bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in Adult Attachment Style, Career Choice and Career Satisfaction for Occupational Therapy and Commerce Students
Authors: Meredith Pamela , Merson Kerisity , Strong Jenny
Published: April 2015

Adult attachment theory has been portrayed as a framework from which to conceptualise career choice, with evidence that occupational therapy students report both a high rate of secure attachment and high levels of satisfaction with their career choice (Roney et al 2004). These findings appear to support the notion that those with secure attachment styles are drawn to the people-oriented, care-giving nature of occupational therapy.

The present study was undertaken to test this assumption further by comparing students from first-year occupational therapy and commerce courses: two courses perceived to differ in their focus on care giving. One hundred and fifty-three university students (n = 53 occupational therapy, n = 100 commerce) completed a questionnaire encompassing demographic information, adult attachment styles, factors influencing career choice and the level of satisfaction with this choice.

A significant difference in the attachment styles between the two groups (p <0.03) was noted, with more occupational therapy students identified as ‘secure’, and fewer as ‘preoccupied’ or ‘dismissing’, compared with students from the commerce courses. Occupational therapy students were also more satisfied with their choice of career. This result lends support to the theory that securely attached students are both attracted to and satisfied with the more caring professions, such as occupational therapy.
Developing a Work Rehabilitation Project: ‘Equal Pathways to Work’
Authors: Bisiker Jane , Millinchip Kay
Published: April 2015

Informal multiagency guidelines had been developed in Wolverhampton in an attempt to provide a pathway for clients to return to work following a period of rehabilitation. This resulted in a successful bid for European Social Funding, which enabled a dedicated occupational therapist and a project coordinator to be appointed for a 3-year period. This report discusses the process of setting up the project and evaluates the success of the project in assisting clients to return to work or retraining.
Thomas Bessell Kidner and the Development of Occupational Therapy in the United Kingdom: Establishing the Links
Authors: Friedland Judith
Published: April 2015

This historical research describes the life and work of Thomas Bessell Kidner (1866-1932). The purpose of the article is threefold: to describe Kidner's British heritage, to suggest how Kidner's background may have influenced his contributions to the early development of the profession, and to examine how Kidner's contributions have influenced practice. Using methods appropriate to interpretive biography, primary and secondary source materials have been gathered and analysed relating to Kidner's education and early work experiences in England; his work in Canada, teaching manual training and as Vocational Secretary during the First World War; and his time in the United States, with particular reference to his role with the American Occupational Therapy Association.

The analysis suggests that Kidner brought the ideology of educational reform, as manifested in manual training, into occupational therapy and that this work provided a foundation for his approach to the treatment of injured soldiers. Kidner's efforts to help the profession to survive and expand after the war, with the consequent alignment with medicine, are also highlighted. His contact with the profession and with key individuals, such as Elizabeth Casson, in the United Kingdom is also explored. Finally, Kidner's contributions are considered in the light of how the profession might have developed had circumstances been different.
The Importance of Job Analysis in Occupational Therapy
Authors: Joss Malcolm
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapists can play a major role in the work rehabilitation process through the assessment and rehabilitation of clients for a return to work (Gibson and Strong 2003). The challenge facing the occupational therapist is identifying if the client's current functional abilities are a suitable match for the demands of the job. Ideally, the occupational therapist should assess the demands of the job that the client is required to perform as well as completing an assessment of the client's work abilities. The purpose of this opinion piece is to highlight to occupational therapists the importance of job analysis in all specialties within vocational rehabilitation and to illustrate the process used by the occupational therapists in the Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Service.
Severe Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME): Recovery is Possible
Authors: Burley Lucy , Cox Diane L , Findley Leslie J
Published: April 2015

The recovery of individuals with very severe chronic fatigue syndrome/ myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is possible with successful multidisciplinary management. This case vignette aims to highlight the beneficial outcome of using occupational therapy lifestyle management and the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure to identify perceived problems in occupational performance and indicate change. The current management strategies in CFS/ME are discussed briefly and the challenges of the management of severe CFS/ME are described, indicating a need for a supportive team and specialist inpatient services.

