Preliminary survey of factors associated with promoting evidence-based practice among rehabilitation professionals working in acute care wards

Abstract

Background: Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) is an important process that rehabilitation professionals working in acute care wards should work on as a common language. Purpose: This study explored the factors associated with promoting EBP among rehabilitation professionals working in acute care wards. Methods: Thirty-three rehabilitation professionals (21 Physical Therapists, 6 Occupational Therapists, and 6 Speech Therapists) working in the acute care ward of Hospital A were asked to respond to the questionnaire regarding EBP. Results: All 33 participants answered the questionnaire (100% response rate). The following were found to be associated with implementation of EBP: Experience in the implementation of EBP (r=.598, p<.001), Positive experiences resulting from implementation of EBP (r=.588, p<.001), Experience in education on high-level evidence-based intervention and assistance methods (r=.520, p=.002), Self-efficacy regarding EBP (r=.475, p=.005), Intrinsic motivation for EBP (r=.465, p=.006), Experience in education on EBP methodology (r=.358, p=.041), and Experience as preceptor in training of junior staff, e.g., educating new recruits (r=.345, p=.049). No significant correlation was found between implementation of EBP and years of clinical experience. Sex, job title, and final education had no significant effect on implementation of EBP. Conclusions: To promote the implementation of EBP among rehabilitation professionals working in acute care wards, the study suggests the need to gain clinical and educational experience in EBP, as well as to increase their self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation for EBP.