Implementing the BREATHS Framework for Respiratory Muscle Training: A Knowledge Translation Project

Purpose: There is sufficient evidence supporting the benefits of respiratory muscle training in patients with a wide variety of health conditions. The BREATHS framework is a 7-step evidence-based knowledge translation framework designed to support the implementation of inspiratory muscle training into clinical practice. In this Knowledge Translation project, the BREATHS framework was used to implement respiratory muscle assessment and training, inclusive of both inspiratory and expiratory training, among an outpatient neurologic multidisciplinary therapy team consisting of physical, occupational, and speech therapists. Methods: The BREATHS framework was used to structure a knowledge translation project consisting of educational in-services and clinician resources development. A pre, during, and post-survey model with descriptive statistics was used to assess for baseline and changes among clinicians regarding knowledge, confidence, and behaviors after dissemination of the knowledge translation project. Results: Participants demonstrated confidence related to assessment and training of respiratory muscles as well as increased implementation in clinical care of respiratory muscle assessment and training. Conclusion: The BREATHS framework can serve as a practical model for implementing knowledge translation of respiratory muscle assessment and training into physical therapy practice. Further work is needed to understand stakeholder perspectives on utilization of respiratory muscle training and to measure change in practice.