Evidence-based practice and research utilisation: Perceived research knowledge, attitudes, practices and barriers among Australian paediatric occupational therapists
Journal
Australian Occupational Therapy Journal
Journal Volume
58
Journal Issue
3
Pages
178-186
Date Issued
2011
Author(s)
Abstract
Background/aim: Evidence-based practice (EBP) and research utilisation (RU) are promoted as ways for clients to receive the best level of care. However, limited research has evaluated the use of these approaches by occupational therapists. This study investigated the knowledge, attitudes, practices of and barriers to EBP and RU of a group of paediatric occupational therapists from Australia. Methods: Questionnaires were received from 138 participants (response rate 46%) who completed the Research Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Research Survey, the Edmonton Research Orientation Survey and the Barriers to Research Utilisation Scale. Results: The participants held positive attitudes towards research, and were willing to access new information to guide practice approaches. However, participants were less confident in their research knowledge and practices and implemented research findings into clinical practice. Multiple barriers to RU were perceived, particularly associated with the presentation and accessibility of research. Participants reported limited engagement in conducting research studies, although the majority of the participants reported implementing the findings of research into their clinical practice to some extent. Conclusion: Additional research education and support within organisations would be beneficial to ensure that children and families are receiving occupational therapy services that are based on sound, high-quality research evidence. The findings of this study provide insight into the perceived research knowledge, attitudes, practices of and barriers to Australian paediatric occupational therapists, enabling specific strategies to be implemented to increase the use of EBP and RU within the profession. ? 2011 The Authors. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal ? 2011 Australian Association of Occupational Therapists.
SDGs
Other Subjects
adult; article; attitude to health; Australia; child; evidence based practice; female; health care delivery; health care survey; health service; health services research; human; male; methodology; middle aged; occupational therapy; organization and management; pediatrics; perception; psychological aspect; questionnaire; statistics; utilization review; Adult; Australia; Child; Evidence-Based Practice; Female; Health Care Surveys; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Health Services Accessibility; Health Services Needs and Demand; Health Services Research; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Occupational Therapy; Pediatrics; Perception; Questionnaires; Young Adult
Type
journal article