Article

Purpose: To describe the knowledge, attitudes, and current practices of Canadian
physiotherapists in preventing and managing diabetes. Methods: Members of the
Canadian Physiotherapy Association were recruited by email to participate in a
Web-based survey. The survey contained 40 items in four domains: demographics and
education, attitudes and beliefs, current practices, and knowledge of diabetes. A descriptive analysis was completed for all the response variables from the
survey. Results: A total of 401 physiotherapists from 10 provinces and 2
territories participated. Respondents were most confident in providing education
about exercise and had decreasing confidence in providing education about
managing secondary complications, weight management, blood sugar control, and
nutrition, respectively. Only 32.4% of participants offered diabetes management
counselling, citing lack of training. Knowledge was generally good, except for
activity guidelines. Conclusions: A significant proportion of physiotherapists
lack confidence in providing key aspects of care to patients with diabetes. Gaps
in clinical practice and knowledge of activity guidelines were also observed.
This study highlights the need to review entry-level physiotherapy training and
to develop continuing educational opportunities in this area.

Langue : ANGLAIS