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) (NE)
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.
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 aſter 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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