Date of Completion

2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy

Keywords

Evidence-based practice (EBP), patient care, physical therapy, evidence-based clinical decision-making

Abstract

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is essential for ensuring effective, high-quality patient care in physical therapy. However, limited local research exists on the specific barriers and facilitators that influence EBP use at the internship level, creating a gap in understanding how future professionals engage in evidence-based clinical decision-making. The study aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators affecting the selection of EBP-based interventions among Physical Therapy interns at a selected Higher Education Institution in Cavite, Philippines, and to examine how these factors shaped their clinical decision-making during internship. The study used a qualitative descriptive design, conducting Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with 13 fourth-year Physical Therapy interns chosen through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed thematically following Braun and Clarke's six-phase approach and organized using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to group findings into five areas: Intervention Characteristics, Inner setting, Outer setting, Characteristics of Individuals, and Process of Implementation. Findings showed that interns' application of EBP was shaped by a mix of personal, institutional, and environmental factors. Barriers included lack of time, limited access to research materials, strict hospital rules, hierarchical structures in clinical settings, and reliance on supervisors' or physicians' instructions. Facilitators included strong clinical reasoning, adaptability, personal motivation, patient-centered decision-making, and positive patient outcomes when EBP was used. The study concludes that although interns showed readiness and positive views toward EBP, consistent use was still limited by systemic and environmental factors within the clinical learning setting. This highlights the need for institutional support to strengthen EBP integration during internship training.

First Advisor

Marivic D. Valerio

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