Algo's Integrated Knowledge Translation Process in Homecare Services: A Cross-Sectional Correlational Study for Identifying its Level of Utilization and its Associated Characteristics

2021 ◽  
pp. 000841742110644
Author(s):  
Mélanie Ruest ◽  
Guillaume Léonard ◽  
Aliki Thomas ◽  
Johanne Desrosiers ◽  
Manon Guay

Background. Algo is an integrated knowledge translation (IKT)-based algorithm for supporting occupational therapists (OTs) with skill mix for selecting bathing equipment. While IKT approaches are increasingly valued in implementation science, their benefits with respect to the utilization of knowledge in clinical settings are scarcely documented. Purpose. To identify Algo's level of utilization and the characteristics associated with its level of utilization. Method. A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted with OTs working in homecare services (HCS) through an online survey based on Knott and Wildavsky's classification and the Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services ( PARIHS) framework. Findings. Almost half (48%) of the OTs surveyed (n = 125; participation rate: 16%) reached one of the seven levels of utilization. While Evidence characteristics are perceived as facilitators to its utilization, Context statements indicate an unfavorable organizational climate to the implementation of change. Implications. Strategies should target additional stakeholders (e.g., HCS managers) and organizational adjustments in HCS to sustain Algo's utilization.

2014 ◽  
Vol 25 (10) ◽  
pp. 1008-1021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Danielle Glista ◽  
Susan Scollie ◽  
Sheila Moodie ◽  
Vijayalakshmi Easwar ◽  

Background: The Ling 6(HL) test offers a calibrated version of naturally produced speech sounds in dB HL for evaluation of detection thresholds. Aided performance has been previously characterized in adults. Purpose: The purpose of this work was to evaluate and refine the Ling 6(HL) test for use in pediatric hearing aid outcome measurement. Research Design: This work is presented across two studies incorporating an integrated knowledge translation approach in the characterization of normative and typical performance, and in the evaluation of clinical feasibility, utility, acceptability, and implementation. Study Sample: A total of 57 children, 28 normally hearing and 29 with binaural sensorineural hearing loss, were included in Study 1. Children wore their own hearing aids fitted using Desired Sensation Level v5.0. Nine clinicians from The Network of Pediatric Audiologists participated in Study 2. Data Collection and Analysis: A CD-based test format was used in the collection of unaided and aided detection thresholds in laboratory and clinical settings; thresholds were measured clinically as part of routine clinical care. Confidence intervals were derived to characterize normal performance and typical aided performance according to hearing loss severity. Unaided-aided performance was analyzed using a repeated-measures analysis of variance. The audiologists completed an online questionnaire evaluating the quality, feasibility/executability, utility/comparative value/relative advantage, acceptability/applicability, and interpretability, in addition to recommendation and general comments sections. Results: Ling 6(HL) thresholds were reliably measured with children 3–18 yr old. Normative and typical performance ranges were translated into a scoring tool for use in pediatric outcome measurement. In general, questionnaire respondents generally agreed that the Ling 6(HL) test was a high-quality outcome evaluation tool that can be implemented successfully in clinical settings. Conclusions: By actively collaborating with pediatric audiologists and using an integrated knowledge translation framework, this work supported the creation of an evidence-based clinical tool that has the potential to be implemented in, and useful to, clinical practice. More research is needed to characterize performance in alternative listening conditions to facilitate use with infants, for example. Future efforts focused on monitoring the use of the Ling 6(HL) test in daily clinical practice may help describe whether clinical use has been maintained across time and if any additional adaptations are necessary to facilitate clinical uptake.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Euson Yeung ◽  
Stephanie Scodras ◽  
Nancy M. Salbach ◽  
Anita Kothari ◽  
Ian D. Graham

