Many health professionals lack the skills to find and appraise published research. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of a multifaceted intervention on the knowledge, skills, attitudes and behavior of allied health professionals. 114 self-selected occupational therapists were recruited. The intervention included a 2- day workshop combined with outreach support for eight months. Support involved email and telephone contact and a workplace visit. Evidence-based practice skills and knowledge improved markedly with a targeted education intervention and outreach support. However, changes in behavior were small, based on the frequency of searching and appraisal activities. This study suggests that allied health educators should focus more on post-workshop skill development, particularly appraisal, and help learners to establish new routines and priorities around evidence-based practice. Learners also need to know that behavior change of this nature may take months, even years.
started by emking on 14 Nov 15
http://www.biomedcentral.com/content/pdf/1472-6920-5-40.pdf
Many health professionals lack the skills to find and appraise published research. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of a multifaceted intervention on the knowledge, skills, attitudes and behavior of allied health professionals. 114 self-selected occupational therapists were recruited. The intervention included a 2- day workshop combined with outreach support for eight months. Support involved email and telephone contact and a workplace visit. Evidence-based practice skills and knowledge improved markedly with a targeted education intervention and outreach support. However, changes in behavior were small, based on the frequency of searching and appraisal activities. This study suggests that allied health educators should focus more on post-workshop skill development, particularly appraisal, and help learners to establish new routines and priorities around evidence-based practice. Learners also need to know that behavior change of this nature may take months, even years.