Clinical utility of the upper limb-motor learning strategy tool: exploring occupational therapists' experiences.

Abstract

To investigate the clinical utility of the newly developed Upper Limb-Motor Learning Strategy Tool (UL-MLST) within the upper limb therapy models for children with cerebral palsy. A qualitative interpretive phenomenological approach was used, incorporating four components of clinical utility to explore clinicians' experience of using the UL-MLST in practice. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a convenience sample of seven Australian-based occupational therapists who attended a three-session <i>Online Training Program</i> on the use of the UL-MLST and later used the tool in their clinical practice 4 to 6 weeks after the program. Interviews were analysed for themes and subthemes using thematic analysis and constant comparison methods. Six themes were generated from the interviews. Two themes highlighted unanimously that the UL-MLST "Builds the clinicians' capacity" and "Strengthens the clinicians and family partnerships." The remaining four themes identified, were "Strengths" of using the UL-MLST, "Navigating practical constraints" of its use, "Suggested changes," and its "Future use." The clinicians' experience of using the UL-MLST confirmed its clinical utility highlighting that it is appropriate, practicable and acceptable for use with upper limb therapy models for children with cerebral palsy, and that its accessibility is highly important.