Training programmes to improve evidence uptake and utilisation by physiotherapists: a systematic scoping review

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Physical Therapy
• Knowledge Translation

Background:

• Knowledge translation (KT) interventions aim to increase clinician use of research evidence.
• While KT training improves physiotherapist evidence uptake, optimal training components remain unclear.
• This review investigates evidence on KT training programs for enhancing physiotherapists' evidence-based practice (EBP) and clinical practice guidelines (CPG) use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically scope the evidence regarding knowledge translation (KT) training programs.
• To identify effective KT strategies for improving physiotherapists' uptake of evidence-based practice (EBP) and clinical practice guidelines (CPG).

Main Methods:

• A systematic scoping review following the Arksey and O'Malley framework.
• Searched nine electronic databases for primary research on KT training for physiotherapists.
• Included nine eligible primary research studies, analyzing data descriptively.

Main Results:

• Multi-faceted KT strategies, including interactive sessions, didactic teaching, printed materials, and feedback, were consistently effective.
• KT strategies addressing local barriers to EBP/CPG utilization showed higher success rates.
• No consistent outcome measurement methods were identified across studies.

Conclusions:

• Multi-faceted KT strategies are most effective for improving EBP/CPG uptake in physiotherapy.
• Addressing local barriers within KT interventions is crucial for successful knowledge translation.
• Future research should focus on standardized outcome measurement in KT training effectiveness studies.