Abstract
Purpose of the study and background
The CONNECT trial evaluated a theory-based intervention to increase low back pain patients' adherence to treatment recommendations through physiotherapists' communication behaviour. Bridging the gap between evidence and evidence-based practice, we aimed to develop an implementation intervention to support physiotherapists in translating the CONNECT communication training into practice.
Methods and results
A systematic approach was used to develop this intervention. 1. Focus groups underpinned by the Theoretical Domains Framework were conducted to assess CONNECT trained physiotherapists' (n = 9) perceptions of the barriers and enablers to implementing these strategies in practice; the results of which yielded four main domains; two related to factors outside the individual (i.e. social influences and environmental resources), and two related to individuals' motivation and capabilities (i.e. self –efficacy and behavioural regulation). 2. Intervention components (i.e., behavior change techniques (BCT) and mode of delivery) were chosen. BCTs were mapped to the identified domains (e.g., the BCT of self-monitoring mapped to the self-efficacy domain) and audit and feedback focused coaching was selected as the main mode of delivery based on empirical evidence and feasibility. 3. Outcome measures were selected to evaluate the proposed changes in physiotherapist practice (i.e., Health Care Climate Questionnaire). This intervention was trialed with physiotherapists (n = 2) using a case-study design. Results from patient consultation audio-recordings and follow-up interviews revealed this intervention supported the translation of evidence-based training into practice and is considered feasible and acceptable to physiotherapists.
Conclusion
Findings provide support for the systematic development and implementation of an intervention to translate evidence-based communication training into practice.
