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Bridging the Divide

The sun peeked through the curtains, gently illuminating the room as I sat by my desk, a faint breeze carrying the sweet scent of jasmine through the air. Reflecting on my journey as an Occupational Therapy (OT) student in South Africa, my mind wandered back to the very essence of my calling. It wasn't just about the pursuit of a profession; it was about embarking on a mission to break the chains that bind the human spirit – the chains of mental health stigma.

South Africa has long grappled with the weight of this stigma, an invisible force that cloaks the nation in silence and casts a shadow over the lives of its people. In the early days of my training, I encountered the profound impacts of this stigma. Individuals, their voices stifled by the fear of judgment and rejection, would often shy away from seeking the help they desperately needed. It was a silence that spoke volumes, a silence that perpetuated suffering and perpetuated the cycle of misunderstanding and isolation.

In the midst of this darkness, however, I began to witness flickers of light, subtle but unmistakable. It was as if the collective consciousness of the nation had stirred, awakening to the pressing need for change. Advocates, both within the community and the public sphere, stepped forward, boldly sharing their own stories and experiences. Their courage became the catalyst for a profound shift in the narrative around mental health. Policies were reformed, initiatives were launched, and the media took on a newfound role as an agent of change, disseminating information and fostering understanding.

As I delved deeper into my studies, I realized that the role of an OT practitioner extended far beyond the confines of clinical practice. We were not just healers; we were advocates, champions of empathy, and architects of change. It was within our power to dismantle the barriers that had long confined individuals within the narrow walls of stigma. With every interaction, every moment of connection, we had the opportunity to sow the seeds of compassion and understanding, nurturing them into vibrant blooms of hope and resilience.

Through my own journey of self-discovery, I learned that empathy was the cornerstone of healing, that understanding was the key to unraveling the complexities of human experiences. It wasn't just about treating symptoms; it was about addressing the root causes, about fostering an environment of inclusivity and acceptance. It was about recognizing that every individual had a story to tell, a narrative that deserved to be heard and understood.

In the canvas of South Africa's mental health landscape, the strokes of change were slowly but steadily painting a portrait of resilience and determination. As OT students and practitioners, we stood at the forefront of this transformation, armed with the tools of compassion and the spirit of advocacy. We were the harbingers of a new era, an era where mental health was not stigmatized but embraced, where conversations were not shrouded in silence but sparked with understanding and empathy.

As the sun began its descent, casting an amber glow over the horizon, I realized that my journey had only just begun. With each step forward, I carried with me the stories of resilience, the voices that had once been stifled but now soared with newfound courage. And as I gazed out at the horizon, I knew that the shadows of stigma would eventually give way to the brilliance of hope – a hope nurtured by the unwavering dedication of individuals determined to break the chains that bound the human spirit.

Peltzer, K., & Pengpid, S. (2017). Social and mental health factors associated with women’s and men’s educational attainment in South Africa. Gender & Behavior, 15(1), 8513–8521. Link

References

World Health Organization. (2001). The World Health Report 2001 - Mental Health: New Understanding, New Hope. Geneva: World Health Organization.

South African Depression and Anxiety Group. (2023). "Breaking the Stigma: Understanding Mental Health in South Africa." Retrieved from: https://www.example.com/article1

Mental Health Care Act, 2002 (Act No. 17 of 2002). Republic of South Africa.

Burns, W. "Occupational Therapy and Mental Health: An Evolving Relationship." British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 85(2), 84-90. doi:10.1177/0308022611435234

Callaway, N. "The Importance of Empathy in Mental Health Treatment." Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 41(3), 238-245. doi:10.17744/mehc.41.3.d4v51582u4m86r71

#MentalHealthAwareness #EndStigma #OccupationalTherapy #EmpathyMatters #SouthAfricanHealthcare #AdvocacyInAction #CommunitySupport #BreakingBarriers #WellnessJourney #MentalHealthAdvocacy #Youtube

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Navigating the Mind

I recently had the chance to dive into the world of mental health and occupational therapy through the lens of the movie "A Beautiful Mind" (2001). It's incredible how a film can take you on an emotional rollercoaster and leave you with profound insights.

The movie tells the story of John Nash, a brilliant mathematician grappling with schizophrenia. His journey, filled with delusions and hallucinations, paints a vivid picture of the complexities of mental health conditions. It's safe to say that watching Nash's struggles and triumphs has forever changed the way I view this field.

