Article

This study surveyed Canadian occupational therapists to identify whether
their pain knowledge is current or if the gaps identified in past studies have
remained the same. The findings will provide information to guide the development
of targeted pain knowledge translation strategies for occupational therapists.
METHOD: A self-report survey, including demographic questions and part of the
City of Boston's Rehabilitation Professionals' Knowledge and Attitude Survey
(COBS), was disseminated electronically to all members of the Canadian
Association of Occupational Therapists. RESULTS: A total of 354 therapists, most
came from Ontario, Alberta and Nova Scotia and working in the community, acute
care and private practice, participated. Over 50% had 10 years or less of
experience. Deficit knowledge areas were identified in pediatric pain, chronic
versus acute pain, pain assessment and medications. These findings are largely
consistent with deficits identified in pre-2000 studies. CONCLUSIONS: Pain
knowledge gaps persist among Canadian occupational therapists and this can, and
should, be addressed within the occupational therapist (OT) curriculum and in
professional development initiatives. It is concerning that this study identified
similar knowledge gaps as those identified in previous studies of OT students and
clinicians. Pain is a growing and complex issue with negative impact on
occupational performance across the lifespan.
Knowledge dissemination of
occupational therapy pain assessment and management approaches should be a
priority for the profession. Implications for Rehabilitation Pain is a prevalent
condition in all age groups of occupational therapists' clients. There appear to
be gaps in occupational therapists' evidence-based knowledge of aspects of pain.
Occupational therapy training programs and occupational therapy associations
should provide education with a particular focus on identified pain knowledge gaps.

Langue : ANGLAIS