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Thompson JH, Thompson J, Bailey S. Shared decision-making in advanced physiotherapy and first contact physiotherapy management of adults with musculoskeletal disorders in the United Kingdom: An online cross-sectional survey. J Eval Clin Pract 2024. [PMID: 38881399 DOI: 10.1111/jep.14043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Advanced practice physiotherapy roles (Advanced Physiotherapy Practitioners [APPs] and First Contact Physiotherapists [FCPs]) are pivotal in supporting patients to manage their musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. Having a greater understanding of how decisions are made by these practitioners will inform competency frameworks and improve the provision of patient-centred care. AIM To evaluate the current knowledge, views and use of shared decision-making in MSK advanced physiotherapy practice in the United Kingdom. METHODS A cross-sectional survey using an online questionnaire was used to collect demographic information, knowledge, views and self-reported use of shared decision-making (SDM) of APPs and FCPs who work with adults with MSK disorders in the United Kingdom. RESULTS Responses from 49 participants (25 APPs and 24 FCPs) were included in the study. In total, 80% of participants had received SDM training and overall high levels of knowledge were shown. Only 12% of participants used a communication model to facilitate SDM. In total, 80% of participants reported making decisions together with the patient either always or most of the time. FCPs favoured a more patient-led approach to decision-making compared to APPs who favoured collaborative decision-making. The most commonly reported barriers to SDM included lack of time, lack of patient education resources, lack of access to patient decision aids and treatment pathway restrictions. CONCLUSIONS The responses in this study showed that overall APPs and FCPs have good knowledge of SDM and report routine use of collaborative and patient-led decision-making approaches.
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Yeowell G, Leech R, Greenhalgh S, Willis E, Selfe J. The lived experiences of UK physiotherapists involved in Cauda Equina Syndrome litigation. A qualitative study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290882. [PMID: 37708146 PMCID: PMC10501620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cauda Equina Syndrome is a serious spinal pathology, which can have life changing physical and psychological consequences and is highly litigious. Litigation can have negative personal and professional effects on the healthcare professionals cited in a clinical negligence claim. There is an absence of research looking at the experience of the physiotherapist and as such, it is unknown the impact litigation is having on them. This study explored the lived experiences of UK physiotherapists in relation to Cauda Equina Syndrome litigation. METHODS A qualitative design, informed by Gadamerian hermeneutic phenomenology, using semi-structured interviews was used to explore participants' lived experiences of litigation. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Findings were analysed using an inductive thematic analysis framework. Nvivo software was used to facilitate analysis. The study is reported in accordance with the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative (COREQ) research. RESULTS 40 interviews took place online or over the phone, with physiotherapists and stakeholders. Four themes were found; 'litigation effects', 'it feels personal', 'learning from litigation' and 'support and training'. CONCLUSION This is the first study to investigate the lived experiences of litigation in UK physiotherapists. Involvement in clinical negligence affected physiotherapists' physical and mental wellbeing and impacted their clinical practice. Most physiotherapists felt litigation was a personal attack on them and their ability to do their job. Physiotherapists highlighted perceptions of a 'blame culture' and perceived stigma associated with the claim, which often led to a lack of sharing and learning from litigation. Physiotherapists emphasised the need for emotional support for those going through a legal claim and that training was needed to understand the process of litigation and range of potential outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian Yeowell
- Department of Health Professions, Faculty Health and Education, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Leech
- Department of Health Professions, Faculty Health and Education, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Greenhalgh
- Department of Health Professions, Faculty Health and Education, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, Orthopaedic Interface Service, Bolton One, Bolton, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Willis
- Department of Health Professions, Faculty Health and Education, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - James Selfe
