Anne Griffin, Helen Conway, Jacqueline Chawke, Megan Keane, Pauline Douglas, Dervla Kelly
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Integrating nutrition care into physiotherapy can address modifiable risk factors contributing to chronic diseases, providing comprehensive and effective patient care, and supporting a wellness-oriented approach to healthcare.
Objective: To investigate physiotherapists' self-perceived confidence in their competence in nutrition care in Ireland.
Methods: Cross-sectional study using data from a validated online survey tool. Four constructs of competence in nutrition care were assessed: knowledge, skill, communication and counseling, and attitude. Open-ended responses were collected to gather opinions on nutrition knowledge requirements. Participants were chartered physiotherapists representing public and private workplaces across geographical settings in Ireland.
Results: 447 physiotherapists completed the survey. Most were female (n = 364, 81%), in private practice (n = 136, 31%), and located in a city (n = 215, 48%) with a mean 17 years post-qualification experience. Participants' self-perceived confidence in nutrition care competence was positive (mean score of 107.2/175). However, knowledge (mean score of 18.5/35) and skills (mean score of 27.2/55) related to nutrition care received lower ratings. Age and years of practice were positively associated with higher confidence in providing nutrition care. Most participants (n = 314, 71%) agreed that additional nutrition education is needed. Three overarching themes were identified regarding nutrition knowledge requirements: importance of providing nutrition advice, stated knowledge needs for nutrition education and training, and feasibility of nutrition care within physiotherapy practice.
Conclusions: Physiotherapists in Ireland have confidence in provision of nutrition care but rated their knowledge and skills in nutrition as relatively low. Nutrition knowledge and skill are essential for physiotherapist practice as they can significantly impact patients' outcomes.
期刊介绍：
The aim of Physiotherapy Theory and Practice is to provide an international, peer-reviewed forum for the publication, dissemination, and discussion of recent developments and current research in physiotherapy/physical therapy. The journal accepts original quantitative and qualitative research reports, theoretical papers, systematic literature reviews, clinical case reports, and technical clinical notes. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice; promotes post-basic education through reports, reviews, and updates on all aspects of physiotherapy and specialties relating to clinical physiotherapy.
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