Factors that influence the clinical decision-making of rehabilitation professionals in long-term care settings.
Publication/Presentation Date
1-1-2009
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative research was to evaluate the reasoning of clinicians practicing in long-term care facilities and to explore factors influencing their professional development. Eighteen participants were recruited from eight clinical sites and included seven occupational therapists, eight physical therapists, and three speech therapists distributed across three groups relative to experience. Nonparticipant observation and videotape of therapist-patient interactions were used in semi-structured interviews with each participant. Qualitative data analysis software was used during a process of open and axial coding, followed by thematic analysis. The facilitory and inhibitory factors that affect clinical reasoning and professional development were identified. Rehabilitation professionals in long-term care demonstrated clinical reasoning within the context of patient-centered goals. Well-developed and explicit programs for mentorship, professional development, and continuing education fostered their clinical reasoning abilities. Participants perceived that these factors were vital to achieving optimal patient outcomes.
Volume
38
Issue
3
First Page
143
Last Page
151
ISSN
1945-404X
Published In/Presented At
Wainwright, S. F., & McGinnis, P. Q. (2009). Factors that influence the clinical decision-making of rehabilitation professionals in long-term care settings. Journal of allied health, 38(3), 143–151.
Disciplines
Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
PubMedID
19753425
Department(s)
Administration and Leadership
Document Type
Article