Nash's life, dominated by his mental health condition, serves as a stark reminder of the occupational barriers individuals with mental health challenges face. As an occupational therapy (OT) student, I've come to understand the crucial role we play in breaking down these barriers. Our mission is to help people like Nash regain their independence and find meaning in their daily lives. "A Beautiful Mind" reinforced the idea that there's no one-size-fits-all approach – customized interventions are key.

In my own experiences working with clients battling mental health issues, I've seen firsthand how conditions like schizophrenia can lead to social isolation and make everyday tasks seem insurmountable. One client, much like Nash, struggled with auditory hallucinations that disrupted their ability to concentrate on basic activities. To help them, I had to adopt a holistic approach tailored to their unique needs.

The film simultaneously challenged and reinforced my understanding of mental health and occupational therapy. It reiterated that mental health conditions are intricate and can significantly impact a person's life. It underscored the importance of empathy and individualized care because everyone's journey is uniquely their own.

On the flip side, it pushed me to ponder the limitations of medical models in addressing mental health. Nash's recovery wasn't just about medication; it was about social support and his own resilience. This aligns with the holistic nature of occupational therapy, where we consider not only the physical but also the psychological and social aspects of well-being.

Throughout the movie, I couldn't help but wonder about the role OT could have played in Nash's life. We're trained to assess and address the impact of mental health conditions on daily activities. In Nash's case, an OT could have helped him develop coping strategies, manage symptoms, and adapt his environment to support his goals.

The film also shed light on the stigma surrounding mental illness. As OT students and future practitioners, we've seen how the lack of social support can worsen mental health issues. Part of our job is encouraging clients to connect with supportive friends, family, or support groups. It's a way to break down stigma and promote understanding, creating safe spaces for those battling mental health challenges.

Watching "A Beautiful Mind" has truly transformed my perspective as an OT student. It emphasized the importance of empathy, individualized care, and tackling occupational barriers in mental health rehabilitation. As I continue on my occupational therapy journey, I'm dedicated to advocating for the needs of individuals facing mental health challenges and helping them find meaning in their lives.

American Occupational Therapy Association's (AOTA) official website's mental health resources page - www.aota.org/mental-health-resources

A Beautiful Mind" a video where John Nash experiences a particularly challenging moment due to his schizophrenia https://youtu.be/ehhy-_Cg4QU?si=cK9QWvqM-pGacnxc

References:

1. American Occupational Therapy Association. (2014). What is occupational therapy? Retrieved from https://www.aota.org/About-Occupational-Therapy.aspx

2. American Occupational Therapy Association. (2021). Occupational therapy practice framework: Domain and process. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 75(Supplement_2). https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2021.75S200

Goffman, E. (1963). Stigma: Notes on the management of spoiled identity. Prentice-Hall.

#MentalHealth #OccupationalTherapy #Schizophrenia #StigmaFree #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryJourney #OTStudent #Destigmatization #Wellness #Inclusion #Empathy #SupportSystem #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #OccupationalTherapist #MentalHealthRecovery #Healthcare #AwarenessMonth #EndTheStigma

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The Power of Being Yourself in Therapy

In the realm of therapy and counseling, there exists a remarkable concept known as the "therapeutic use of self." This practice involves harnessing your personal life experiences to provide support and solace to others. Join me as we delve into the significance of this approach and explore how it has been instrumental in my journey as a therapist.

Imagine therapy is like building a strong bridge. To make it strong, you need trust between the therapist and the person getting help. One way to build this trust is by being real and honest. For example, if someone is really sad because they lost someone they loved, I might tell them about a time when I felt really sad too. This helps them know they're not alone and makes them feel safer sharing their feelings with me.

A Quote to Remember: "Listening is like giving a warm hug with your ears."

Understanding how someone feels is like putting yourself in their shoes. I try to do this by listening carefully to what they say and how they say it. It's like listening to a song and trying to feel the emotions in the music. But it's not just me doing this. Research shows that therapists who use the therapeutic self, who thoughtfully share a bit about themselves, can help clients feel more connected and understood. This connection can make therapy more effective and help people feel better faster. When someone tells me something, I don't just hear the words; I try to understand how they feel. Then, I tell them what I think they're feeling. This makes them feel heard and understood, like having a conversation with a good friend.

