Competence and Confidence: An Evaluation of Physiotherapists' Knowledge and Self-Perception About Physical Activity and Exercise in Patients With Haemophilia.

INTRODUCTION

Physiotherapists are irreplaceable in providing safe, tailored physical activity (PA) and exercise in patients with haemophilia (PwH).

AIM: Evaluating physiotherapists' knowledge, self-perceived competence, confidence, role, assumptions for safety of activities and barriers regarding PA and exercise in PwH was aimed.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted amongst 200 physiotherapists. Knowledge was assessed via a 20-item true/false test. Assumptions for safety were assessed by rating 10 paired physical activities. Self-perceptions and barriers were assessed by the level of agreement with relevant statements.

RESULTS

Participants (median age = 32 years, 69.5% female) had a median of 9 years' experience, predominantly working in orthopaedics; 88% had no prior experience with PwH. Knowledge assessment revealed that the highest correct responses were for items on haemophilia not being contagious and the benefits of exercise (up to 94.5%), while the lowest were for statements regarding joint-specific strengthening, disease severity and resistance training safety (12%-29.5%). Assumptions for safety levels varied substantially across activities. Many participants (87.5%) believe that it is a physiotherapist's duty to determine appropriate PA and exercise for PwH. However, a significant portion of participants reported that they either lack the necessary knowledge, skills or confidence. Patients' and their families' misconceptions about exercise, and insufficient cooperation amongst healthcare professionals, were the most common barriers.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed that while physiotherapist recognize their professional responsibility, they feel that they lack the necessary specialized knowledge, skills and confidence. The creation of a specialized, multidisciplinary education program might be beneficial to address this gap.