Affiliations: School of Occupation & Leisure Sciences, Faculty
of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, PO Box 170, Lidcombe, NSW 1825,
Australia. Tel.: +61 2 9351 9209; Fax: +61 2 9351 9197; E-mail:
E.Innes@fhs.usyd.edu.au | School of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences,
Curtin University of Technology, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845, Australia
Note: [] Corresponding author
Abstract: Objectives: The purpose of this study was to understand the current
beliefs of therapists in Australia, and the strategies they use to address the
issues of credibility, reliability, consistency, trustworthiness, validity,
generalisability and quality in conducting work-related assessments. Study design: In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted
with 26 occupational therapists and physiotherapists from around Australia.
Findings: Participants expressed the belief that the therapist was
the assessment instrument and was central to the credibility of an assessment.
Conflict was reported when participants modified standardised assessments in an
attempt to focus on context relevant activities and tasks. Participants were
aware of the issues of reliability and validity but believed it was not
practical to establish these aspects formally in most work-related assessments.
The strategies used to achieve credibility, reliability, consistency,
trustworthiness, validity, generalisability and quality were similar to those
recommended for use in qualitative research. Conclusions: The strategies identified in this study can provide the
basis for therapists to examine how they conduct work-related assessments and
consider whether they currently use these strategies or have the opportunity to
implement others.
