Abstract
Background: Veterinary physiotherapy and hydrotherapy are popular modalities in the United Kingdom (UK) yet little is known about the confidence of therapists responsible for performing these treatments. A lack of confidence may have a detrimental impact on patients, therefore, this study investigated the effect of age, species specialisation, educational level, occupation, qualifications, experience, and years practising as an animal therapist on confidence in executing professional skills.
Methods: Quantitative data were collected to investigate UK-based therapists’ confidence when completing Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) via an online survey, whilst interviews explored perceptions of therapy qualifications and personal experiences in clinical practice.
Results: Occupation, educational level and therapy qualification had a significant effect (p<0.05) on EPAs. Experience had a significant effect (p<0.05) on four EPAs; those with less than one year of experience had the lowest confidence scores, with increased experience in the animal industry and as an animal therapist resulting in a rise in confidence.
Limitations: This study relied on participants reporting their own limitations and could have further explored why animal therapists choose to obtain specific qualifications.
Conclusions: Providing support to new graduates may improve their confidence. In addition, it is important that qualifications prepare animal therapists for clinical practice.
Methods: Quantitative data were collected to investigate UK-based therapists’ confidence when completing Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) via an online survey, whilst interviews explored perceptions of therapy qualifications and personal experiences in clinical practice.
Results: Occupation, educational level and therapy qualification had a significant effect (p<0.05) on EPAs. Experience had a significant effect (p<0.05) on four EPAs; those with less than one year of experience had the lowest confidence scores, with increased experience in the animal industry and as an animal therapist resulting in a rise in confidence.
Limitations: This study relied on participants reporting their own limitations and could have further explored why animal therapists choose to obtain specific qualifications.
Conclusions: Providing support to new graduates may improve their confidence. In addition, it is important that qualifications prepare animal therapists for clinical practice.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | Veterinary Record |
| Publication status | Accepted/In press - 9 Sept 2024 |