Identifying candidate items for a prototype index on propensity to integrate research evidence into clinical decision-making in rehabilitation

PurposeExisting measures of evidence-based practice (EBP) in rehabilitation provide a fragmented interpretation of EBP competencies as performance is rated on discrete domains without a harmonized measure to represent the multidimensionality of EBP. Building on previous work, this study aimed to provide evidence that a brief multidimensional index can be formed to determine a clinicians propensity to integrate research evidence into decision-making to inform the subsequent development process. MethodsUsing a Canadian dataset of occupational and physical therapists (n=127) who responded to a survey containing 70 frequently used items to measure EBP (representing six domains), one item per key EBP domain was selected using Rasch measurement theory and expert consensus. A preliminary scoring algorithm was developed for testing purposes. The interpretability of the prototype index was examined across characteristics of the sample and compared to full EBP measures using generalized estimating equations. ResultsFive items were selected for inclusion in the prototype index representing the dimensions of use of research evidence, self-efficacy, resources, attitudes, and activities. Testing demonstrated that the prototype behaves consistently regardless of age groups, gender, and setting, and provides comparable information to full EBP measures. ConclusionThis study provides promising preliminary evidence to justify continuing the index development process. The benefits of having a global index of EBP as opposed to having multiple domain-specific measures are discussed in this paper.