img-description Consensus Recommendation Recommendations

Definition:
Expert opinion (no studies)
Only used in two circumstances: 1.Procedures have virtually no associated harm, are of relatively low cost, and reflect routine clinical care. 2. It pertains to medical interventions that potentially prevent loss of life or limb.

Description:
A Consensus recommendation means that expert opinion supports the guideline recommendation even though there is no available empirical evidence that meets the inclusion criteria.
 
Implications:
Practitioners should be flexible in deciding whether to follow a recommendation classified as Consensus, although they may set boundaries on alternatives. Patient preference should have a substantial influencing role.

Language Stem:
In the absence of reliable evidence, it is the opinion of the work group….