Promoting evidence-based practice in stroke care in Australia

Abstract

To explore approaches to the promotion of evidence-based practice from academic and clinical perspectives by visiting acute stroke units and collaborating centres of the Joanna Briggs Institute, an international network of academic centres. A semi-structured interview schedule was developed, piloted and used to guide interviews with academic and clinical staff in five state capital cities in Australia. Data were analysed and findings reviewed by clinical and academic participants. Four distinct but not mutually exclusive models and common but variously applied pathways for translation of evidence into clinical practice were identified. Key influential factors included context and local culture, the nature of evidence and role of clinical expertise. Implementation and change management strategies were recognised as emerging priorities. A range of methods to advance research synthesis, dissemination and knowledge transfer into clinical practice were demonstrated and may warrant consideration for the UK.