Barriers and Facilitators of Implementing Arabic-Validated Standardised Outcome Measures for Chronic Stroke Rehabilitation Among Physical Therapists

BackgroundImplementing standardised outcome measures (SOMs) in stroke rehabilitation practices enhances patient care, communication, and overall clinical effectiveness. However, the implementation of Arabic-validated SOMs in stroke rehabilitation practices among Arabic-speaking patients has not been fully explored.AimsTo examine the use, facilitators, and barriers of implementing Arabic-validated SOMs for chronic stroke rehabilitation among physical therapists.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among 262 physical therapists managing patients with chronic stroke. The survey evaluated the use, facilitators, and barriers to implementing Arabic-validated SOMs. Descriptive statistics summarised demographic and professional characteristics, while multivariate logistic regression identified independent predictors of SOM use, with adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals calculated.ResultsThe use of Arabic-validated SOMs in chronic stroke rehabilitation was reported by 54% of therapists within the first week of physical therapy services and 64% at discharge. The Berg Balance Scale and the Timed Up and Go test were the two most commonly employed scales. Facilitators for implementing SOMs included facilitating adherence to clinical practice guidelines, providing valuable patient insights, and supporting balanced assessments. Barriers included time constraints, financial limitations, and time demands on both patients and therapists. Familiarity with clinical practice guidelines was significantly associated with increased use of Arabic-validated SOMs.ConclusionsImplementing Arabic-validated SOMs is essential to ensure culturally appropriate and linguistically accurate evaluations that support evidence-based decision-making and enhance patient management in stroke rehabilitation among Arabic-speaking patients. Enhancing familiarity with clinical practice guidelines and addressing barriers such as time constraints and financial challenges can further promote the implementation of Arabic-validated SOMs into routine practice, ultimately improving patient outcomes.