Increasing Occupation-Based Evaluations in Outpatient Practice: A Knowledge Translation Initiative

Abstract

Date Presented 04/03/2025

A knowledge translation intervention was implemented at an outpatient clinic to increase occupation-based outcome measures. Results indicate successful implementation of one measure in particular, with time and clinic space being key considerations.

Primary Author and Speaker: Elizabeth H. Yost

Additional Authors and Speakers: Nada Metti

Occupation-based care is a central tenet of best practice in occupational therapy. However, research has shown that occupation-based outcome measures are underutilized in OT practice. The purpose of this study was to implement a knowledge translation (KT) intervention at a neurologic outpatient setting to increase the use of occupation-based outcome measures in occupational therapy (OT). A quasi-experimental design was used by conducting retrospective chart audits pre/post KT intervention to assess the uptake of two measures to facilitate occupation-based evaluations: The Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) and the Jebsen Hand Function Test (JHFT). Both measures were tailored to fit the needs of the outpatient clinic in collaboration with the practicing OTs. The Knowledge-to-Action Framework was applied and KT strategies implemented, including provision of assessment kits, educational outreach and materials (user-friendly website with videos and sample documentation), and weekly ‘Task-Oriented Tuesday’ reminder emails.

RESULTS: Pre-KT intervention, 1.2% of OT evaluations (n = 173) utilized the PSFS and 3.5% utilized an occupation-based outcome measure. Post-KT intervention, 89% of OT evaluations (n = 118) utilized the PSFS and 15% utilized either the JHFT or another occupation-based measure. When surveyed, OTs (n = 10) placed high value on occupation-based measures, but identified main barriers of time constraints and lack of clinic space devoted to occupation-based practice. The KT intervention resulted in successful implementation of the PSFS, but only minor success of the JHFT. The gap between evidence and practice was reduced, but not closed. When it comes to choosing measures to support occupation-based practice, time and the clinic environment are key factors to consider. Ongoing KT efforts are underway to explore other occupation-based measures that fit the outpatient clinic context.

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