This practice management guide does not supersede DoD Policy. It is a guideline only and not a substitute for clinical judgment.

It is based upon the best information available at the time of publication. It is designed to provide information and assist decision making. It should not be interpreted as prescribing an exclusive course of management. It was developed by experts in this field. Variations in practice will inevitably and appropriately occur when clinicians take into account the needs of individual patients, available resources, and limitations unique to an institution or type of practice.

Every healthcare professional making use of this guideline is responsible for evaluating the appropriateness of applying it in the setting of any particular clinical situation.