ObjectiveTo systematically review the quality of evidence-based guidelines (EBGs) on medication therapy for neonatal bacterial meningitis, and compare differences and similarities of the drugs recommended, in order to provide references for clinical application.
MethodsDatabases such as the TRIP, PubMed, CNKI, VIP, WanFang, CBM, National Guideline Clearinghouse and Guidelines International Network were searched to collect evidence-based guidelines on medication therapy for neonatal bacterial meningitis. Methodological quality of included studies was assessed according to the AGREE Ⅱ instrument, and the differences and similarities among recommendations were compared.
ResultsA total of 4 EBGs were included. Among them, one guideline was developed by the America and three guidelines were by the UK. Only one guideline was developed specially for neonates, while the rest were for neonates and children of different ages. According to the AGREE Ⅱ instrument, "scope and purpose", "stakeholder involvement", "rigor of development", "clarity and presentation", "applicability" and "editorial independence" were scored more than 60%. The recommendations of different guidelines were basically the same, only with conflicts in some areas.
ConclusionAlthough most guidelines concerning neonatal bacterial meningitis are of high quality, grading levels of evidence and strength of recommendation should be unified.
