Occupational therapy assessments used in acute physical care settings

Abstract

Occupational therapists' expertise lies in interviewing clients and in skilled observations of function. Standardized ADL assessments could complement occupational therapy practice but further research is needed to determine their value. In the final analysis, assessments should ensure that that both safety and client/carer concerns are at the centre of decision-making.

Occupational therapy practice in acute physical hospital settings: Evidence from a scoping review

“…Publications addressing the occupational therapists role in the discharge process noticeably progress from the year 2000 onwards, where a growing emphasis on reducing length of stay and subsequently minimising costs to the health-care system is noted (Blaga & Robertson, 2008;Carlill, Gash & Hawkins, 2002;Craig et al, 2004;Crennan & MacRae, 2010;Griffin & McConnell, 2001;Holm, 2012;Li-Tsang, 2003;Mearns, Millar, Murray & Fraser, 2008;Roberts & Robinson, 2014;L. Robertson & Blaga, 2013;Welch & Forster, 2003;Welch & Lowes, 2005).…”

“…Therapists identified feelings of disconnect with the underlying philosophy of the profession when they were not able to 'do more' for their clients (Griffin & McConnell, 2001;Wilding & Whiteford, 2008). Concerns regarding an inability to fully meet professional and personal expectations in this setting were particularly noted by younger therapists (Griffin & McConnell;Robertson & Blaga, 2013). A cycle of assessment and discharge (Griffin) often left little time for other areas of occupational performance to be assessed and treated.…”

“…(4) Personal skills needed and organisation factors affecting acute care practice A number of personal skills and factors affecting occupational therapy practice in acute care were identified from the literature. Time management was rated the most important personal skill required for practice in a number of studies (Craig et al, 2004;Griffin & McConnell, 2001;Robertson & Blaga, 2013). Successful time management was positively associated with the ability to successfully manage the demands of a large and fluctuating caseload (Griffin & McConnell).…”

“…Occupational therapists valued clear communication lines with clients and often facilitated this communication with families and other members of the health-care team (Craig et al). Access to written information was also positively identified as a resource necessary for effective communication to clients (Blaga & Robertson, 2008;Crennan & MacRae, 2010;Griffin & McConnell, 2001;Robertson & Blaga, 2013).…”

Understanding and supporting occupational therapists clinical decision-making for the management of upper limb post stoke sensory impairment

“…The lack of use of standardised measures is consistent with findings by Robertson and Blaga (2013) regarding the management of unilateral neglect with a total of 27% of respondents reported using standardised measures. Korner-Bitensky, and Ogourtsova, (2007) completed a qualitative descriptive study of 12 occupational therapists who worked in a community setting with clients with brain injury.…”