It includes: An ordered sequence of steps of care Recommended decision criteria Decisions to be considered Actions to be taken The algorithm is a step-by-step decision tree. Standardized symbols are used to display each step, and arrows connect the numbered boxes indicating the order in which the steps should be followed.[19] Sidebars provide more detailed information to assist in defining and interpreting elements in the boxes. Shape Description Rounded rectangles represent a clinical state or condition Hexagons represent a decision point in the guideline, formulated as a question that can be answered Yes or No Rectangles represent an action in the process of care Ovals represent a link to another section within the guideline Appendix K contains alternative text descriptions of the Algorithm: Management of Dyslipidemia for Cardiovascular Risk Reduction. Algorithm: Management of Dyslipidemia for Cardiovascular Risk Reduction * There are no evidence-based recommendations for patients under age 40 because there is no evidence for the benefit of lipid screening and treatment within this age group. In patients younger than 40 years old interested in pursuing lipid testing and management, shared decision making is recommended to discuss the risks and unknown benefit of pharmacotherapy, with therapeutic lifestyle changes being the primary focus of CVD primary prevention. Suggest regular aerobic activity of any intensity or duration. Although incremental benefit is associated with increased doses of physical activity, lower doses including leisure time activity (i.e., walking, landscaping, washing dishes) are associated with benefit when compared to mostly sedentary behavior. A provider s considerations when recommending physical activity might include a patient s motivation, functional capacity, and physical activity preferences. 