In 2003, the Department of Health released funds in England to develop more widely accessible CFS/ME services. This case study illustrates a positive outcome for one individual with severe CFS/ME, following admission to a specialist inpatient facility. It is hoped that it may aid other therapists working with and developing services for people with severe presentations of CFS/ME.
Sex and Occupational Therapy: Contradictions or Contraindications?
Authors: Pollard Nick , Sakellariou Dikaios
Published: April 2015

The issue of sex is often avoided in or excluded from occupational therapy. This opinion piece argues that the exclusion of sex contradicts the holistic and client-centred arguments of occupational therapy and can lead clients to the adoption of precarious occupations in order to pursue their sexual needs. It offers an overview of some of the reasons for the exclusion of sex discourses from occupational therapy and calls for an appreciation of clients' sexual needs. By learning more about clients' experiences, occupational therapists can establish priorities towards shared outcomes and facilitate the maintenance, development and re-establishment of meaningful occupational lives.
The Use of Structured Observation as a Stroke Rehabilitation Aid: An Opinion from Neuroscience
Authors: Holmes Paul , Ewan Louise
Published: April 2015

This opinion piece proposes that individuals who have experienced stroke may benefit from observing meaningful movements. Structured observation interventions, through video, activate the brain in functional motor areas that are similar to those seen for the physical execution of the observed skills. Furthermore, the occupational therapist may be ideally placed to deliver this novel therapy. The simulation of self-movements and others' movements that are meaningful for the individual may provide a valid approach for therapists to retain central motor function, promote motor plasticity and benefit more physically-based interventions.
Balancing Challenges and Facilitating Factors when Implementing Client-Centred Collaboration in a Mental Health Setting
Authors: Sumsion Thelma , Lencucha Raphael
Published: April 2015

This study undertook a replication of the work conducted by Sumsion in 2004 in the United Kingdom regarding the application of a definition of client-centred practice. Twelve occupational therapists employed by a local mental health facility and working with adult outpatients participated in semi-structured interviews. Template analysis and open coding were used to analyse the data. The resulting concept map indicated that collaboration and meaningful goals were at the centre of client-centred practice and formed the two main categories of data. The therapist and the client were the protagonists in these categories, but the family, team and system also played major roles. A table within this paper outlines all the categories and themes that arose from the data. However, space limitations required a focus on only the category of collaboration and the therapist and client facilitators and challenges within this category. The therapists used both attitudes and actions to facilitate the client-centred process and the clients brought strengths to this relationship. Nevertheless, both groups faced many challenges that had to be overcome to enable the successful implementation of client-centred practice.
Implementing Evidence-Based Employment Services in New Zealand for Young Adults with Psychosis: Progress during the First Five Years
Authors: Porteous Nikki , Waghorn Geoffrey
Published: April 2015

This practice evaluation demonstrates how occupational therapists can play a key role in providing vocational services for young people experiencing a first episode of psychosis. By implementing the evidence-based Individual Placement and Support model, occupational therapists can expand their traditional roles to provide services that integrate functional recovery with clinical recovery. This New Zealand programme achieved vocational outcomes of between 49% and 59% over a 4-year period. The lessons learned from these experiences add to the body of international knowledge on how best to implement evidence-based employment services for young people with mental health problems.
Exploring Evidence-Based Practice by Occupational Therapists when Working with People with Apraxia
Authors: Tempest Stephanie , Roden Paul
Published: April 2015

Evidence in the literature supports a number of interventions that occupational therapists may utilise when working with people with apraxia, although there is no gold standard approach. A large-scale survey (n = 304, 36% response rate) was conducted with the membership of the College of Occupational Therapists Specialist Section — Neurological Practice to explore therapists' understanding of apraxia and to provide a benchmark of current practice. Consensus was found in the majority of belief statements regarding the condition, although the respondents were unclear about the relationship between cognition and apraxia. When the therapists were asked to indicate their choice and use of interventions for apraxia, the results showed that the main consideration was the context in which a person performs activities, with moderate use of specific techniques including errorless learning and chaining. The results are related to the evidence base and the implications for occupational therapy practice and education are discussed.
Compulsory Volunteering: Using Service Learning to Introduce Occupation to Occupational Therapy Students
Authors: Jenkins Gavin , Douglas Fiona , Chamberlain Elaine
Published: April 2015

Service learning, integrated into an occupational therapy curriculum, presents a unique learning experience. Students engage with people within the community, which fosters civic responsibilities and personal resourcefulness in the process. This leads to personal reflection on the role of occupation in their lives and those of others. At a time of increasing pressure on traditional placements, the University of the West of England seeks to nurture this type of learning and proposes that perhaps the time has come to debate whether it is as valuable as a traditional placement.
Occupational Therapists' Perceptions of Predischarge Home Assessments with Older Adults in Acute Care
Authors: Atwal Anita , McIntyre Anne , Craik Christine , Hunt Jacki
Published: April 2015

Predischarge occupational therapy home assessments are routinely performed with older adults in Europe, Australia and North America. Their primary aim is to facilitate a timely and safe discharge from hospital. However, there is a lack of published research on this topic, especially studies exploring occupational therapists' perceptions of home assessments. The paper aims to redress this by describing occupational therapists' perceptions of predischarge occupational therapy home assessments with older adults in acute care.

