Decision Rules

Decision Rules are statements that advise how to proceed under specific conditions or combinations of conditions. The statements follow an “if then” pattern whereby actions depend on certain conditions or observations. For example, if it’s raining, then carry an umbrella, or if it’s sunny, then wear sunscreen.

Decision rules are used in the medical field to guide diagnosis and treatment. For example, if a patient has ankle pain, swelling, and bruising, the doctor should order an X-ray.