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Expert opinions on knowledge-translation interventions for occupational therapists working with neonates in South Africa: A Delphi study


Samantha J. York
Gina Rencken
Michael O. Ogunlana
Ayesha Dawood
Pragashnie Govender

Abstract

Background: There is a paucity of literature on knowledge translation (KT) interventions for occupational therapists (OTs) in assessing and caring for  the neonate and at-risk infant. Care at this stage of life is paramount, requiring a shift from the survival of the neonate, to the quality of survival. Consequently, clinicians working with neonates have a crucial role in ensuring optimal development and preventing long-term adverse  developmental outcomes.


Aim: This study aimed to explore experts’ opinions on KT interventions for OTs working with neonates and at-risk infants in South Africa.


Setting: This study was located in South Africa. Due to the virtual nature of data collection, no geographical limitations within the country were imposed.


Method: A two-round Delphi study with a multidisciplinary expert panel (n = 20; n = 18) was conducted. The round one survey was developed based  on a literature review, findings from a preceding focus group, and a pilot study. The subsequent round was based on the data and comments  generated from the first round. Results were pooled and presented to participants following both rounds.


Results: Consensus on 127 items out of 130 was achieved. These included consensus on the definition of KT in neonatal care, the knowledge that  OTs should possess, professional competencies, skills required, professional values, and characteristics. Further agreement was reached on the KT  process, the usefulness of KT modalities, recommended courses in neonatal care, barriers to KT, best-practice and requirements for undergraduate  training.


Conclusion: Knowledge translation required for OTs working with neonates and at-risk infants were established in this study.


Contribution: This  study may be useful for consideration in contextually relevant KT interventions for clinicians working in neonatal care. 


Journal Identifiers


eISSN: 2071-9736
print ISSN: 1025-9848