Perceptions of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Acute Care Pediatric Physical Therapy

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the perceptions and experiences of acute care pediatric physical therapists (PTs) regarding the use of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and to understand the influence of PROMs on clinical decision-making and the plan of care. Methods: Thirteen acute care pediatric PTs participated in individual semistructured interviews using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Interview questions focused on how PROMs influence clinical practice and decision-making. Interviews also explored scenarios where using PROMs positively or negatively impacted patient and caregiver interactions. Researchers analyzed the interview transcripts using an inductive process to generate codes and resultant themes. Results: Participants described their experiences using PROMs in pediatric acute care, and 4 themes emerged: (1) PROMs can be difficult to implement in pediatric acute care, (2) PROMs can benefit pediatric acute care practice, (3) PROMs can improve service delivery and family-centered care, and (4) ideal PROM use in future practice. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) was used to categorize positive and negative factors related to implementing evidence-based guidelines in the pediatric acute care setting. Conclusions: Acute care pediatric PTs report benefits and barriers to using PROMs with children and caregivers in the hospital setting. Findings support the need for future knowledge translation initiatives to facilitate the use of PROMs in pediatric acute care.