Exploring Knowledge Translation Concepts in U.S. Occupational Therapy Research: A Content Analysis.

Area of Science:

• Occupational Therapy
• Knowledge Translation
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Knowledge Translation (KT) is a key concept in occupational therapy, influenced by new educational standards.
• Understanding KT in occupational therapy research is crucial for education, practice, and research advancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the extent to which U.S.-based occupational therapy research, using KT theories, aligns with the Knowledge-to-Action (KTA) framework.
• To identify gaps in occupational therapy research concerning the KTA framework's core components.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search identified U.S.-based occupational therapy research.
• Content analysis of 11 selected articles was performed using the KTA framework as a guide.

Main Results:

• The study found that research mapped well onto the knowledge creation and initial knowledge action cycle concepts of the KTA framework.
• However, three key concepts—monitoring knowledge use, evaluating outcomes, and sustaining knowledge use—were underrepresented in the analyzed research.

Conclusions:

• Occupational therapy research requires further investigation into monitoring, evaluating, and sustaining the use of evidence-based interventions.
• Enhancing research on the integration and long-term application of interventions is vital for advancing best practices in occupational therapy.