Methodological description of knowledge translation: Implementation of clinical practice guidelines into clinical...

This methodological paper explores the intricacies of implementing evidence-based medicine in the health care sector specifically focusing on the clinical practice guideline (CPG) published by the American Physical Therapy Association's Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy for diagnosing upper quadrant lymphedema secondary to cancer (diagnosis CPG). Although CPGs are widely available, their implementation into clinical practice remains inconsistent, slow, and complex. To address this challenge, this paper employs the Knowledge-to-Action framework, offering a detailed description of the seven stages through the lens of an in-progress case study on the implementation of the diagnosis CPG. This paper underscores the important role of knowledge translation in identifying both barriers and facilitators to effective CPG implementation. Through targeted strategies, such as stakeholder engagement and adaptation of interventions, this paper offers a framework for aligning clinical practice with evidence-based recommendations to improve overall workflow and improved patient outcomes.