Using the knowledge to action process model to incite clinical change

Knowledge translation (KT) has only recently emerged in the field of rehabilitation with attention on creating effective KT interventions to increase clinicians' knowledge and use of evidence-based practice (EBP). The uptake of EBP is a complex process that can be facilitated by the use of the Knowledge to Action Process model. This model provides a sequence of phases for researchers and clinicians to follow in order to optimize KT across various fields of practice.

In this article we use an example from a series of national studies in stroke rehabilitation to demonstrate how the Knowledge to Action Process model is being used to increase the use of best practices in the management of a very prevalent poststroke impairment, unilateral spatial neglect.

The series of research projects and actions described herein each address a specific phase of the model. The reader is introduced to a specific example with the goal of generalizing the process to his or her own domain of interest. Gaps in our research agenda are also highlighted and future initiatives to complete the process are described.

It is important that KT is maximized in health care to improve patient outcomes. As demonstrated here, the Knowledge to Action Process model provides an excellent guide for clinicians, managers, and researchers who wish to incite change in patient care.