Algo's Integrated Knowledge Translation Process in Homecare Services: A Cross-Sectional Correlational Study for Identifying its Level of Utilization and its Associated Characteristics.
Mélanie Ruest, Guillaume Léonard, Aliki Thomas and 2 others
PMID 34904899WHAT IT FOUND
Most homecare OTs did not use a new bathing equipment algorithm, even though those who knew it found it useful and easy to use.
The main barriers were organizational: unclear roles for OTs in decision-making, lack of evaluation mechanisms, and reliance on word-of-mouth rather than structured training.
Key findings
01Only 59 of 125 OTs reported reaching any level of utilization of the Algo algorithm, with most stopping at early stages like hearing about it or reading it, rather than using it in practice.
02OTs who valued scientific evidence and perceived the algorithm as useful for patient needs were more likely to use it, but organizational context, such as lack of clear policies and evaluation mechanisms, hindered its adoption.
03Word of mouth was the most common way OTs learned about the algorithm, despite participants stating a preference for structured training methods like webinars and workplace training.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for OTs
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What it does not show
The study used convenience sampling and had a low participation rate (16%), meaning the results may not represent all OTs in homecare, especially those less interested in Algo. Data was collected only from OTs, not from non-OTs or managers, so the organizational context was viewed from a single perspective. The study was cross-sectional, so it cannot prove that specific characteristics caused the utilization levels, only that they were associated. One author is the creator of Algo, which may introduce bias in the development or interpretation of the tool's characteristics.
Declared interests
One author (MG) is the creator of Algo, which can be purchased at printing costs. The other authors declared no competing interests. The work was funded by the Office des personnes handicapées du Québec and the Réseau provincial de recherche en adaptation-réadaptation (REPAR).
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume that low utilization of Algo means the tool is ineffective or that OTs resist evidence-based practice. The study found that OTs who knew the tool generally liked it, but organizational barriers like lack of policies and training prevented its widespread use.