New developments in clinical practice guidelines

Abstract

During the last four years revised clinical practice guidelines on nutritional support have been published by the major nutritional societies worldwide. The aim of these guidelines is to promote the safe and effective care of patients who need nutritional support as part of their overall management. All guidelines are based on the available “best evidence” in order to assist nutrition professionals in making decisions on the appropriate and cost-effective nutritional practices. Although such guidelines are a useful tool to patient management, they are meant to support, not replace, the clinical judgment and experience of nutrition professionals.