McQuaid L, Thomson K, Bannigan K. Case study research: Building the occupational therapy evidence base one case at a time.
Scand J Occup Ther 2022;
30:435-443. [PMID:
35171068 DOI:
10.1080/11038128.2022.2039758]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
There is growing recognition in healthcare that evidence from randomised controlled trials may not be appropriate to answer the full spectrum of practice-based questions and a more pluralistic approach is needed.
AIM
To consider the use of case study research in contributing to the occupational therapy evidence base.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
A critical discussion of the current state of evidence-based practice in occupational therapy and exploration of a viable approach to case study research is used.
RESULTS
Case study research can capture the context and complexity of occupational therapy practice. Cases can then be pooled to make a substantial contribution to the evidence base.
CONCLUSIONS
Occupational therapists should consider the use of case study research to produce practice related, meaningful research. Journal editorial boards need to be mindful of the value of high-quality case study research when considering publication priorities in occupational therapy literature.
SIGNIFICANCE
Highlights a changing landscape in the literature about how best to conduct research in health and social care, particularly for complex interventions and describes a pragmatic approach to case study research for occupational therapy.
Collapse