- Department of Health Professions, Faculty Health and Education, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Ingram S, Stenner R, May S. The experiences of uncertainty amongst musculoskeletal physiotherapists in first contact practitioner roles within primary care. Musculoskeletal Care 2023; 21:644-654. [PMID: 36683250 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this research was to explore the experiences of uncertainty amongst Musculoskeletal First Contact Practitioners working in primary care. BACKGROUND The Musculoskeletal First Contact Practitioner role involves advanced physiotherapists providing an alternative to the GP by acting as first point of contact for people presenting to primary care with musculoskeletal conditions. Limited research into the role exists but the first-contact aspect, clinical complexity and time pressures are deemed to contribute to uncertainty within the role. METHOD A qualitative research design was undertaken using a hermeneutic interpretative phenomenological approach. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with subsequent thematic analysis of the data. FINDINGS Eight participants working as Musculoskeletal First Contact Practitioners across England were recruited using purposive sampling. Five themes were identified: (1) Role clarity within primary care, (2) Burden of responsibility, (3) Preparedness for the primary care environment, (4) 'I'm not really sure how long I am going to stay in this role', (5) Mitigating uncertainty. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the multifaceted phenomenon of uncertainty amongst Musculoskeletal First Contact Practitioners. Uncertainty appeared to be influenced by the primary care environment, preparedness for the role and perceived burden of responsibility. Diagnostic uncertainty was prevalent with concerns of missing serious pathology evident. The impact of uncertainty on wellbeing was linked to possible burnout and retention issues. Consultation approaches, access to support networks and a cultural shift in tolerating uncertainty were reported to mitigate uncertainty. Further research into possible differences in experiences related to employment models appears warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Ingram
- Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton, Somerset, UK
| | - Rob Stenner
- Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton, Somerset, UK
| | - Sue May
- School of Health Professions, Peninsula Allied Health Centre, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, Devon, UK
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Brun C, Zerhouni O, Akinyemi A, Houtin L, Monvoisin R, Pinsault N. Impact of uncertainty intolerance on clinical reasoning: A scoping review of the 21st-century literature. J Eval Clin Pract 2023; 29:539-553. [PMID: 36071694 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED RATIONALE, AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: Clinical reasoning is currently extensively studied to find out how to make proper diagnoses. Literature indicates that intolerance of uncertainty (IU) may have a strong negative impact on clinical reasoning. We summarize the various consequences of IU on clinical reasoning. METHODS A scoping review was conducted using relevant keywords to scientific databases (i.e., Google Scholar, Medline, PsycINFO and PBSC) from September to November 2021. Complementary research included relevant articles and articles retrieved through Google Scholar's alert system. We included articles about healthcare professionals as defined by the French Public Health Code (As defined here: https://www.vie-publique.fr/fiches/37855-categories-de-professionnels-de-sante-code-se-la-sante-publique), and articles reporting on the impact of IU or uncertainty management on clinical reasoning. RESULTS We retrieved 1853 articles, of which 8 were kept for final analysis considering our inclusion criteria. Two behaviour categories were affected by uncertainty intolerance: investigative and prescriptive behaviours. Regarding the investigation process, mismanagement of uncertainty appeared to lead to reasoning bias, potentially resulting in diagnostic errors. IU was associated with withholding information, more referrals to peers and less use of new medical interventions. Regarding prescription behaviours, IU among health professionals could lead to overprescribing unnecessary or dangerous tests. IU was also associated with more antibiotic prescriptions for conditions where antibiotics are to be used carefully. CONCLUSION Few studies have yet addressed the impact of IU on clinical reasoning. IU's influence is primarily observed on investigative and prescribing behaviours. More studies are needed to fully understand the impact of IU on clinical reasoning itself, and not only on practical consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Brun
- Université Grenoble Alpes, TIMC-IMAG UMR CNRS 5525, ThEMAS Team, Domaine de la Merci, La Tronche, France
| | - Oulmann Zerhouni
- Laboratoire Parisien de Psychologie Sociale, EA 4386 (équipe PS2C), Nanterre, France
| | - Alexis Akinyemi
- Laboratoire Parisien de Psychologie Sociale, EA 4386 (équipe PS2C), Nanterre, France
| | - Laurène Houtin
- Laboratoire Parisien de Psychologie Sociale, EA 4386 (équipe PS2C), Nanterre, France
| | - Richard Monvoisin
- Université Grenoble Alpes, TIMC-IMAG UMR CNRS 5525, ThEMAS Team, Domaine de la Merci, La Tronche, France
| | - Nicolas Pinsault
- Université Grenoble Alpes, TIMC-IMAG UMR CNRS 5525, ThEMAS Team, Domaine de la Merci, La Tronche, France