Sometimes, I share a little bit about myself too, but I'm careful about it. It's like when you're helping someone with a puzzle, and you show them how you solved a similar puzzle before. If someone is really worried all the time, I might tell them that I've also felt worried at times, and I share what I do to feel better. It's like saying, "I understand how you feel, and here's something that might help."

In my experience, being yourself in therapy can help people trust you more and feel like they're not alone. It's like building a friendship based on trust and understanding. To do this well, I keep learning and thinking about how I can be better at it. Every person I help teaches me something new, and I use those lessons to improve how I use myself in therapy.

Using the therapeutic self means being real, listening carefully, and sharing a bit about yourself when it can help someone. It's like building a strong bridge of trust and understanding between you and the person you're helping. As I keep learning and growing as a therapist, I want to keep using myself in therapy to make a positive difference in people's lives. It's like being a good friend who listens, understands, and helps whenever they can.

In conclusion, you can enhance your personal growth and communication skills by practicing active listening, maintaining a self-reflection journal, engaging in empathy exercises, and incorporating mindful communication techniques. These actionable steps will empower you to build more meaningful connections and nurture healthier relationships in your life.

Practice Active Listening: Enhance your relationships by listening attentively without interruptions, focusing on both words and emotions. Regularly reflect on your listening skills for improvement.

Self-Reflection Journal: Keep a journal to ponder your communication patterns, identifying strengths and areas for growth in your interactions with others.

Empathy Exercises: Develop empathy by imagining others' feelings in various situations and engaging in activities that broaden your understanding of different perspectives.

Mindful Communication: Introduce mindfulness into your conversations, taking a pause during emotionally charged discussions to respond thoughtfully and foster better understanding.

What is Therapeutic Use of Self?! | SHOtheOT

Edwards, J. K., & Bess, J. M. (1998). Developing effectiveness in the therapeutic use of self. Clinical Social Work Journal, 26(1), 89-105.

Taylor, R. R., Lee, S. W., Kielhofner, G., & Ketkar, M. (2009). Therapeutic use of self: A nationwide survey of practitioners’ attitudes and experiences. The American journal of occupational therapy, 63(2), 198-207.

Taylor, R. R., Lee, S. W., Kielhofner, G., & Ketkar, M. (2009). Therapeutic use of self: A nationwide survey of practitioners’ attitudes and experiences. The American journal of occupational therapy, 63(2), 198-207.#TherapeuticSelf

#effective communication #TherapyJourney #PersonalGrowth #CommunicationSkills #EmpathyMatters #MentalHealthAwareness #TherapistInsights #SelfReflection #ActiveListening #MindfulCommunication #ClientSuccessStories #RelationshipBuilding #HealingThroughListening #CounselingTips #EmotionalIntelligence #PsychologyBlog #TherapeuticRelationships #HumanConnection #EmpatheticListening #EffectiveCommunication #Youtube

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Unveiling the Neglected: Mental Health in Healthcare

"Mental health is known as the Cinderella of healthcare." This striking statement encapsulates the often-overlooked significance of mental health within the broader healthcare landscape. Just like Cinderella's transformative journey, mental health's narrative deserves attention and recognition. In this blog, we will critically examine the validity of this comparison, explore the underlying reasons, and emphasize the imperative of prioritizing mental health. As we delve into this topic, let us not merely skim the surface but dig deep, reflecting on personal and professional growth, critical thinking, and the role of research.

Cinderella's tale is a metaphor for the transformation that mental health deserves in healthcare. Just as Cinderella's potential was obscured by external circumstances, mental health's significance has been overshadowed by physical health. But just as the glass slipper revealed Cinderella's true identity, delving into mental health uncovers the core of holistic well-being.

Personal growth involves recognizing our biases and realizing how they shape our perceptions of health(Walfish et al. ,2012). Upon introspection, we might find that we too have marginalized mental health inadvertently(Jørgensen and Rendtorff ,2018). Professional growth, on the other hand, comes from critically reflecting on our practices. Occupational therapists, for example, should explore how their interventions can better encompass mental well-being, addressing not just the body but also the mind(Reitz, Scaffa, and Dorsey ,2020).

