Title : Physiotherapists ’ perceptions of Continuing Professional Development ( CPD ).
Nicola Parker
Introduction : Despite being essential for HCPC registration , variability in CPD uptake was identified locally . Previous research did not explore personal opinions or experiences of CPD . This evaluation was undertaken to aid planning and delivery of an effective in-house CPD program for clinical staff .
Methods : A generic qualitative approach was taken using semi-structured interviews of 7 participants . Volunteers were selected from an initial questionnaire using their duration of qualified work and their CPD experiences to achieve the most data-rich purposeful sample . Thematic analysis was conducted .
Results : Three main themes were identified : ( 1 ) What is good CPD ?; ( 2 ) Self-efficacy links with CPD and ; ( 3 ) The relationship between CPD and career progression are indistinct . Participants felt that “ good CPD ” meant training relevant to physiotherapy clinical practice . Non-clinical activity and Advanced Practice skills were perceived to be detached from their perception of physiotherapy and not always considered as CPD . CPD was felt to be valuable where it reassured physiotherapists that their practice was appropriate . Self-efficacy was identified as a barrier and a driver , with a significant impact upon CPD choices ; some participants feared that courses might reduce their clinical confidence ; others felt they did not need development if they had sufficient self-belief in their current practice . A degree of resilience seemed required to engage in CPD activity .
Conclusions : Self-efficacy underpins successful CPD ; recognition and promotion of this has potential to change the focus of CPD research and its implementation . Further qualitative studies are needed to understand the physiotherapists ’ feelings towards advanced practice and non-clinical skills . Greater clarity from employers , the CSP and higher education institutes to link CPD with career development is necessary .
Impact :
• Self-efficacy is required in CPD to promote critical thinking and integration of evidence into practice
• Possible barriers were identified around the development of advanced practice and non-clinical skills which may influence the future of our profession
• ‘ Best ’ versus ‘ better ’ practice to measure clinical success
• Links between best practice and self-efficacy