All occupational therapists who undertook home assessments in an acute care hospital with older adults during the duration of the study period were invited to complete a reflective diary. In total, 15 reflective diaries were completed by six therapists. The data were analysed using thematic content analysis.

The findings suggest that home assessments were carried out because of mobility or environmental concerns. Satisfaction and dissatisfaction with the outcome of the home assessment were related to the incidents that occurred during the assessment. Some of the occupational therapists' anxieties were related to the older adults' level of functioning or ill health, and the older adults' own concerns did have an impact upon the therapists' expectations of the home assessment process.
Social Services Occupational Therapists' View of Practice and Integration with Health: A Survey
Authors: Forsyth Kirsty , Hamilton Emma
Published: April 2015

There is little known about social services occupational therapy provision within Scotland and England. This information is important when planning strategically for the future.

The aim of this study was to understand the views of social services occupational therapists on their practice and integration with health services. Systematic random sampling of social work/social services departments was completed (n = 10) and 57 occupational therapists within these departments received a mailed questionnaire. There was a 72% response rate.

The therapists received ‘on average 40 referrals' each month and 98% of the therapists retained the client for over 4 weeks, within which they had 3–6 contacts of 45–90 minutes each. Ninety-five per cent of the referrals were perceived to be appropriate and the clients benefited from the occupational therapy services. Fifty-four per cent of the therapists focused on self-care, equipment/adaptations and discussion with family/carers for more than half of their time, with 76% stating that they did not address all the clients' occupational needs. Eighty-eight per cent stated that there was an overlap with health service occupational therapists in the areas of assessment, equipment provision and family/carer advice. Forty-four per cent stated that there were some changes towards integration with health; however, 98% felt that more integration would benefit clients. The article sets out recommendations for consideration.
Ageism within Occupational Therapy?
Authors: Davys Deborah
Published: April 2015

Despite the arrival of the National Service Framework for Older People in 2001, age discrimination continues to exist both in popular society and in health and social care settings. Within this context, the number of older people that are likely to come into contact with occupational therapy services is set to rise because of an increase in the population of older people. This opinion piece provides an overview of ageism towards older people in relation to occupational therapy and suggests basic steps that can be taken by the profession to guard against ageist practice.
‘All the Doors are Closing’: National Deaf Services Users' Thoughts and Views on Deafness, Mental Health and Employment
Authors: Prior Sarah , Conway Maggie
Published: April 2015

This qualitative study invited Deaf adults with mental health difficulties to reflect on mental health, Deafness and the barriers to obtaining and retaining employment. The term Deaf with a capital ‘D’ denotes Deaf people as a cultural and linguistic minority group, who use sign language as their first language (British Deaf Association 2000). Eight people took part in three focus groups and one interview. The findings were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Six themes arose from the analysis: stigma, the benefits of employment, the support required, the differences and similarities between Deaf and hearing populations, communication and the challenges of mental health compared with those of Deafness. The strongest message was that Deaf people with mental health difficulties require somebody who speaks their language when obtaining employment. A list of recommendations is provided, which has relevance to occupational therapists.
Supporting People with Multiple Sclerosis in Employment: A United Kingdom Survey of Current Practice and Experience
Authors: Townsend Gail
Published: April 2015

This paper reports on one section of a larger project, which examined employment issues from the perspectives of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and the professionals who may support them in retaining or regaining employment. The aims of the study were, first, to explore the knowledge and experience of MS specialists, occupational therapists and disability employment advisers of employment and MS and, second, to identify the current practice of professionals supporting people with MS in work. A postal questionnaire was used to elicit a wide range of responses.

The results showed that the impact of MS on employment was well understood, but that there was less awareness of the wider social influences on the ability to retain employment. There was evidence of a range of support being offered by some participants, but there appeared to be a gap between the problems reported and interventions offered overall.