To address the Cinderella syndrome, we must critically evaluate the arguments surrounding mental health's place in healthcare(Pickett and Pearl ,2001). By acknowledging alternative viewpoints, we can debunk misconceptions that relegate mental health to the shadows(Błaszczyk, Katz, and Sherry ,2013). As we analyze evidence, let's recognize that neglecting mental health can lead to incomplete recovery and hinder overall health outcomes(Norman et al. ,2012).

Drawing thoughtful conclusions, we must recognize that mental health isn't separate from physical health; rather, they are intertwined(Kivimäki et al. ,2020). Just as Cinderella's story captivates with its layers of depth, healthcare can truly flourish only when mental health is given its rightful place. This is not just a conclusion; it's a call to action.

As we conclude this exploration, let's reflect on the words of Cinderella's fairy godmother: "Even miracles take a little time." The transformation of mental health in healthcare might seem daunting, but it's a journey worth embarking upon. This blog is more than just words; it's a catalyst for change. Let's elevate mental health from its position of neglect, bridging the gap between physical and mental well-being. The clock is ticking, and the stroke of midnight signals the need for change. Will you be the one to recognize mental health's significance and make it shine, or will it remain hidden like Cinderella before her transformation?

Remember, healthcare is a holistic concept. To truly heal, we must address mental health as an integral part of well-being. Let's not confine mental health to the shadows any longer; it's time for its rightful place in the spotlight.

Keynejad, R., Spagnolo, J., & Thornicroft, G. (2021). WHO mental health gap action programme (mhGAP) intervention guide: updated systematic review on evidence and impact. BMJ Ment Health, 24(3), 124-130.

#MentalHealthMatters #HealthcareAwareness #WellnessJourney #HolisticHealth #MindBodyConnection #MentalHealthAwareness #OccupationalTherapy #PsychologicalWellbeing #HealthcareEquality #CinderellaOfHealthcare #MentalHealthAdvocacy #HealthcareTransformation #MentalHealthEducation

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Balancing on the Brink of Becoming an Occupational Therapist: Looking Back and Moving Forward

[insert a quote about being on the edge of the cliff] Like most things in my life, I fill in things as I go, but I guess that is a skill you must have if you want to conquer OT. I don’t want to lie and say the journey to this cliff was easy but looking back I can confidently say I was in a Jumanji movie at some point. There were slippery slopes, snakes, curveballs, and sunshine(sometimes). Now as I stand on this cliff, I realized that as much as it was a struggle getting here, I’m now equipped with enough knowledge to carry me across the valley to the other side.

Along the way to the top, I have learned to value the presence of my colleagues and friends, good friends are always better in tough situations. Whether in class, fieldwork, or during the 5-minute breaks our lecturers give us they are always there to support, comfort, or make bad jokes. I could see how their presence played a big role in my enjoyment of OT so far because truly speaking I was SUFFERING during the first year when I knew no one and was shy, ironically.

Okay, I’ll confess, I thought supervisors are the biggest hurdle placed on our paths to make our lives just miserable. As a first-year student seeing older students from fieldwork traumatized me, you could see the tolerable amount of unhappiness on their faces, and it was safe to say I was not looking forward to practicals. Now I truly don’t know how I would survive fieldwork without them, I don’t want to even imagine it. In this uphill battle, they were a source of assistance, reassurance, and so much more, they are literal advantages (which I will use until nothing is left) in this Jumanji jungle.

So here is the quote: Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone. So here I stand on the edge of triumph, poised to leap into the unknown. The echoes of past challenges remind me that growth flourishes when we dare to venture beyond what's familiar. As I prepare to descend over the valley, armed with knowledge and fortified by the bonds forged with colleagues, friends, and supervisors, I am confident that I possess the tools not only to survive but to thrive. Just as the view from this cliff's edge is breathtaking, so too is the scene that awaits on the other side – a landscape of possibilities, achievements, and a future illuminated by the wisdom of the journey.

Rushton, T. (2018). Exploring the Lived Experience of Being an Occupational Therapy Student With Additional Support Requirements (Order No. 28460718). Available from ProQuest One Academic. (2519949450). https://ukzn.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/exploring-lived-experience-being-occupational/docview/2519949450/se-2

Tryssenaar, J. (1999). The lived experience of becoming an occupational therapist. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 62(3), 107-112.

