Quality of Evidence
(MS)
Minimal Standards are applied to recommendations that are based on rigorous
empirical evidence (eg, randomized controlled trials) and/or overwhelming
clinical consensus. Minimal standards apply more than 95% of the time (ie, in
almost all cases).
(CG)
Clinical Guidelines are applied to recommendations that are based on strong
empirical evidence (eg, non-randomized controlled trials) and/or strong clinical
consensus. Clinical guidelines apply approximately 75% of the time (ie, in most
cases).
(OP)
Option is applied to recommendations that are acceptable based on emerging
empirical evidence (eg, uncontrolled trials or case series/reports) or clinical
opinion, but lack strong empirical evidence and/or strong clinical consensus.
(NE)
Not Endorsed is applied to practices that are known to be ineffective or
contraindicated.
Abbreviations
DD, dysthymic disorder; MDD, major depressive disorder; SSRI, selective serotonin reuptake
inhibitor
Source
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Practice Parameter for the Assessment
and Treatment of Children and Adolescents With Depressive Disorders. J Am Acad Child Adolesc
Psychiatry 2007;46(11):1503-1526.
Disclaimer
This Guideline attempts to define principles of practice that should produce high-quality patient care. It focuses on
the needs of primary care practice, but also is applicable to providers at all levels.
This Guideline should not be considered exclusive of other methods of care reasonably directed at obtaining the same
results. The ultimate judgment concerning the propriety of any course of conduct must be made by the clinician after
consideration of each individual patient situation.
Neither IGC, the medical associations, nor the authors endorse any product or service associated with the distributor
of this clinical reference tool.
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