There is a need for further research to develop effective interventions targeted at supporting people with MS in work, which will underpin the implementation of Quality Requirement 6 of the National Service Framework for Long-Term Conditions.
Practice Development: Bridging the Research-Practice Divide through the Appointment of a Research Lead
Authors: McQueen Jean
Published: April 2015

Research suggests that while most clinicians endorse the importance of evidence-based practice, without the right culture of support and encouragement it can be difficult to achieve such practice. This paper presents an outline of one method to enhance evidence-based practice. It reports on the evaluation of a new type of occupational therapy post, a research lead based in clinical practice, and suggests that the post has the potential to bridge the research-practice divide. Based on feedback from clinicians, research outputs and the impact on practice, the results offer an insight into the role of the research lead in contributing to and enhancing the use of evidence-based practice. It is hoped that these findings may be beneficial to other areas that are considering the strategies and support required to enhance and invest in evidence-based practice.
Supervision in Occupational Therapy: How are We Doing?
Authors: Gaitskell Sue , Morley Mary
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapy has endorsed the practice of clinical supervision to promote high quality services and professional accountability, in line with the Government's governance agenda (Department of Health 1998, 2000). This opinion piece was prompted by a survey of London-based occupational therapists in autumn 2005, which highlighted inconsistencies in the practice and theory of supervision and in the provision of training. The authors argue that managers in health and social care settings should adopt a theoretical framework for supervision; make their expectations explicit; and build an infrastructure, including training and audit, to demonstrate the effectiveness of supervision in improving patient care as well as supporting staff growth.
Enabling Older People to Stay at Home: The Costs of Substituting and Supplementing Care with Assistive Technology
Authors: Goodacre Kate , McCreadie Claudine , Flanagan Susan , Lansley Peter
Published: April 2015

A wide-ranging multiprofessional research project explored issues relating to the introduction of assistive technology into the existing homes of older people in order to provide them with the opportunity to remain at home. The financial relationship between assistive technology and packages of formal care was also explored. The costs of residential care and those of a number of packages containing differing quantities of assistive technology, formal care and informal care were compared. The analyses provide a strong financial case for substituting and/or supplementing formal care with assistive technology, even for individuals with quite disabling conditions. Although needs and hence the cost of provision rise with an increasing level of disability, the savings in care costs accrue quickly.

The consideration of a variety of users with different needs and informal care provision, and occupying a very wide range of housing, leads to the conclusion that in comparison with traditional care packages, at worst, incorporating significant amounts of assistive technology into care packages is cost neutral, but that with careful specification of assistive technology major savings are feasible.
A Review to Explore how Allied Health Professionals can Improve Uptake of and Adherence to Falls Prevention Interventions
Authors: Nyman Samuel R , Ballinger Claire
Published: April 2015

A literature review was conducted to facilitate allied health professionals' implementation of the recommendations made by the Prevention of Falls Network Europe (ProFaNE) (Yardley et al 2007a) on promoting older people's engagement in activities to prevent falls. The falls prevention literature was searched for relevant papers to aid allied health professionals' choice of strategies and to inspire ideas about how to implement ProFaNE's recommendations in everyday practice. Suggestions for each of the six ProFaNE recommendations are made, which may in turn promote older people's adherence to falls prevention interventions.
Occupation for Mental Health and Social Inclusion
Authors: Harrison Deborah , Sellers Adrian
Published: April 2015

Social inclusion and occupational science sit well together and there is a strong case for occupational therapists to take more of a lead with socially inclusive practice. The implications and challenges for occupational therapy roles in mental health services are explored and inclusive practice is discussed in the light of policy that is designed to broaden professional roles. It is argued that if occupational therapists in mental health are going to meet the social inclusion agenda with an occupational focus, they need a political and social awareness in their work with service users and mental health teams.
The Occupational Therapists in Independent Practice National Telephone Enquiry Line: Who Uses it, Why and How?
Authors: Bristow Anna , Rugg Sue , Drew Julie
Published: April 2015

Individuals can contact the College of Occupational Therapists Specialist Section — Independent Practice (COTSS-IP) via a free Telephone Enquiry Line. This article evaluates data from 4342 telephone calls made to this national service during 2002–2006, primarily from callers seeking to engage COTSS-IP members' services. Most calls came from prospective clients and/or their families or friends, residential care homes and National Health Service trusts. Assessment, treatment, adaptive equipment and/or home adaptations were most frequently sought, most often for young people or older adults with physical or learning disabilities within the Greater London area. The implications for occupational therapy practice, education and workforce planning are outlined.
Evaluation of a Collaborative Project to Engage Occupational Therapy Clinicians in Promoting Practice Placement Education
Authors: Rodger Sylvia , Thomas Yvonne , Fitzgerald Cate , Dickson David , McBryde Cathy , Edwards Ann , Broadbridge Jacqui , Hawkins Rachel
Published: April 2015

