Background
In a before-and-after study, 9 hospitals were provided with a toolkit, comprising a guide, app, and video, describing learning sessions (LSs) for administering the 10-metre and 6-minute walk tests and interpreting results. This study explored professional leaders’ (PLs) and physical therapists’ (PTs) experiences using the toolkit.

Methods
Data from interviews with 7 PLs and focus groups with 33 PTs were analyzed using a realist approach. 

Results
Four main experiences emerged. 1-In acute-care, PLs marked permanent walkways and implemented LSs. After using the app to practice walk tests and interpret results with patients, PTs used walk tests on high functioning patients, and had intentions to continue. 2-In acute-care settings without a PL, PTs did not mark walkways, had difficulty managing LSs, did not practice tests with patients, described tests as irrelevant, and had no intentions to use them in future. 3-In rehabilitation settings, the PL was replaced during the study. PTs completed LSs. Some PTs regarded the toolkit positively while others did not. Some inpatient PTs committed to using the walk tests. Outpatient PTs did not regard gait speed as important but continued using the 6-minute walk. 4-In rehabilitation settings, the on/offsite PL set up walkways, and facilitated LSs. PTs viewed the toolkit positively; most agreed tests were applicable to patients unable to walk 6 minutes continuously and/or who required assistance. PTs practiced and used tests and interpreted results with patients.
Conclusions
PL facilitation and opportunities to practice walk tests with patients may help foster beliefs needed to motivate use of walk tests post-stroke.

UNDERSTANDING EXPERIENCES USING A TOOLKIT TO IMPLEMENT THE 10-METRE AND 6-MINUTE WALK TESTS POST-STROKE ACROSS THE CARE CONTINUUM: A QUALITATIVE REALIST ANALYSIS