ScholarWorks > HHS > OT > OJOT > Vol. 12 > Iss. 3 (2024)
Credentials Display
Dr. Keith Gentry, EdD, MSOT, OTR/L, SCFES, SCLV; Dr. Tammy LeSage, EdD, MOT, OTR/L; Devin Hebble, MOT, OTR/L; Lilly Adams, MOT, OTR/L; Ashlyn Watts, MOT, OTR/L
Abstract
Background: Physical agent modalities (PAMs) are used by occupational therapists to prepare for or facilitate participation in purposeful activities. However, little has been published in the last quarter century regarding how U.S. occupational therapists use and are prepared to use of PAMs in contemporary clinical practice. In this study, U.S.-based occupational therapists were surveyed regarding their use of PAMs, preparation for use, and perceptions of that preparation.
Methods: Survey data was collected from a purposive sample of 141 U.S.-based occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants as part of this exploratory-descriptive, mixed-methods study. Thematic and descriptive statistical analyses were completed using quantitative and qualitative data.
Results: Quantitative data provided a current profile of types, frequency, and settings in which PAMs are used, along with sources and perceptions of training. Qualitative data yielded three themes, including (a) benefit of experiential learning, (b) benefit of continuing education, and (c) relative adequacy of entry-level training.
Conclusions: Findings from this study serve as an initial step in understanding contemporary use of PAMs in clinical occupational therapy practice. Further study is needed to expand the knowledge base in the profession and support an evidence-informed approach to care.
Recommended Citation
Gentry, K., LeSage, T., Hebble, D., Adams, L., & Watts, A. (2024). Preparation and Use of Physical Agent Modalities Among U.S. Occupational Therapists: A Mixed-Methods, Exploratory-Descriptive Study. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 12(3), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.2247
Comments
The authors declare that they have no competing financial, professional, or personal interest that might have influenced the performance or presentation of the work described in this manuscript.