Effectiveness of Knowledge Translation Strategies on Organisational Culture and Patient Outcomes: A Systematic Review

Abstract Background: Knowledge Translation (KT) Frameworks are commonly used in healthcare settings to integrate evidence into practice. However, little is known about how these KT frameworks affect organisational change including culture and patient safety outcomes in healthcare settings. Methods: A systematic review was undertaken. Five databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, ProQuest and Web of Science were searched with publications screened from January 2016 – July 2021. A blinded screening process was undertaken by all authors and conflicts resolved through open discussion. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used for quality appraisal. Results: Database search yielded a total of 1498 results, with only four studies included for data extraction and narrative synthesis. Three studies reported on patient safety outcomes, using Translational Simulation, Comprehensive Unit-based Safety Program (CUSP)/ Translating Research Into Practice (TRIP) model and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) framework. Only one study reported on organisational culture and used the Best-Practice Spotlight Organization (BPSO) Program. Factors that inhibited successful KT framework implementation relate to organisational and workforce issues such as staff attrition and secondments, staff not being released for education and an absence of commitment to the program at the executive level. Establishing and maintaining effective lines of communication and transparent reporting resulted in successful implementation outcomes. Conclusion: Various KT frameworks and strategies are used across healthcare settings to guide the development and evaluation of implementation projects and quality improvement initiatives. However, the impact of knowledge translation strategies on organisational culture and patient outcomes remains unclear, poorly described and under researched. Future research needs to be undertaken to explore the barriers and facilitators of knowledge translation processes and its impact on organisational change, culture and patient safety outcomes. Protocol Registration: This review was registered with the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO), ID: CRD42021265470on 02/07/21. The design and methods used for this systematic review will be informed by and comply with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) (Moher et al., 2015).