The Queensland Occupational Therapy Fieldwork Collaborative (QOTFC), which was founded in 2004, includes representatives from universities, practising occupational therapists, professional registration bodies and key employers, and aims to promote a shared vision for the future of practice placement education (fieldwork) in Queensland, Australia. Strategic alliances between key occupational therapy stakeholders were fostered by the QOTFC to address a shortfall of occupational therapy practice placement education opportunities in Queensland. This paper describes a project that aimed to engage occupational therapy clinicians in localised ‘hubs’ across the state of Queensland, with a view to solving practice placement shortfalls. The project evaluation and outcomes are discussed. The outcomes indicated that ownership of practice placement education across the entire profession is critical, and can be achieved through a strategic and a collective focus of key stakeholders working collaboratively with local professionals.
Carers' Perspectives on their Needs and Local Authority Occupational Therapy Practice
Authors: Dibsdall Lisa , Rugg Sue
Published: April 2015

Unpaid family carers are the main providers of care for older people in the community. Local authority occupational therapists are required by law to assess the needs of such carers in their work, targeting their interventions to support carers' roles. This small qualitative study identified the perceived needs of nine family carers of adults with physical disabilities in one English county, exploring the extent to which these needs were met by local authority occupational therapists.

Data were collected from semi-structured qualitative interviews with nine family carers. These interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using elements of grounded theory methodology. Six varied categories of carers' needs emerged.

Occupational therapists met the participants' needs for practical assistance and information, but not for respite or financial assistance. Regarding support network issues, the participants reported poorly integrated community services and little initial awareness of occupational therapy. Once seen by an occupational therapist, however, they wished to remain ‘on file’ to gain instant access to a valued source of support. The recommendations made include the generation of family carer targeted occupational therapy information resources, ongoing therapist liaison to raise general practitioners' familiarity with local service provision and additional research.
The Needs and Experiences Related to Driving Cessation for Older People
Authors: Liddle Jacki , Turpin Merrill , Carlson Glenys , McKenna Kryss
Published: April 2015

Older people may cease driving owing to health concerns, discomfort while driving, cancellation of their licence or financial reasons. Because driving is fundamental to the freedom and independence of older people, driving cessation can lead to depression, loss of roles and unsafe use of alternative transport. Little consideration has been given to the development of approaches to improve outcomes for retiring drivers. This study aimed to understand the experiences of driving cessation for older people to inform the design of interventions for retiring drivers.

Qualitative methodology was used to explore the experiences of driving cessation from the perspective of nine retired drivers, three family members and six service providers. The retired drivers experienced challenges during three phases of driving cessation, in addition to discussing their driving history. The challenges were (1) a predecision phase – a balancing act and achieving awareness; (2) a decision phase – making the decision and owning the decision; and (3) a post-cessation phase – finding new ways and coming to terms.

Interventions to facilitate the process of driving cessation may need to be designed according to the phase of driving cessation and the challenges that the person is experiencing and to be underpinned by behaviour change and life transition theories.
Limitations in Mobility: Experiences of Visually Impaired Older People
Authors: Brouwer Diana M , Sadlo Gaynor , Winding Karen , Hanneman Marianne I G
Published: April 2015

This paper presents a new insight into the limitations experienced by older people with reduced vision in daily life activities. With an ageing population, increasing numbers of Dutch people are affected by visual impairment. In contrast to other European countries, occupational therapists in the Netherlands do work with this specific group, but little research has as yet been conducted in this field. This study explores in detail the mobility experiences of 10 older people with a visual impairment. Each participant was interviewed twice; the data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Giorgi's method of empirical phenomenology.

The participants' severely limited mobility clearly influenced their occupational choices, space and independence, with a particularly negative change in activities of daily living. They attended fewer social activities and became more dependent on assistance, which made them anxious. Visual impairments were often misunderstood by others and the absence of facial recognition was experienced as a severe barrier to social interaction. Some specific difficulties that visually impaired older people may experience are now more transparent, which might inspire occupational therapists in other countries to work in this field.
Occupation and Health: A Review of Selected Literature
Authors: Creek Jennifer , Hughes Andrew
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapy is based on the belief that people can influence the state of their health through what they do. However, there appears to be a shortage of evidence to support this belief. This paper describes a review of selected literature on the effects of occupation on health. The aims were to review how occupation and health are defined in the occupational therapy literature; to find synonyms for these two terms to enable a search for relevant literature; to review evidence for a relationship between what people do and their health; and to identify factors that mediate the relationship between occupation and health.

