Introduction to the GRADE tool for rating certainty in evidence and recommendations

Abstract

The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) tool is a systematic approach used to assess the certainty of evidence and strength of recommendations in healthcare guidelines. It emphasizes the importance of considering the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence, as well as values, preferences, and practical considerations when making healthcare decisions. The GRADE methodology aims to enhance transparency, consistency, and rigor in evaluating evidence and informing clinical decision-making. GRADE uses a structured approach to assign a rating of high, moderate, low, or very low certainty to the evidence. Factors affecting certainty—study design, risk of bias, inconsistency, indirectness, imprecision, and publication bias—are considered in rating the certainty or confidence in evidence. The guideline recommendations emanating from applying the GRADE approach are strong or conditional/weak. The strength of a recommendation depends on the balance between the desirable and undesirable effects, the quality of evidence, values and preferences of stakeholders, and resource considerations. The Evidence to Decision (EtD) framework provides a structured approach to making recommendations based on the evidence assessment. This article describes the key components of the GRADE tool, including the factors considered in assessing evidence quality, the process for rating certainty, and the implications for developing recommendations.