Assessing the Quality of Single-Case Designs in Occupational Therapy: A Scoping Review.

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy research methodology.
• Evidence-based practice in rehabilitation.

Background:

• Single-case designs (SCDs) are crucial for evaluating occupational therapy interventions in diverse populations.
• The current application and quality of SCDs in occupational therapy research require clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review summarizing the current use of SCDs in occupational therapy.
• To identify challenges and limitations in the application of SCDs within the field.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple databases (PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, OTDBASE, CINAHL) from 1990 to 2023.
• The review followed the PRISMA-ScR checklist, focusing on occupational therapy journals and using specific search terms for single-case designs.
• Eighty-eight studies were included in the final analysis.

Main Results:

• Research using SCDs in occupational therapy predominantly focuses on pediatric and physical rehabilitation populations.
• Commonly employed designs include AB and ABA, often with visual analysis lacking adherence to established quality standards like the What Works Clearinghouse.
• A significant proportion of studies utilize methodological approaches that may compromise the rigor and validity of findings.

Conclusions:

• While single-case designs offer a valuable approach for occupational therapy, there is a critical need to enhance the methodological quality of studies.
• Future research should prioritize adherence to established guidelines to ensure the robustness and reliability of evidence generated through SCDs.
• Improving the quality of SCDs will strengthen the evidence base for occupational therapy interventions and support evidence-based practice.