The review had five main findings: occupation and health are defined in a variety of ways by occupational therapists; there is a wealth of literature, representing a number of disciplines and a wide range of research, that explores the relationship between occupation and health; engaging in occupation carries both potential health benefits and risks to health; there is limited knowledge of the ways in which occupation influences health; and the impact of occupation on health is mediated by a complex range of factors. These findings have implications for occupational therapy research, practice and education.
Occupational Therapy and Care Coordination: The Challenges Faced by Occupational Therapists in Community Mental Health Settings
Authors: Culverhouse Jane , Bibby Paul F
Published: April 2015

There is continuing debate concerning the role of occupational therapists within community mental health practice. This opinion piece advocates the need for occupational therapists to undertake more profession-specific work. Its argument draws upon real life case studies as well as the service users' views expressed in the recent College of Occupational Therapists' 10-year strategy for occupational therapy mental health services.
Occupational Therapy Students' Views of Health Promotion
Authors: Jones-Phipps Marjorie , Craik Christine
Published: April 2015

With the increased interest in the contribution of occupational therapists to health promotion, the College of Occupational Therapists (2004a) recommended that pre-registration programmes should prepare graduates for practice that includes health promotion. This study ascertained the views of second-year occupational therapy students about health promotion. Thirty-five (30%) students responded to a self-report questionnaire and demonstrated positive views about the future relationship between health promotion and occupational therapy. The students thought that health promotion should be included in the education of occupational therapists and did not consider that there had been too much emphasis on health promotion in their own education programme.
An Introduction to Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis: A Useful Approach for Occupational Therapy Research
Authors: Clarke Channine
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapy is currently experiencing a professional refocusing on occupation and its intrinsic relationship with health and wellbeing (Molineux 2004). However, in order to keep this momentum going and to enhance the confidence of therapists in their practice, it is vital that research is undertaken that enables the development of an understanding of how occupation is experienced and ascribed meaning by individuals. This opinion piece suggests that interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) is a useful methodology for therapists to develop such an understanding. It introduces the reader to IPA, including a brief overview of its theoretical underpinnings, highlights factors to consider when planning an IPA study, and discusses how it may provide a useful approach for occupational therapy researchers.
Exploring Occupation and its Meaning among Homeless Men
Authors: Chard Gill , Faulkner Tracey , Chugg Amanda
Published: April 2015

Few studies have been conducted that address homelessness from the perspective of those who have experienced it. Studies tend to focus on services for homeless people, with little description of occupational engagement and the experiences of the homeless people themselves.

This qualitative study, conducted within a phenomenological tradition, explored the lived experiences of adult men living in an inner-city shelter. Eight individual, unstructured interviews were carried out. In addition, three visual notebooks were compiled by the men, using photographs and text that illustrated the occupational realities of their life-world.

Inductive, narrative analysis revealed four themes: keeping busy; street-life environment; loss; and revelation and sharing of self. The findings provide insight into the lives of homeless men. They therefore help to inform occupational therapy within a shelter environment in order to facilitate the homeless men moving forward to increased and more meaningful engagement in occupation and independent lives.
Occupational Therapy in Chronic Liver Disease: A Gap in Service Delivery
Authors: Elliott Chris , Newton Julia
Published: April 2015

Chronic liver disease (CLD) is increasing worldwide (World Health Organisation 2004). The symptoms that affect people with CLD are nonspecific and include joint pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression and cognitive difficulties. In many chronic diseases, such as chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis and cancer, evidence is available to inform the management of these nonspecific symptoms and the role of the occupational therapist. No literature is available, however, on the role of the occupational therapist in clients with CLD. This opinion piece discusses occupational therapy in other chronic conditions and its applicability in the investigation and management of the symptom burden in people with CLD. It concludes that there is a need for occupational therapists to be at the forefront of research in this clinical area, appreciating the symptoms affecting clients with CLD and working towards developing services and interventions appropriate to this client group.
Case Studies to Demonstrate the Range of Applications of the Southampton Hand Assessment Procedure
Authors: Kyberd Peter J , Murgia Alessio , Gasson Mark , Tjerks Tristan , Metcalf Cheryl , Chappell Paul H , Warwick Kevin , Lawson Sian E M , Barnhill Tom
Published: April 2015

The Southampton Hand Assessment Procedure (SHAP) was devised to assess quantitatively the functional range of injured and healthy adult hands. It was designed to be a practical tool for use in a busy clinical setting; thus, it was made simple to use and easy to interpret. This paper describes four examples of its use: before and after a surgical procedure, to observe the impact of an injury, use with prostheses, and during recovery following a fracture. The cases show that the SHAP is capable of monitoring progress and recovery, identifying functional abilities in prosthetic hands and comparing the capabilities of different groups of injuries.
Impact of Visual-Spatial Neglect on Stroke Functional Outcomes, Discharge Destination and Maintenance of Improvement Post-Discharge
Authors: Stein Maria Stella , Maskill David , Marston Louise
Published: April 2015

