MUSCOOT: MUltiple SClerosis Outcomes in Occupational Therapy: A Scoping Review Protocol

Objective: The objective of this scoping review is to map the outcomes and the outcome measures used by occupational therapists working with adults with multiple sclerosis (MS). Introduction Occupational therapists are uniquely positioned to support people with MS in overcoming difficulties with daily functioning and enabling them to engage with their chosen occupations in a meaningful way. A key issue which limits the ability to evaluate the clinical efficacy of occupational therapy interventions for people with MS is the heterogeneity of outcomes measured across intervention studies. This review will provide a comprehensive catalogue of outcomes and outcome instruments currently being used by occupational therapists in studies targeting people with MS. Inclusion criteria We developed a robust search strategy to encompass studies which focused on adults with multiple sclerosis (population), reported the use of at least one outcome measure (concept) and were occupational therapy-based (context). Methods We will carry out a search in four databases: MEDLINE, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Two or more independent reviewers will assess the abstracts of selected records against the inclusion criteria, and a third independent researcher will resolve any conflicts. We will record and report all excluded papers in the review, including the reasons for their exclusion. We will use a PRISMA flow diagram to document the screening process. We will present the main findings and collected data in tabular form and provide a narrative summary describing how the results relate to the review’s research questions. This will allow us to map what outcomes occupational therapists prioritise when working with people with MS, identify gaps and inform future research in the area.