Fig. 1
From: Guideline-based quality assurance: a conceptual framework for the definition of key elements
a describes the interconnectivity between the key elements and the PICO question as fundamental underpinning to the framework. The quality indicators should be directly linked to the health outcomes of a PICO question and the outcomes considered to generate a recommendation. b and c describe the three-layer approach from construct to tools or instruments to units of measurement based on two examples: quality of life and complications of therapy, leakage of an anastomosis, as health status indicators, respectively