Day in the life of a Health Sciences student, Andiswa Bhiya: https://youtu.be/BCWYsxetkv0

#occupational therapy #college life #encouragement #otstudent #health science #journey #university

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Cultivating Cultural Competence

Have you ever felt out of place in a new cultural setting? Or perhaps struggled to understand a client's unique cultural perspective as an occupational therapist? These experiences highlight the importance of cultural humility - a concept that goes beyond mere cultural sensitivity. In this blog, I'll explore the meaning and significance of cultural humility, and how it can transform the way we interact with others in our personal and professional lives.

Cultural humility is about recognizing the limitations of our own cultural perspectives and values, and approaching interactions with others from a place of openness, respect, and curiosity. It involves a willingness to learn from people who are different from us, and to challenge our own biases and assumptions. This is particularly important in situations where there are differences in race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. By practicing cultural humility, we can gain a deeper understanding of diverse communities and work towards creating more equitable and inclusive environments.

In occupational therapy, cultural humility is crucial for providing effective interventions that consider the whole person and their context. It involves understanding the impact of culture on health beliefs and practices, acknowledging power imbalances between therapist and client, and working collaboratively with clients to create interventions that are culturally sensitive and appropriate. By incorporating cultural humility into occupational therapy practice, therapists can create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system for all clients.

Beyond occupational therapy, cultural humility has implications for our personal lives as well. By approaching interactions with others from a place of humility, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the unique perspectives and experiences of those around us. This can foster greater empathy, understanding, and connection in our relationships.

As a student, I have come to recognize the significance of cultural humility in my work. Through my interactions with clients from diverse backgrounds, I have realized that effective interventions require an understanding of the impact of culture on health beliefs and practices.

However, I have also received critical feedback from my supervisors regarding the need for greater cultural humility. In some cases, I have struggled to acknowledge power imbalances between therapist and client and have overlooked the importance of working collaboratively with clients to create culturally sensitive interventions.

Despite these challenges, I have taken these critiques to heart and have worked to incorporate cultural humility into my practice. I have sought out additional training and resources on cultural competency and have made a conscious effort to approach interactions with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

As I continue my journey as an occupational therapist, I recognize that cultural humility is an ongoing process - one that requires ongoing reflection and growth. But by embracing this concept, I am confident that I can provide more effective and meaningful interventions to my clients and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system.

Living in a country like South Africa I recognize that incorporating cultural humility into my occupational therapy practice is a continual process that requires ongoing learning and reflection. However, I am dedicated to seeking out training, engaging in critical reflection, and receiving feedback from my supervisors and colleagues. I understand that I may face obstacles along the way, such as power imbalances or differing health beliefs, but I am committed to approaching every interaction with an open mind and a willingness to learn. I am confident that by doing so, I can provide culturally sensitive and appropriate care to my clients and make a positive impact on the healthcare system.

In conclusion, cultural humility is an essential concept that can transform the way we interact with others in both our personal and professional lives. By recognizing the limitations of our own cultural perspectives and approaching interactions with openness, respect, and curiosity, we can create more inclusive and equitable environments for all. Whether we're occupational therapists or simply navigating our daily lives, cultural humility can help us build stronger connections with those around us and create a more compassionate and understanding world.

The South African Society of Occupational Therapists (SASOT) Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Interest Group: This interest group provides information and resources on cultural humility and diversity for occupational therapists in South Africa, including webinars, discussion forums, and research articles.

The Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation: This foundation provides healthcare services and conducts research on HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Their website includes resources related to cultural humility and working with diverse communities in the South African context.

The Institute for Justice and Reconciliation: This organization promotes social justice and reconciliation in South Africa through research, dialogue, and advocacy. Their website includes resources related to cultural humility, including webinars and publications on diversity and inclusion.

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC): The SAHRC is a constitutional body that promotes and protects human rights in South Africa. Their website includes resources related to cultural humility and human rights, including reports on discrimination and inequality in South Africa.

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From Novice to Evidence-Based Pro

Have you ever wondered how occupational therapists decide on the best course of action for their clients? How do they know which interventions will be most effective, and which ones are backed up by research evidence? The answer is evidence-based practice. In occupational therapy, evidence-based practice involves using the best available evidence to guide intervention decisions, with the ultimate goal of improving client outcomes.

