Quality activities: Utilising evidence and informing clinical research

This paper defines and contextualises quality activities and clinical research within occupational therapy. Their characteristics are explained using a clinical example and cyclical models. It is argued that quality activities are a means by which clinicians can utilise existing research evidence and inform further clinical research. To familiarise clinicians with the quality activity process, a framework to assist them to engage in and analyse quality activities is presented. Quality activities and clinical research are compared to clarify their similarities and differences. It is proposed that quality activities are an important strategy for clinicians to be informed consumers and contributors to clinical research while maintaining high quality client care.