This study evaluated basic functional mobility in 25 patients with stroke and visual-spatial neglect during inpatient rehabilitation and early follow-up. Seven patients with neglect and 12 patients without neglect were discharged home and the rest to institutions. Patients without neglect achieved higher outcomes in a shorter time (mean 52 and 79 days respectively). All patients discharged home continued to improve at least up to 5 weeks post-discharge. The patients discharged to institutions achieved lower outcomes overall and quickly deteriorated to admission levels post-discharge. The results inform occupational therapy practice in the areas of assessment, discharge planning, destination and expected functional mobility outcomes in the community.
The Use of DVD Simulation as an Interprofessional Education Tool with Undergraduate Occupational Therapy Students
Authors: Brown Ted , Williams Brett
Published: April 2015

Health care professionals, including occupational therapists, are required to work collaboratively with other disciplines in order to provide high-quality care to their clients. As such, it is paramount that health care professional students learn about the professional roles of others and teamwork through interprofessional education (IPE). However, students are often educated in isolation from other disciplines and difficulties with clinically-based IPE have been acknowledged. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate occupational therapy students' perceptions of the use of digital video disc (DVD) simulations as a learning tool for IPE and practice placement education.

Eleven DVD simulations were developed by Monash University and a team of health care professionals. Students from the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy programme at Monash University viewed two or more simulations, and their perceptions were elicited using a mixed methodology approach consisting of a self-report questionnaire (n = 19) and three focus groups. Overall, the DVD simulations were perceived positively as a useful tool for IPE, to supplement practice placement education by occupational therapy students. Although the students did not feel that the simulations could replace actual practice placements, the cost benefit of using DVD simulations to teach, promote and facilitate IPE should be further investigated.
Wellbeing Groups in Dementia Care Services: A Review of Attendee and Carer Satisfaction
Authors: Hampson Caroline
Published: April 2015

The recent development of the National Dementia Strategy and the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidelines have added to the proposals of the National Service Frameworks for Older Adults and Mental Health to improve services for people with a diagnosis of dementia. In line with this, the occupational therapy service in Rossendale began wellbeing groups in an attempt to increase the mental wellbeing of the service users accessing memory assessment services. A review was conducted using a satisfaction questionnaire to establish whether the group was meeting the initial aims for attendees and carers.
Creating a Learning Community in Today's World: How Blogging Can Facilitate Continuing Professional Development and International Learning
Authors: Bodell Sarah , Hook Angela , Penman Merrolee , Wade Will
Published: April 2015

Blogs are publicly accessible websites that are authored by one or several individuals (Boulos et al 2006). These individuals post regular entries and encourage comment on their work, thereby creating discussion and debate. Preliminary evidence suggests that blogging facilitates learning, assists personal and professional development, and provides an opportunity to reflect on issues raised by others from different cultural perspectives (Martin 2007). This opinion piece is based on the shared experiences of five occupational therapy bloggers from the United Kingdom, Aotearoa/New Zealand and the United States and suggests that blogging has a key role in demonstrating evidence of continuing professional development in a globalised community.
Occupational Therapy and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis: Comparable Research Companions?
Authors: Cronin-Davis Jane , Butler Alan , Mayers Christine A
Published: April 2015

Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) is a research method gaining in popularity, particularly in health psychology and related fields. Derived from phenomenology, as the name suggests, it has potential for occupational therapy as an underpinning framework for research. This method was developed to enable researchers to provide participants with the opportunity to describe their perceptions of their lived experiences, which are subsequently interpreted by the researcher. A two-stage data process allows participants to make sense of their own world while the researcher attempts to make sense of participants' lived experiences.

IPA acknowledges that researchers cannot gain complete access to the participant's world and that each participant is an expert in his or her field. However, it does recognise that the researcher's analysis of this world is a dynamic and interpretative process. During the research analysis process, themes are identified and connected and followed by higher-order interpretation. Data can be collected using a variety of methods, including interviews, case studies and focus groups.

This paper describes the potential of IPA as an appropriate and worthy methodology for occupational therapists and, therefore, an important adjunct to the occupational therapy evidence base.
Occupational Therapy Students' Consideration of Clients' Spirituality in Practice Placement Education
Authors: Csontó Sylvia
Published: April 2015

Spirituality in occupational therapy has become more prominent through research and discussion over the last decade. This study aimed to examine further the topic of occupational therapists' inclusion of spirituality in their practice through exploring the experiences of occupational therapy students. The study investigated students' consideration and understanding of spirituality in practice after undertaking all their degree course placements.

