideline should be piloted among end users.

8. Systematic methods should be used to search for evidence.

9. The criteria for selecting the evidence should be clearly described.

10. The methods used for formulating the recommendations should be clearly described.

11. The health benefits, side effects and risks should be considered in formulating the recommendations.

12. There should be an explicit link between the recommendations and the supporting evidence.

13. The guideline should be externally reviewed by experts prior to publication.

14. A procedure for updating the guideline should be provided.

15. The recommendations should be specific and unambiguous.

16. The different options for diagnosis and/or treatment of the condition should be clearly presented.

17. Key recommendations should be easily identifiable.

18. The guideline should be supported with tools for application.

19. The potential organisational barriers in applying the recommendations should be discussed.

20. The potential cost implications of applying the recommendations should be considered.

21. The guideline should presents key review criteria for monitoring and audit purposes

22. The guideline should be editorially independent from the funding body.

23. Conflicts of interest of guideline development members should be recorded.