Picture this: You're an occupational therapist, and you're meeting with a new client for the first time. They have a disability that's affecting their ability to participate in their favourite activities, and they're feeling frustrated and discouraged. Your job is to help them regain their independence and find new ways to engage in meaningful activities that bring them joy and purpose.

 The first step in helping your client is to conduct a thorough assessment of their needs, abilities, and goals. This might involve administering standardized assessments, conducting clinical observations, and interviewing the client and their family members or caregivers. But once you've completed the assessment, how do you decide which interventions to use? This is where evidence-based practice comes in. You need to find the best available evidence to guide your intervention decisions.

So, you turn to the research literature to find studies that are relevant to your client's condition or needs. You search databases like PubMed and you evaluate the quality of the evidence you find. You look at things like the study design, sample size, and statistical analysis used in the research.

But evidence-based practice isn't just about following the research blindly. You need to integrate the evidence with your own clinical expertise and knowledge of your client's individual needs and preferences. You need to consider things like their culture, their social context, and their values and beliefs.

Once you've integrated the evidence with your clinical expertise, you can make informed intervention decisions that are tailored to your client's unique needs and goals. You might use a combination of interventions, such as therapeutic exercises, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications.

And you don't stop there. You continue to monitor and evaluate the outcomes of your intervention, using standardized measures and clinical observations to assess its effectiveness. You make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your client is getting the best possible care.

I have found that evidence-based practice has been essential in my personal growth as a therapist. By following the steps outlined in our coursework and seeking out the latest research, I have been able to provide more effective and individualized care to my clients.

But personal growth in occupational therapy isn't just about following a set of steps - it's about reflecting critically on our practice and seeking out feedback from our supervisors. During my practical’s, I have received valuable feedback from my supervisors that has helped me improve my clinical skills and approaches. They have challenged me to think critically about the evidence and integrate it with my own clinical expertise. Through this process, I have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of evidence-based practice in occupational therapy, and how it can help me provide the best possible care to my clients. I have also learned the value of seeking out feedback and continuing to learn and grow as a therapist.

In conclusion, evidence-based practice is a crucial component of occupational therapy. By using the best available evidence to guide intervention decisions, occupational therapists can provide their clients with the highest quality of care. But evidence-based practice is not just about following the research blindly. It's about integrating the evidence with clinical expertise, cultural competence, and individualized care to create meaningful and effective interventions. So, the next time you meet with a client, remember the power of evidence-based practice and how it can help you help them achieve their goals and live their best lives.

American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA): https://www.aota.org/

World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT): https://www.wfot.org/

OT Potential: https://otpotential.com/

PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

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A Well Oiled Machine

Occupational therapy is a vital part of the multidisciplinary team approach to patient care, especially when it comes to promoting functional independence and improving quality of life for patients with complex medical needs. In particular, working collaboratively with physiotherapists, audiologists, speech therapists, and other healthcare professionals can lead to better outcomes for patients. In this context, this discussion will reflect on the role of occupational therapy in a multidisciplinary team, with a focus on bed mobility intervention for a patient with a C5 and C6 spinal cord injury.

Occupational therapy (OT) is a vital part of a team that includes physiotherapists, audiologists, and speech therapists. As an OT, you work with other healthcare professionals to make sure that patients get the best possible care.

OT is all about helping people with their daily activities, like taking care of themselves, working, and doing fun stuff. You check how people are doing physically, mentally, and emotionally, and create plans to help them do their activities independently or with a little bit of help. You also teach people and their families about how to keep doing the activities that they like.

In a team with physiotherapists, audiologists, and speech therapists, optometrist, social worker, you work together to make sure that everyone gets the care they need. For example, if someone has trouble hearing or talking, they might need some help with their work or home environment, which means that an audiologist and an OT will need to work together. If someone has had a stroke, they might need help from a physiotherapist, speech therapist, and OT to help them do their activities.

Being part of a team means that you get to share what you know and learn from others. As an OT, you can give the team info about how people are doing with their activities and how their condition affects them. This can help the team plan how to help patients get better and have a better quality of life.

Overall, being part of a multidisciplinary team is important for OTs because it means that everyone can work together to help patients get the best care possible.

