A conceptual framework to increase usability of outcome research for evidence-based practice.
Although evidence-based practice is the current practice approach recommended for use in occupational therapy, practitioners often report difficulties in using research evidence because of its content and presentation. This paper discusses a conceptual model that researchers can use to create research evidence that is easier for practitioners to understand and use. The Diffusion of Innovations Theory is used as a framework to identify desirable characteristics that may facilitate practitioners' adoption and utilization of research evidence. The concepts of social validity, ecological validity, and clinical significance are presented and discussed as ways to create those desirable characteristics that could make research information more usable for evidence-based practice. Examples for implementation of the conceptual model are also discussed.
Sudsawad
Pimjai
P
Occupational Therapy Program, Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2176 Medical Services Center, 1300 University Avenue, Wisconsin 53706, USA. psudsawad@education.wisc.edu
D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D011364:Professional Practice; D014481:United States