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Knowledge and appropriateness of care of family physicians and physiotherapists in the management of shoulder pain: a survey study in the province of Quebec, Canada. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:49. [PMID: 36797670 PMCID: PMC9933814 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-01999-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shoulder pain is difficult to diagnose and treat with half of those affected still symptomatic six months after initial consultation. This may be explained by primary care management not conforming to evidence-based practice. This survey evaluated physiotherapists (PTs) and family physicians' (FPs) knowledge and appropriateness of care in shoulder pain management. METHODS A survey sent to PTs and FPs in the province of Quebec, Canada presented four clinical vignettes with cases of rotator cuff (RC) tendinopathy, acute full-thickness RC tear, adhesive capsulitis and traumatic anterior glenohumeral instability. Respondents indicated diagnosis, indications for imaging, specialists' referrals, and choice of treatments. Answers were compared to recommendations from clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). Participants' responses were compared between types of providers with Fisher's exact test. RESULTS Respondents (PTs = 175, FPs = 76) were mostly women with less than ten years of experience. More than 80% of PTs and 84% of FPs correctly diagnosed cases presented. Despite this practice not being recommended, more FPs than PTs recommended an imaging test in the initial management of RC tendinopathy (30% compared to 13%, p = 0.001) and adhesive capsulitis (51% compared to 22%, p = 0.02). For full-thickness RC tear and shoulder instability, up to 72% of FPs and 67% of PTs did not refer to a specialist for a surgical opinion, although recommended by CPGs. For RC tendinopathy, 26% of FPs and 2% of PTs (p < 0.001) would have prescribed a corticosteroid infiltration, which is not recommended in the initial management of this disorder. For adhesive capsulitis, significantly more FPs (76%) than PTs (62%) (p < 0.001) suggested an intra-articular corticosteroid infiltration, as recommended by CPGs. For all presented vignettes, up to 95% of family physicians adequately indicated they would refer patients for physiotherapy. In prioritizing rehabilitation interventions, up to 42% of PTs did not consider active exercises as a priority and up to 65% selected passive modalities that are not recommended for all shoulder pain vignettes. CONCLUSIONS Most FPs and PTs were able to make adequate diagnoses and select appropriate treatments for shoulder pain, but practices opposed to evidence-based recommendations were chosen by several respondents. Further training of FPs and PTs may be needed to optimize primary care management of different shoulder disorders.
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Rosół I, Ciesielka J, Matlakiewicz M, Grześków M, Cebula M, Gruszczyńska K, Winder M. The Assessment of the Rationale for Urgent Head CT-Comparative Analysis of Referrals and Results of Examinations without and with Contrast Enhancement. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58101468. [PMID: 36295628 PMCID: PMC9610557 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58101468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The study analyzes the correlation between the indications and results of head CT examinations in search of evidence of the excessive use of this diagnostic method. In total, 1160 referrals for urgent head CT were analyzed retrospectively, including the following parameters: patients’ sex and age, type of scan (C−, C+, angio-CT), description of symptoms and presence of diagnostic target. Pathologies identified by the radiologist were assigned to four classes, regarding the severity of diagnosed conditions. The analysis of the CT results has shown that over half (55.22%) of the examinations revealed no deviations or showed chronic, asymptomatic lesions. As many as 73.71% referrals constituted group 0 in terms of the lack of a diagnostic target of a specific pathology. The presence of specific clinical targeting in a referral correlated significantly with a higher frequency of acute diagnosis. Contrast-enhanced follow-up examinations allowed the unequivocal classification of patients into extreme classes (I or IV) and accurate identification of patients requiring urgent or chronic treatment. Excessive use of diagnostic imaging is harmful, not only to patients, who often are unnecessarily exposed to radiation, but also to the quality of healthcare, since it increases the costs and radiologists’ workload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Rosół
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, ul. Medyków 14, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Jakub Ciesielka
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, ul. Medyków 14, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Magdalena Matlakiewicz
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, ul. Medyków 14, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Michał Grześków
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, ul. Medyków 14, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Maciej Cebula
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, ul. Medyków 14, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Gruszczyńska
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, ul. Medyków 14, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Mateusz Winder
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, ul. Medyków 14, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-32-789-47-51
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