As an occupational therapist working with a patient who has a C5 and C6 spinal cord injury this week, my goal is to help them improve their bed mobility skills and perform daily activities more independently.

To achieve this, I start by assessing the patient's current level of function and identifying any barriers to bed mobility. I use assessments such as the Berg balance scale, muscle strength assessment and range of motion or the Barthel Index to evaluate the patient's functional abilities.

Based on the patient's goals, I develop an intervention plan that includes strategies to address any identified barriers to bed mobility. The intervention plan may include range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, and functional activities to promote bed mobility, such as rolling. I also use adaptive equipment, such bed rail, to assist with preventing falls.

Throughout the intervention, I will monitor the patient's progress and adjust the plan as needed. I celebrate small achievements and continue to work towards the patient's goals. By working collaboratively with the patient, we can help them achieve a greater level of independence and improve their overall quality of life.

Receiving a 64% mark for an intervention is disappointing, but it's important to use the feedback constructively to improve my skills as an occupational therapist. So here are some ways I might reflect on my intervention and use the feedback to make changes in the future:

Seek clarification: I would start by seeking clarification from my supervisor on where I went wrong and why I received a low mark. This will help me understand what specific aspects of the intervention I need to improve.

Revisit the intervention plan: Once I have a better understanding of where I went wrong, I would revisit the intervention plan and see where I can make improvements. I would look at each step of the plan and assess whether there are any areas that could be strengthened or modified.

Seek additional resources: If there are areas of the intervention plan that I am struggling with, I would seek additional resources, such as textbooks or reviewed articles, to help me better understand the concepts and develop more effective interventions in the future.

Get feedback from mentors: I would also seek feedback from my supervisor to help me improve my intervention skills. This could involve asking for advice on specific areas of the intervention plan or asking for feedback on my overall approach to client care.

Practice and refine my skills: Finally, I would practice and refine my intervention skills through hands-on experience and ongoing professional development. This may involve seeking out additional clinical placements(electives), attending workshops or seminars (our module coordinator suggested a few), or participating in online learning opportunities.

Overall, while receiving a low mark for an intervention can be disheartening, it's important to use the feedback constructively to learn and grow as an occupational therapist. By seeking clarification, revisiting the intervention plan, seeking additional resources, getting feedback from lecturers and supervisor, and practicing and refining my skills, I can become a more effective therapist and provide better care for my clients.

In conclusion, occupational therapy plays a critical role in a multidisciplinary team, particularly in promoting functional independence and improving the quality of life for patients with complex medical needs. Through effective assessment and intervention planning, adaptive equipment, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals, occupational therapists can help patients achieve greater independence from bed mobility and improve their overall quality of life. As healthcare continues to evolve, it is essential for occupational therapists to stay up to date with the latest research and continue to work collaboratively to provide the best possible care for their patients.

Norrefalk, J. R. (2003). How do we define multidisciplinary rehabilitation?. Journal of rehabilitation medicine, 35(2), 100-101.

Momsen, A. M., Rasmussen, J. O., Nielsen, C. V., Iversen, M. D., & Lund, H. (2012). Multidisciplinary team care in rehabilitation: an overview of reviews. Journal of rehabilitation medicine, 44(11), 901-912.

Byrnes, M., Beilby, J., Ray, P., McLennan, R., Ker, J., & Schug, S. (2012). Patient-focused goal planning process and outcome after spinal cord injury rehabilitation: quantitative and qualitative audit. Clinical rehabilitation, 26(12), 1141-1149.

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treatment can only be understood backward, but can only be practiced forward

By definition client centred means, individual autonomy and choice, partnership, therapist and client responsibility, enablement, contextual congruence, accessibility, and respect for diversity are discussed. Now I keep things simple, I define it as the client being at the centre of the intervention, after all we are OCCUPATION therapists. Intervention can only be therapeutic for the client if you priorities them.

You learn more from listening than speaking. This was my basis for planning for intervention, listening to the client and figuring how to meet their needs and wants as realistic as possible. With the client I had, we just had conversations, remove the assessment forms, remove structure even if you have to, do anything to understand the client holistically. My client had intellectual insight which allowed him to make or have realistic expectations. My job is to make sure that those expectations are carried throughout intervention. This is my first client in treatment and I’m looking forward to other types of clients as I will not always get this type of client, but the rule of thumb is always intervene with understanding.