Abstract Background Considerable progress has been made to advance the field of knowledge translation to address the knowledge-to-action gap in health care; however, there remains a growing concern that misalignments persist between research being conducted and the issues faced by knowledge users, such as clinicians and health policy makers, who make decisions in the health care context. Integrated knowledge translation (IKT) is a collaborative research model that has shown promise in addressing these concerns. It takes advantage of the unique and shared competencies amongst researchers and knowledge users to ensure relevance of the research process and its outcomes. To date, core competencies have already been identified to facilitate training in knowledge translation more generally but they have yet to be prioritized for IKT more specifically. The primary aim of this study was to recruit a group of researchers and knowledge users to identify and prioritize core competencies for researchers and knowledge users to engage with IKT. Methods We recruited health care knowledge users (KUs) and researchers with experience and knowledge of IKT for a quantitative, cross-sectional study. We employed a modified Delphi approach consisting of three e-survey rounds to establish consensus on competencies important to IKT for KUs and researchers based on mean rating of importance and agreement between participants. Results Nineteen (73%) of the initial 26 participants were researchers (response rate = 41% in the first round; retention in subsequent rounds > 80%). Participants identified a total of 46 competencies important for IKT (18 competencies for KUs, 28 competencies for researchers) under 3 broad domains. Technical research skills were deemed extremely important for researchers, while both groups require teamwork and knowledge translation skills. Conclusions This study provides important insight into distinct and overlapping IKT competencies for KUs and researchers. Future work could focus on how these can be further negotiated and contextualized for a wide range of IKT contexts, projects and teams. Greater attention could also be paid to establishing competencies of the entire team to support the research co-production process.


2018 ◽  
Vol 85 (5) ◽  
pp. 408-417
Author(s):  
Sandra E. Moll ◽  
Caitlin M. Heino ◽  
Alison H. LeBlanc ◽  
Lydia B. Beck ◽  
Laura M. Kalef

Background. Workplace mental health (WMH) is an important and expanding practice area for occupational therapists. Purpose. This cross-sectional study explores the current practices and support needs of Ontario-based occupational therapists in WMH. Method. Registrants from the provincial association who provide mental health and/or work-related services were invited to participate. Ninety-three therapists completed an online survey; 10 participated in follow-up focus groups. Analysis involved descriptive statistics of the survey data and content analysis of the focus group data. Findings. Return to work, reactivation, and functional cognitive assessment were the most commonly reported services. Key challenges were limited funding and training and lack of awareness of the occupational therapy role. Therapists emphasized the importance of raising the competence, credibility, and profile of occupational therapy in WMH. Implications. Defining the role of occupational therapy, developing training and resources, and advocacy are needed to advance occupational therapy practice within this rapidly changing field.


2011 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 34-56 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sheila T. Moodie ◽  
Marlene P. Bagatto ◽  
Linda T. Miller ◽  
Anita Kothari ◽  
Richard Seewald ◽  
...  

2018 ◽  
Vol 46 (1) ◽  
pp. 59-72 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alice Moore ◽  
Helen Lynch

Purpose Play occupation has been identified as an essential part of children’s lives, and it subsequently features in paediatric occupational therapy. However, few studies address the current place of play and play occupation in occupational therapy practice. This study aims to address this gap in knowledge by exploring paediatric occupational therapists’ perspectives on the place of play and play occupation in occupational therapy practice in Ireland. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional online survey was conducted to gather data about the current use of play in the occupational therapy for children under 12 years. Convenience sampling and snowball recruitment techniques were used to recruit paediatric occupational therapists. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis. Findings In total, 65 therapists responded to the survey (estimated response rate, 32%). Results are organised into four sections: demographics and practice context, play assessment practices, use of play in practice and perceived barriers to play-centred practice. Respondents reported that they valued play as a childhood occupation. However, the survey findings identified that the primary focus was on play as a means to an end. Lack of education on play (research, theory and interventions) and pressures in the workplace have been identified as barriers to play-centred practice. Research limitations/implications Findings indicate that there is a mismatch between therapists valuing play as an occupation and how play is used in occupational therapy practice. Unless clarifications are made about play occupation as being different to skills acquisition in childhood, play occupation will continue to get overlooked as an authentic concern of occupation-centred practice. Thus, play as occupation deserves further attention from educators, researchers and practitioners as a means of strengthening occupation-centred practice, in particular play-centred practice in the paediatric context. Originality/value Play has been described as an important occupation in childhood, and consequently, it features in paediatric occupational therapy. However, little is known about the current place of play in occupational therapy practice. This study addresses this gap by considering the current place of play in occupational therapy practice in Ireland.


2019 ◽  
Vol 99 (3) ◽  
pp. 286-296 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marie-Louise Bird ◽  
B William Mortenson ◽  
Francis Chu ◽  
Nicole Acerra ◽  
Eric Bagnall ◽  
...  

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