How are "clinical guidelines" defined in nurse practitioner practice?

In nurse practitioner practice, clinical guidelines are defined as recommendations designed to help healthcare providers make decisions about appropriate healthcare for specific clinical circumstances. These guidelines are evidence-based and established through comprehensive research, expert consensus, and clinical trials. They serve as a tool for clinicians to support decision-making processes, aiming to improve patient outcomes and standardize care across various healthcare settings. By following these guidelines, nurse practitioners can ensure that they are providing care that is in line with the latest advancements and best practices in medicine.

The focus of clinical guidelines is not to enforce mandatory regulations that must be followed without exception, nor are they simply suggestions based on personal or patient preferences. Additionally, while they may inform various aspects of healthcare including hospital policies, they are primarily centered on clinical practice and patient care rather than administrative standards.