An extension of the RIGHT statement for introductions and interpretations of clinical practice guidelines: RIGHT for INT

Abstract

Objective The purpose of the extension of the RIGHT Statement for INTroductions and INTerpretations of Clinical Practice Guidelines (RIGHT for INT) is to promote the development of comprehensive and clear articles that introduce and interpret clinical practice guidelines. Methods The RIGHT for INT checklist was developed following methods recommended by the EQUATOR Network. The development process included three stages. In the first stage, a multidisciplinary team of experts was recruited by email and WeChat and further divided into three groups (a steering group, a consensus group, and a secretariat group); in the second stage, the initial items were collected by literature review and brainstorming; and in the third stage, the final items were formed through a Delphi survey and expert consultation. Results A total of 40 initial items were collected through literature review and brainstorming. A final checklist of 27 items was formed after the Delphi survey and expert consultation. The RIGHT for INT checklist contains items on the following 10 topics: title, abstract, background of guideline interpretation, background of guideline development, guideline development methodology, recommendations, strengths, and limitations, implications for local guidelines and clinical research, dissemination and implementation, and reporting quality. Conclusion The RIGHT for INT checklist provides guidance for guideline interpreters on how to introduce and interpret clinical practice guidelines in a scientific and comprehensive manner.