Methodology for the World Council of Enterostomal Therapists® International Ostomy Guideline third edition

Introduction : The International Ostomy Guideline (IOG) developed by the World Council of Enterostomal Therapists (WCET®) is currently being updated with the newest evidence to produce the third edition. The IOG presents clinical guidance to promote access to holistic stomal care, reduce stoma-associated complications, improve knowledge of health professionals regarding stomal care, and to optimise quality of life of individuals living with a stoma. Methods : The guideline development process is being undertaken by a Guideline Development Panel consisting of representatives of WCET® and its collaborative partner, the International Society of University Colon and Rectal Surgery (ISUCRS). The development methods are underpinned by the Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI) theoretical framework of evidence-based care. The methodology embeds a rigorous process that includes generation of relevant clinical questions, evidence identification, critical appraisal of the research and use of adapted Evidence-to-Decision : frameworks to reach evidence-based recommendations and good practice statements agreed on by an expert panel through a Delphi process. The methods include engagement from international stomal therapists, colorectal surgeons and individuals living with a stoma. The guideline development process addresses the key components of the JBI evidence-based model: global health, evidence generation, evidence synthesis, evidence transfer and evidence implementation. Results : The guideline will present evidence-based recommendations and good practice statements providing practical clinical guidance for the care of individuals who are to undergo, or who have undergone, ostomy surgery. Input from the WCET® Executive Board, WCET® Education Committee, Norma N Gill Foundation® WCET® International Delegates (IDs), the ISUCRS Education Committee, individuals living with an ostomy and broad stakeholder feedback will enhance the guideline recommendations. Conclusion : Developed using a rigorous methodology and with input from international experts and individuals living with a stoma, the WCET® IOG third edition embraces the JBI aim of healthcare that is globally-relevant, feasible, appropriate, meaningful and effective.