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Abstract

The field of occupational therapy (OT) and healthcare in general have made great strides in enhancing their scientific rigor through study methodologies that prioritize internal validity. However, concerns regarding reproducibility and replicability in research have cast doubt on traditional evidence-based models. This paper critically examines the limitations of an over-reliance on internal validity in evidence reviews and advocates for a multi-dimensional approach to evidence-based practice. By integrating methodological holism, contextual analysis, and a critical appraisal of external validity, this approach provides practitioners with a more nuanced and applicable framework for decision-making. The implications for research credibility and clinical confidence are discussed, along with recommendations for implementing this model within occupational therapy practice.

Plain Language Summary

Occupational therapy (OT) and healthcare have worked hard to improve the quality of their research. Most studies focus on being very exact within the study itself. But a big problem is that many results cannot be repeated, which makes it harder to trust the research. This paper explains why it is not enough to only look at one kind of study quality. It suggests using a wider view that also considers real-world situations and whether results apply to everyday practice. This new way can help therapists make better decisions and feel more confident in their research. The paper also shares ideas on how OT can use this approach in practice.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.32873/unmc.dc.tso.3.1.04

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.

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