Screening for Scientific Skills in Spanish-Speaking Occupational Therapists (HACTO-Screen): Study Protocol of a Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

The acquisition of scientific competencies for the application of evidence-based practice (EBP) is considered an essential part of healthcare education programs in order to improve clinical effectiveness. An examination of scientific skills in occupational therapists may be helpful in understanding their current practice as well as being useful in providing a basis for applying suitable approaches to the development and implementation of EBP. Hence, this study was designed with a double main objective: (1) to describe the level of acquisition of scientific skills and academic achievement in Spanish-speaking occupational therapists; (2) to examine the factors associated with these skills. The screening for Scientific Skills in Occupational Therapists (HAbilidades Científicas en Terapeutas Ocupacionales), the HACTO-Screen, is an online cross-sectional survey divided into five sections: sociodemographic data, academic and professional background; assessment of scientific skills; research training and development needs; experience as a researcher and/or academic. A total sample of 1159 occupational therapists finally participated. Main associations will be analyzed using multiple linear and/or Poisson regression models with/without robust variance. Our findings will provide valuable insights on the research skills and associated factors in a large sample of Spanish-speaking occupational therapists. The results will also be helpful to enhance research training and research career development in occupational therapy in order to promote the use of EBP.

Identification and Use of Assessment Tools in Spanish Occupational Therapists: An Exploratory Study

“…In this sense, more efforts are needed to increase the use and knowledge of standardised tools in occupational therapy. Furthermore, in line with recent initiatives aimed at enhancing research skills training for Spanish-speaking occupational therapists [ 41 ], this study’s findings can contribute to the development of new strategies for improving evidence-based assessment in occupational therapy. It is hoped that this study may serve as a basis for future research focused on exploring the factors related to evidence-based practice in the field of occupational therapy, including the use of standardised assessment measures.…”