Factors Influencing Physical Therapists' Adoption of Evidence-Based Practice
Author Information
Author(s): Patricia H. Bridges, Laura L. Bierema, Thomas Valentine
Primary Institution: Emory University
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine how personal characteristics and workplace social system characteristics influence physical therapists' propensity to adopt evidence-based practice.
Conclusion
The study confirms that multiple factors influence the adoption of evidence-based practice among physical therapists.
Supporting Evidence
- Desire for learning was the strongest predictor of the propensity to adopt evidence-based practice.
- Physical therapists with higher degrees were more likely to adopt evidence-based practice.
- Age and years licensed were negatively correlated with the propensity to adopt evidence-based practice.
Takeaway
This study shows that physical therapists who are eager to learn and have higher degrees are more likely to use research in their practice.
Methodology
A mailed self-completion questionnaire was used to assess the propensity to adopt evidence-based practice among a random sample of physical therapists in Georgia.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable beyond physical therapists licensed in Georgia, and many other influencing variables were not considered.
Participant Demographics
The majority of respondents were female (72.7%), with a mean age of 39.4 years and an average of 13.4 years licensed as physical therapists.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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