From our analysis of the research, we propose a revised, evidence-based model of the steps of PI.
However, this finding is no surprise, because the classification has been designed 4 "to develop a revised evidence-based classification that would better reflect clinical severity".
The revised evidence hierarchy is now widely used and provides a common standard against which to initially judge the likelihood of bias in individual studies evaluating interventional, diagnostic accuracy, prognostic, aetiologic or screening topics.
TM instigated the revision of the original NHMRC evidence hierarchy, co-developed the revised evidence hierarchy, wrote the explanatory notes and glossary, drafted the manuscript, and incorporated the feedback received on both the hierarchy and the manuscript.
RT co-developed the revised evidence hierarchy and contributed to the development of the manuscript.
The impact of ethics on the hierarchy of study designs was acknowledged in the revised evidence hierarchy.
In the accompanying documentation to the revised evidence hierarchy, suggestions have been made as to the appropriate checklists for a formal critical appraisal of studies addressing the different types of research question [ 4].
Studies and study results can initially be ranked by study design (evidence level) using the revised evidence hierarchy, and then be further ranked within each evidence level with the use of appropriate and validated quality appraisal checklists.
AW conducted the review of international frameworks assessing non-randomised or non-interventional evidence (in conjunction with Dr Kristina Coleman and Dr Sarah Norris), co-developed the revised evidence hierarchy, and contributed to the development of the manuscript.
Based on these studies, the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer/National Society of Oral Oncology (MASCC/ISOO) recently revised evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for oral mucositis care (Table 1).
Each of the six key factors considered integral to a revised NHMRC evidence hierarchy were adopted.
