Patterns of research utilization among Certified Hand Therapists.

STUDY

DESIGN

Mixed methods, cross-sectional.

INTRODUCTION

Nearly 30% of Certified Hand Therapists rarely or never use research findings when treating carpal tunnel syndrome.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: To identify groups of CHTs with common research utilization patterns.

METHODS

National randomized mail survey of 600 CHTs (n = 308, RR = 55%). Latent class and thematic analysis of eight questions assessing research use and beliefs.

RESULTS

Four groups of CHT research users were identified: Analytic (n = 135, 45%); Skeptic (n = 65, 22%); Pragmatic (n = 53, 18%); and Traditional (n = 46, 15%). Highest research use was reported among Analytics and Pragmatics although Skeptics willingly relied on research evidence when it contradicted other sources of knowledge. Age, not experience or population density, was a significant covariate of group membership.

CONCLUSIONS

Empowering CHTs to use research findings by increased understanding of their group membership, and understanding others' groups, may increase progress toward evidence-based practice.