Occupational therapists' perceptions of evidence-based practice

Occupational therapists are increasingly urged to carry out evidenced-based practice; however, little is known regarding their present practice and pe rceptions of evidence-based practice. To explore this phenomenon, a qualita tive study was completed using a grounded theory approach. Semistructured i nterviews were carried out with eight occupational therapists who worked in diverse practice settings. Participants were asked to reflect on their own views of evidence-based practice and their use of evidence in therapy Data were analyzed inductively wing constant comparison analysis. Participants' perceptions of evidence-based practice were described in three broad categ ories. To these occupational therapists, evidence-based practice is: (a) a process of looking for understanding (b) associated with research, and (c) a potential threat to the occupational therapist. These findings produce a basis from which recommendations are made to increase the use of evidence-b ased practice by occupational therapists.