A knowledge translation intervention designed using audit and feedback and the Theoretical Domains Framework for physical therapists working in inpatient rehabilitation: A case report

ABSTRACT

Background and Purpose: Little is known about the process of engaging key stakeholders to select and design a knowledge translation (KT) intervention to increase the use of an outcome measure using audit and feedback. The purpose of this case report was to describe the development of a KT intervention designed with organizational support to increase physical therapists’ (PTs) use of a selected outcome measure in an inpatient sub-acute rehabilitation hospital. Case Description: Eleven PTs who worked at a sub-acute rehabilitation hospital participated. After determining organizational support, a mixed methods barrier assessment including a chart audit, questionnaire, and a focus group with audit and feedback was used to select an outcome measure and design a locally tailored intervention. The intervention was mapped using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). One investigator acted as knowledge broker and co-designed the intervention with clinician and supervisor support. Outcomes: The 4-m walk test was selected through a group discussion facilitated by the knowledge broker. Support from the facility and input from the key stakeholders guided the design of a tailored KT intervention to increase use of gait speed. The intervention design included an interactive educational meeting, with documentation and environmental changes. Discussion: Input from the clinicians on the educational meeting, documentation changes and placement of tracks, and support from the supervisor were used to design and locally adapt a KT intervention to change assessment practice among PTs in an inpatient sub-acute rehabilitation hospital. Implementation and evaluation of the intervention is underway.

KEYWORDS:

• knowledge translation
• outcome measures
• intervention mapping
• Theoretical Domains Framework
• Rehabilitation

Acknowledgments

Wendy Romney was a pre-doctoral fellow in Rivers Lab, Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, School of Health Professions, Rutgers University and a recipient of the Ellen Ross Memorial Scholarship, Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, School of Health Professions, Rutgers University. We would like to acknowledge the physical therapists and supervisor at Bethel Health Care Center, Bethel, CT for their commitment to this project.

Declaration of interest

The authors confirm that there are no known conflicts of interest.