Pediatric Physical Therapists' Use of the Congenital Muscular Torticollis Clinical Practice Guidelines: A Qualitative Implementation Study.

Abstract

This study is a follow-up to the quantitative survey to examine the perceptions of pediatric physical therapists (PTs) on the application of the 2013 Congenital Muscular Torticollis Clinical Practice Guideline (CMT CPG). Qualitative semi-structured telephone interviews were completed. Interview questions focused on how the guidelines influenced practice, facilitators and barriers to implementation, and knowledge translation activities. Thirteen pediatric PTs from a variety of practice settings participated. Positive perceptions about the CMT CPG included the use of flow charts, synthesized literature in one place, and validation of examination and intervention approaches. Negative perceptions included its length and that approaches without published evidence were not addressed. Three major themes were identified: knowledge and evidence for practice, education of clinicians, and the CPG structure and components that influenced practice. The CMT CPG provided a number of benefits. Recommendations for future enhancement and development are provided.