Factors that influence the clinical decision making of novice and experienced physical therapists.

Background: The depth and breadth of prior experience informs clinical decision making in novice and experienced physical therapist clinicians.

Objectives: The aims of this research were to identify differences in clinical decision-making abilities and processes between novice and experienced physical therapist clinicians and to develop a model of the factors that influence clinical decision making.

Design: Qualitative research methods and grounded theory were used to gain insight into the factors and experiences that inform clinical decision making.

Novice and experienced physical therapist clinicians: a comparison of how reflection is used to inform the clinical decision-making process.

Background: Prior experience informs clinical decision making and shapes how reflection is used by novice and experienced physical therapist clinicians.

Objectives: The aims of this research were: (1) to determine the types and extent of reflection that informs the clinical decision-making process and (2) to compare the use of reflection to direct and assess clinical decisions made by novice and experienced physical therapists.

Design: Qualitative research methods using grounded theory were used to gain insight into how physical therapists use reflection to inform clinical decision making.