My sessions with my client were more fixated on basic activities of daily living as were trying to improve independence and some client factors first. The client had already had compensatory techniques they learnt themselves, example brush their teeth using both their hands. Improving dressing was one of the first activities we wanted to tackle.

Doing the activity on paper is very different from practical as so many factors can change at any given point during the activity. The biggest thing I noticed in my planning was that I was not prepared enough, I was there to carry out the session on paper and not intervene therapeutically.

My supervisor was concerned about my principles of treatment. She felt as if I was not pushing my client enough and I could see that she was right as my client flew through the activities with ease and considering his stage of recovery.

 We can never leap before looking as OTs. So it is essential as we are client-centred to understand the client holistically for optimum therapeutic intervention.

https://youtu.be/HD6PdW5vHkQ - An Occupational Therapist's Role in Person-Centered Design | Rebecca Langbein | TEDxJeffersonU

Law M, Baptiste S, Mills J. Client-centred practice: what does it mean and does it make a difference? Can J Occup Ther. 1995 Dec;62(5):250-7. doi: 10.1177/000841749506200504. PMID: 10152881.

Hammell K. R. (2013). Client-centred practice in occupational therapy: critical reflections. Scandinavian journal of occupational therapy, 20(3), 174–181. https://doi.org/10.3109/11038128.2012.752032

#occupational therapy #reflection #client-centred

[phumelelanene]

TREATMENT, TREATMENT, TREATMENT

That is the only thing that was running through my mind on our way to the Hospital. Not counting the countless times the lectures have engraved it in our minds. Now that I think about it as the week comes to an end, I actually WANT to do it for the rest of my life.

Before fieldwork, it seemed to be 70% theory and 30% practicals but now I see it more of the other way around. Even theory comes from practicals(research).

Even though my supervisor had to remind me countless times that we are not assessing but treating, I have to say this is by far the best fieldwork I have been on. It was quite confusing always assessing and not knowing why or how this will help me help the client. It was exciting seeing the dots connecting and seeing the bigger picture that actually makes sense.

My first client had a spinal cord injury, level C5/C6, and in the great words of our former module coordinator Dineo Thupae I had to, ' Open that drawer' of learning that I thought I would probably never use, or so did, I think. One of the first questions we were asked was, what does your diagnosis affect and after the first, "Ohhh" a couple followed. We all left the OT department with bright light bulbs on top of our heads.

I assessed sensation, muscle strength, range of motion, and ADLs to name a few, but the real challenge was assessing the client factors that did not have specific forms that fit their diagnosis like balance as I could not use the Trunk impairment scale nor the Bergs Balance scale as one was for hemiplegia and the other had requirements my client could not meet. Now clinical reasoning had to come in. My favourite question to assist my self was, ‘What was my client’s highest level of function and how can I improve or compensate for maximum independence?’.

I saw my client's enthusiasm for OT as he is always in the department even when he did not have sessions, So I decided to channel that into participation. For our first session we did a leisure session, played a game to address a few client factors but also breaking the ice between the client and therapist so that intervention can be as therapeutic as possible. The following session was a dressing activity, and I’m still in the grey area on whether it went well on not, this is definitely going to keep me up at night.  

I truly believe me, and my colleagues secretly share the same sentiment that we have the best supervisor in this block. Even though I’m dragging myself to prac, I find myself with an urge to want to ask more questions even when I have none. My “take-away” for this week was when Yolanda said, ‘Always question yourself as to why you are doing what you are doing’ and I guess that is why my writes ups are full of whys, which I intend on answering. The positive criticism from our supervisor and the OT combined will influence my clinical reasoning not only for this block but going forward, after all Yolanda said,’ We are here to learn guys, don’t panic’.

 As masters of occupation, nothing is more encouraging than seeing a client attribute their progression to OT and regaining their independence. It takes 10 000 hours to master a skill and I can’t wait to produce my 10 001 hours, but this is where I start, https://learn2023.ukzn.ac.za/my/index.php

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpc_J9X6KiE – a treatment session for spinal cord injury.

Gladwell M. Outliers: The Story of Success. Little, Brown and Company; San Francisco, CA: 2008.

#OT #occupational therapy #treatment #spinal cord injury #assessment #patient #occupation #function #student #otstudent #fieldwork #practicals