Occupational Therapists' perspectives of implementing a new rehabilitation intervention for visual field loss due to stroke.

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators of implementing rehabilitation interventions for visual field loss due to stroke.

Methods: The study was a qualitative exploration using one-to-one interviews coded using template analysis and the COM-B a-priori framework. Participants were five occupational therapists from hospital (n=4) and community (n=1) National Health Service (NHS) stroke care settings in England. The intervention experienced by the participant was a standardized goal-based visual scanning and search training for stroke survivors with visual field loss, delivered by occupational therapists (OTs), supported by information sheets and a dedicated website (HABIT).

Results: HABIT provides a structured approach for delivering scanning and visual search training. HABIT resources aided participants' understanding and self-management. HABIT was considered similar to current practice as practiced by study participants and of most value to trainees and newly qualified therapists. However, resources had limited accessibility due to a lack of computer access and difficulty in reading text; modifications were required to make training activity examples more suitable for ward settings. Within ward settings, the delivery of HABIT was highly limited by time constraints; therapists ranked activities linked to safety and early discharge as higher priority. Clinicians noted that stroke survivors' lack of awareness of their visual loss and its impact limited their engagement with the HABIT, making delivery difficult.

Conclusion: Prioritization of vision rehabilitation in highly pressurized acute settings is a key factor in implementing HABIT. The findings will enable further refinement of HABIT content and delivery to address the barriers identified and improve its suitability in acute hospital settings.