Beyond research literature: Occupational therapists’ perspectives on and uses of “evidence” in everyday practice

Abstract

The findings support current literature that has suggested expanding the definition of evidence (i.e., more than research findings alone). Further investigation of evidence building in practice may help in constructing a more inclusive professional culture of evidence-based practice.

Sources of evidence for professional decision-making in novice occupational therapy practitioners: clinicians’ perspectives

“…(Sackett et al., 1996: 77). Dougherty et al. (2016) posit that decisions are informed by a blend of therapist-internalised evidence, context and evidence from the client.…”

“…(Sackett et al, 1996: 77). Dougherty et al (2016) posit that decisions are informed by a blend of therapistinternalised evidence, context and evidence from the client. However, while participants in this study emphasised the importance of the clients' view, they described few strategies for eliciting it.…”

Individual and organizational factors associated with evidence‐based practice among physical and occupational therapy recent graduates: A cross‐sectional national study

“…It is therefore possible that these conversations might actually include aspects of EBP that are beyond levels of effectiveness or the 5‐step EBP process, but that also incorporate practical aspects related to the concrete applications of research findings in a specific context. As debates on the merits and challenges of EBP grow, 60‐62 clinicians may be turning to colleagues for discussions on topics such as the various conceptions of evidence, 63‐66 the legitimacy of patient narratives in the decision‐making process, 67 and case examples of when the evidence from gold standard designs such as randomized clinical trials conflict with patient choices and/or do not apply to their unique situation 17 . To address the issue of peer exchanges on matters pertaining to EBP, Rochette et al 58 suggested the use of professional networking to improve broader EBP competencies rather than targeting individual discrete skills.…”

“…There is a growing literature on EBP and its use among groups of health care professionals (eg, nurses, OTs, PTs, physicians) 14‐16 . In rehabilitation specifically, studies have aimed to measure and understand the constructs associated with EBP such as knowledge, confidence and actual use of EBP 9,17‐22 . For example, McEvoy et al (2010) reported a positive relationship between the amount of training in EBP and clinicians' knowledge, attitudes confidence, and use of EBP 23 .…”

“…Although the last two decades have seen a considerable rise in the research on EBP, 3,9,14,17,19,28 most studies contain methodological and conceptual limitations. Canadian studies lack representation across Canada where there are close to 30 professional masters entry‐level programs in OT and PT, and only few studies focus on both the use of EBP and EB activities at the time of entry to the profession.…”