Enhancing Pediatric Therapy Through Knowledge Brokers: Insights from Recent Research

In the dynamic field of pediatric therapy, the adoption of evidence-based measurement tools is crucial for assessing and improving children's motor functions. However, therapists often face challenges in selecting, administering, and interpreting these tools. The study titled "Using knowledge brokers to facilitate the uptake of pediatric measurement tools into clinical practice: a before-after intervention study" provides valuable insights into overcoming these challenges.The study evaluated the impact of a multifaceted knowledge translation (KT) intervention using physical therapists (PTs) as knowledge brokers (KBs) to facilitate the use of four evidence-based measurement tools designed to evaluate motor function in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The tools included:

• Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS)
• Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-88 and GMFM-66)
• Motor Growth Curves (MGCs)

Key Findings

The study revealed significant improvements in therapists' self-reported knowledge and use of the measurement tools. Here are the highlights:

• Increased Familiarity and Use: PTs' familiarity and use of the GMFCS, GMFM-88, GMFM-66, and MGCs increased significantly over the six-month intervention period and were sustained 12 months later.
• Regional Differences: Therapists in the East (Ontario) reported greater familiarity and use at baseline compared to those in the West (Alberta and British Columbia), but the intervention had a significant impact in both regions.
• Organizational Culture: A strong research culture and supervisor expectations were significant predictors of the increased use of the GMFCS.

Practical Implications for Practitioners

Implementing the findings from this study can enhance the use of measurement tools in clinical practice:

• Engage Knowledge Brokers: Embedding KBs within clinical sites can effectively increase the use of evidence-based tools. Ensure that KBs are enthusiastic and supported with adequate resources.
• Provide Ongoing Support: Offer financial remuneration, training materials, and personal and intranet support to KBs to facilitate their role.
• Foster a Research Culture: Encourage a culture that values research evidence in decision-making processes and set clear expectations for the use of measurement tools.

Encouraging Further Research

While this study provides promising results, further research is needed to explore the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of the KB model in broader rehabilitation settings. Additionally, understanding the impact of these tools on child and family outcomes would provide a more comprehensive view of their benefits.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Using knowledge brokers to facilitate the uptake of pediatric measurement tools into clinical practice: a before-after intervention study.