Physiotherapy Practice in Flemish Nursing Homes

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Mapping therapy sessions: Mapping therapy sessions provided by physical therapists in Flemish nursing homes

Study summary

The goal of this observational study is to evaluate the extent to which physiotherapy sessions in Flemish nursing homes adhere to the IAGG-GARN guidelines and to explore factors influencing clinical practice among physiotherapists.

The study targets multiple nursing homes across Flanders, with 3 to 5 centers in each of the provinces of Limburg, Antwerp, and Flemish Brabant. This selection ensures variation in geographic location and organizational context. The participants in this study are physiotherapists working in the participating nursing homes.

The main questions it aims to answer are:

* To what extent do the physiotherapy sessions align with the IAGG-GARN guidelines?
* Are there differences in physiotherapy session content and volume according to physiotherapist characteristics and resident characteristics?
* What barriers and facilitators do physiotherapists experience when implementing guideline-based practice in Flemish nursing homes?

Researchers will observe physiotherapy sessions delivered as part of routine care and document session content and duration using structured observation diaries. Participating physiotherapists will also take part in focus groups discussing experiences with guideline implementation, barriers, facilitators, and clinical decision-making.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Guideline Adherence to IAGG-GARN Recommendations — 2 weeks
  Overall adherence of physiotherapy sessions in Flemish nursing homes to IAGG-GARN recommendations. Adherence is assessed through structured direct observation of the routine physiotherapy sessions. The secondary outcomes are operationalize adherence to the guideline (frequency, exercise intensity, exercise duration, exercise type and personalization)

Trial sites (3)

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