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Implementing Clinical Practice Guidelines for Improving Function in Cerebral Palsy: Development of a Fidelity Tool
Michelle Jackman1, Megan Thorley, Rachel Toovey
1The Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (Dr Jackman, Mr Blatch-Williams, Prof Novak); John Hunter Children's Hospital, Newcastle, Australia (Dr Jackman); Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service, Brisbane, Australia (Ms Thorley); Department of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia (Dr Toovey); Queensland Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation Research Centre, The University of Queensland Child Health Research Centre, Brisbane, Australia (Dr Burgess, A/Prof Sakzewski, Prof Boyd).
Purpose:
To develop a fidelity tool to support the implementation of clinical practice guidelines to improve physical function for children and young people with cerebral palsy.
Methods:
Fidelity tool development followed a 5-step process: the pilot study, using a mixed-methods action research approach, and including focus groups, questionnaires, and field notes.
Results:
A 21-item fidelity tool representing the core components of the clinical practice guidelines was developed, including subsections of goal setting, intervention, and elements seen throughout therapeutic intervention. Clinicians and supervisors reported this tool as acceptable and feasible, especially when used as a self-reflection tool.
Conclusions:
A fidelity tool has been developed that clinicians, supervisors and organizations can use to reflect on current practice and plan for changes to align practice with guidelines to improve function in children with cerebral palsy.
