Evidence-Based Practice for Occupational Therapists

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is one of the driving forces in current healthcare practice. Occupational therapists recognise the need for research and for an evidence-based approach to interventions, but can need guidance on how to do this. This book aims to make evidence-based practice accessible and relevant to occupational therapists using examples from therapy practice. It will provide them with the skills to search for and access the required evidence to underpin or question practice.

Publication of the first edition of this book in 2000 signaled the receptiveness of the occupational therapy community toward evidence-based practice. This second edition, as well as providing practical information on EBP, also addresses how it has evolved within the culture of occupational therapy. The author considers the definition of evidence-based occupational therapy, the impact of research governance, and social care influences on suitable evidence. Implementation issues are covered in more depth, including change management and practice guidelines. Three new chapters have been added on evidence from other sources; carrying out a review of the evidence and developing and using guidelines for practice.