Variation determinants within massage therapists' professional identity.

OBJECTIVES: Individuals have multiple, competing identities that vary in importance to the self. Professional identity is a way in which individuals attribute meaning to their contribution to society and is influenced by complex factors. Globally, the roles and responsibilities of massage therapists (MTs) vary, making it challenging to articulate a cohesive professional identity. This article describes the investigation into the variables which influenced response regarding MTs' professional identity in Ontario, Canada. METHODS: An online questionnaire was distributed to active MTs with available email addresses in the public register of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario. Chi-square tests of independence were used to compare dependent variables with independent variables. Significance was adjusted post hoc, using Bonferroni's correction, to reduce the chance of a type I error occurring. The threshold for significance was adjusted from p≤0.05 to p≤0.01 as multiple analyses were conducted with a high response rate. RESULTS: The results provided insight into the variables associated with differences in responses. Variation was seen based on gender, primary practice setting, length in practice, additional education, additional roles within the profession, additional designation as a healthcare provider, and membership in the RMTAO (Registered Massage Therapists' Association of Ontario). CONCLUSIONS: While previous studies sought to describe the common and unifying features of MTs' identity, these findings provide insight into variables that determine differences in responses. These findings are valuable for the development of future studies. They provide a priori assumptions regarding the inclusion of these demographic items that can inform decisions regarding enrollment of the sample and data analysis.

Identification of common features within massage therapists' professional identity.

OBJECTIVES: In Ontario, Canada, MTs are regulated and have a common scope of practice. However, diverse practice settings and approaches to care create a need for MTs to articulate their professional identity. This study sought to answer, "what common features are foundational to the professional identity of MTs in Ontario?" METHODS: This quantitative research study was a part of a larger exploratory sequential mixed methods study. An online questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted based on previous qualitative findings. MTs in Ontario, who held an active certificate, were invited to participate. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: The analysis revealed 17 common features that were endorsed by most respondents. Participants also reported thinking of themselves as healthcare professionals, rather than service providers, a feeling that was held across practice settings. Interesting and unexpected differences were noted in statements regarding the perception of MTs, areas of profession-specific knowledge, and the establishment of the therapeutic relationship. CONCLUSIONS: This study furthers an understanding of MTs' identity. Specifically, MTs consider themselves to be HCPs who are confident in their knowledge and abilities, especially their communication skills. They believe in providing individualized care and empowering their patients to take charge of their own health. Despite areas of overwhelming agreement, disagreement in endorsement was seen in areas such as MTs perception of their external image, use of evidence in practice, and the establishment of professional boundaries. These areas provide an opportunity for future research to continue to develop a body of knowledge regarding MTs professionalism and identity.

Preparing for an Influenza Pandemic: Hospital Acceptance Study of Filtering Facepiece Respirator Decontamination Using Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation.

OBJECTIVES: Predictions estimate supplies of filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) would be limited in the event of a severe influenza pandemic. Ultraviolet decontamination and reuse (UVDR) is a potential approach to mitigate an FFR shortage. A field study sought to understand healthcare workers' perspectives and potential logistics issues related to implementation of UVDR methods for FFRs in hospitals. METHODS: Data were collected at three hospitals using a structured guide to conduct 19 individual interviews, 103 focus group interviews, and 285 individual surveys. Data were then evaluated using thematic analysis to reveal key themes. RESULTS: Data revealed noteworthy variation in FFR use across the sample, along with preferences and requirements for the use of UVDR, unit design, and FFR reuse. Based on a scale of 1 (low) to 10 (high), the mean perception of safety in a high mortality pandemic wearing no FFR was 1.25 of 10, wearing an FFR for an extended period without decontamination was 4.20 of 10, and using UVDR was 7.72 of 10. CONCLUSIONS: In addition to technical design and development, preparation and training will be essential to successful implementation of a UVDR program. Ultraviolet decontamination and reuse program design and implementation must account for actual clinical practice, compliance with regulations, and practical financial considerations to be successfully adopted so that it can mitigate potential FFR shortages in a pandemic.

"I am a healthcare practitioner": A qualitative exploration of massage therapists' professional identity.

BackgroundA division has been described among massage therapists, some who identify as healthcare providers while others identify as service providers. The perceived division creates confusion about what it means to be a massage therapist. ObjectiveThis qualitative study answered, "How do massage therapists in Ontario describe their professional identity?" MethodsQualitative description (QD) was used and data were collected from 33 massage therapists using semi-structured interviews. ResultsThe resulting description of massage therapists' identity in Ontario is the first of its kind. The identity described includes passion as professional motivation in practice, the importance of confidence and competence, a focus on the therapeutic relationship, individualized care, and patient empowerment, and a desire to be recognized for their role within the healthcare system. ConclusionThere is still much to be investigated about massage therapists' identity. Future research will explore whether this description resonates with a larger sample of massage therapists in Ontario.

The merit of mandatory interprofessional education for pre-health professional students.

BACKGROUND: Since the World Health Organization identified interprofessional education (IPE) as an important component of primary health care in 1978, health sciences educators continue to debate when it might be best to introduce IPE into the academic training of health professionals. While IPE continues to be offered at increasingly early stages in students' professional development, few if any IPE initiatives have targeted undergraduate pre-health professional students who are likely to enter health professional programs. OBJECTIVES: To design, execute and evaluate the effectiveness of a mandatory IPE initiative targeting students in their first year of a general undergraduate health science education. METHODS: An integrated exercise was created to introduce students to eight health professions and the underlying concepts of interprofessionalism through self-directed independent research, problem-based learning and collaborative group discussions. A two-part questionnaire was developed using a seven point Likert scale to assess the participants' perceived changes in knowledge, interests, and attitudes. RESULTS: A total of 161 students (99.4%) completed both instruments. Pre and post-exercise responses (n = 161) indicated meaningful improvements in students' knowledge on the specific roles of different health professionals (p < 0.001), knowledge on the value of interprofessionalism (p < 0.001), interests in pursuing the various health professions as future careers (p = 0.075), and attitudes towards IPE (p < 0.001). Post-exercise data also revealed that students acquired valuable knowledge and gained a strong interest in learning more about the various health professions as a result of this exercise. CONCLUSIONS: Participation in this short, one-time IPE exercise resulted in profound changes in attitudes, interests, and knowledge amongst participating students. Based on these changes, mandatory IPE for pre-health professional students is merited but additional research on this topic is necessary.