How to Increase OT Use of Evidence Based Practice

"You have a serious disorder," the doctor says. "I haven't had the time to review the latest research. We'll just jump in and go with it as best we can." This is unacceptable in any field where research is available. By relying on evidence-based practice (EBP), an occupational therapist (OT) complies with recognized best practice in both the public school and private settings. The problem? Being research savvy requires considerable effort on top of an already demanding schedule.

Instructions

Emphasizing the 'Practice' in Evidence-Based Practice for Occupational Therapists

• 1

  Providing basic information is crucial

  Review the basics. A poorly informed OT is a liability to his company and clients alike. Supervisors can get the ball rolling with a general information session for their therapists. Answering the what, why and how behind EBP closes the chasm of ignorance and outlines specific expectations. No time for a meeting? Substitute a simple but detailed handout or email. Avoid having information trashed or deleted with a DVD that can be checked out.

• 2

  Provide online resources. A well-intentioned OT can fail to apply newly acquired skills if necessary resources are inaccessible or appear overwhelming. Supervisors and school districts wanting results can provide a list of approved websites or an online database providing the necessary research.

• 3

  Provide tangible resources. Discussing EBP at last month's meeting and having the tools in your hand are two different levels of expectation. Having assessment and therapy tools that can be easily accessed conveys to the OT that EBP is a reality in his world. Additionally, it increases accountability: there is no excuse for failing to apply evidence-based practices. Finally, it conveys a thank-you to the therapists, who know that tools are not cheap.

• 4

  Encourage continuing education. An OT is required to complete continuing education (CE) credits yearly in order to maintain his license. While knowledge is power, few supervisors relish the thought of an OT being absent from work. However, an informed OT reduces the risk of inappropriate practice, saves his company money and himself time, and presents to clients and families as knowledgeable and competent. This situation is a win-win in numerous ways for the OT and the group or district for which he works.

• 5

  Applaud application of improved practices.

  Applaud application. While research shows that intrinsic rewards trump extrinsic ones as people age, a thank-you is always appreciated. Additionally, performance of adults is not affected as strongly by extrinsic rewards as that of children; this does not mean that tangible rewards are not enjoyed, though. Take time to attach a favorite snack to a carefully crafted note of commendation and you've covered both bases.