ABSTRACT

Objective: This study investigated the attitudes and implementation abilities of occupational therapists treating stroke patients toward evidence-based practice (EBP), the type of organizational culture, and barriers to EBP within their institution. Methods: An online questionnaire was distributed to 200 occupational therapists between February and July 2023. The data were analyzed using a frequency analysis and technical statistics. A correlation analysis was also conducted. Results: Occupational therapists agreed that EBP should be used in clinical practice (78.5%) and would positively affect their identity (76.5%). However, therapists found interpreting the research literature (44.0%) and judging its quality (35.0%) challenging. Among the types of organizational culture related to EBP, relationship culture was most relevant. Most opinions on barriers to EBP involved time outside of work hours for a literature search (61.5%). The organizational cultures that had the highest correlation with attitudes and implementation ability were the progression and relationship cultures. Conclusion: The study findings suggest that relevant education is required to improve the implementation abilities of therapists who treat stroke patients. Thus, education is needed in deducing questions for EBP or determining the quality of research. To improve the quality of treatment, organizational support and advanced organizational culture are necessary.