A simplified grounded theory approach was used. Semi-structured interviews with six occupational therapy students explored their experiences and opinions regarding spirituality. A qualitative data analysis of the transcripts, using the Atlas.ti package, was the basis on which the findings were grounded.

The findings showed that it was the participants' opinions that spirituality was not covered well during their occupational therapy education. Other barriers to considering spirituality included the lack of a clear definition, omission from assessment forms and the perceptions of other staff. The participants' narratives indicated that they did not overtly focus on or consider spirituality during their practice placement education. However, all the participants discussed spirituality, in varying ways, with some of their clients. The findings from this study imply the need for specific education on recognising and addressing spirituality for students of occupational therapy.
Trust: Can Occupational Therapists Take it for Granted?
Authors: Mason Rosemarie , Morley Mary
Published: April 2015

The trust that underpins the relationship between the Government, the public and professionals has been undermined, leading to proposed changes to the regulatory framework for professionals in order to strengthen clinical governance. In the National Health Service, the Knowledge and Skills Framework is suggested as a tool for revalidation, the implications of which are discussed. Occupational therapists should no longer take trust for granted, but neither is it something that can be managed entirely by legislation. Rather, occupational therapists have both a personal and a collective responsibility to re-forge public trust.
Driving with homonymous visual field loss: Does visual search performance predict hazard detection?
Authors: Smith Matthew , Mole Callum D , Kountouriotis Georgios K , Chisholm Catharine , Bhakta Bipin , Wilkie Richard M
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Stroke often causes homonymous visual field loss, which can lead to exclusion from driving. Retention of a driving licence is sometimes possible by completing an on-road assessment, but this is not practical for all. It is important to find simple tests that can inform the assessment and rehabilitation of driving-related visual-motor function.

Method

We developed novel computerised assessments: visual search; simple reaction and decision reaction to appearing pedestrians; and pedestrian detection during simulated driving. We tested 12 patients with stroke (seven left, five right field loss) and 12 controls.

Results

The homonymous visual field defect group was split into adequately compensated or inadequately compensated groups based on visual search performance. The inadequately compensated group had problems with stimuli in their affected field: they tended to react more slowly than controls and in the driving task they failed to detect a number of pedestrians. In contrast, the adequately compensated group were better at detecting pedestrians, though reaction times were slightly slower than controls.

Conclusion

We suggest that our search task can predict, to a limited extent, whether a person with stroke compensates for visual field loss, and may potentially identify suitability for specific rehabilitation to promote return to driving.
Psychopaths — Permissiveness or Restriction
Authors: Smith Barbara
Published: April 2015

This is the paper which Mrs. Smith, Assistant Governor of Holloway Frison, read at the Fourth International Congress of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists in London in July. In view of the great interest expressed by a number of members it is reproduced in advance of the official Proceedings of the Congress which will be published by Excerpta Medica in 1967.
Use of Plastazote Reinforced with Fibreglass
Authors: Barry T. A. , Lee A. C.
Published: April 2015

Supportive back rest and seat for driver with severe mid-dorsal kyphosis
The Study of Occupational Therapy Teaching Resources in the United Kingdom
Authors: Stewart Averil M.
Published: April 2015

This paper was presented at a Conference on December 17th by the C.P. S.M's. Educational Development Officer, Mrs. Averil M. Siewert. Participants discussed her report on the study of occupational therapy teaching resources and also heard views from representatives of the College of Occupational Therapists, the Council of Heads of Training Schools, Clinical Supervisors and the Tutors' Group. These views will be reported in a future issue.

The report is available from the Council for Professions Supplementary to Medicine, price £2.40.
The Potential for Horticulture in Occupational Therapy a Horticulturist's Viewpoint
Authors: Thoday Peter
Published: April 2015

This article originates from a contribution made to the inaugural meeting of the College of Occupational Therapists Special Interest Group of Remedial Gardening. It was entitled “A Horticulturist's Eye View of Occupational Therapy”. Having been given such a provocative title the worried speaker's opening remarks sought to remove any hostility the audience may have felt.

In print it is perhaps sufficient to say that while remaining totally ignorant of the professional skills of Occupational Therapy, I nevertheless believe I understand its medical and social role, and the philosophy upon which it is based. Indeed I would venture to predict considerably increased social need for Occupational Therapy in the development of our post industrial society.