bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paradise Lost!… Paradise Regained? Putting the Promise of Occupational Therapy into Practice
Authors: Lyons Mike
Published: September 2010

Occupational therapy is beset by confusion over its professional mandate. Agreement has not been reached on the unique need of man which it serves; and insufficient progress has been made in linking everyday practice with an underlying theoretical framework. The Model of Human Occupation, based in the Occupational Behaviour theoretical tradition, is proposed as a suitable tool to bridge the theory‐practice gap. Examples are discussed of the fresh meaning it brings to occupational therapy's wholistic orientation to health care.
The Paradigm Concept in Occupational Therapy — A Critical View
Authors: Cusick Anne
Published: September 2010

“Paradigm” is a concept being increasingly used in occupational therapy literature as a tool to analyse theory, practice and occupational therapy's development. The philosophical assumptions inherent in this term are critically evaluated. This involves ambiguity, relativism and reflexivity of the concept as well as the rejection of scientific method and causality as a basis for research in occupational therapy. Implications for occupational therapy as a science are discussed.
Description of Repetition Strain Injury, and Prevention
Authors: Barrett Tanya
Published: September 2010

Repetition strain injury, a current growing concern, is discussed in general terms. A description of the condition, causes and prevention are discussed.
Culture Shock in the Health Context
Authors: Lightfoot Sandra
Published: September 2010

Indo‐Chinese migration to Australia has occurred under a programme of humanitarian aid for refugees. This paper expresses some aspects of cultural, historical and religious practice which may assist health professionals to increase their understanding of this group and meet their needs with sensitivity.
The Adolescent with a Physical Disability — Special Challenges
Authors: O'Halloran Anne
Published: September 2010

This paper traces the developmental tasks of the adolescent and the special significance they have for the disabled youth. The author then focuses on the challenges facing disabled adolescents in their daily activities of living. Included is a record of interview with six students in which they describe their needs and how the staff of their special school can help meet their needs.
The Careers of Occupational Therapists Five Years After Graduation: Modified Plans But Satisfying Lives
Authors: NORDHOLM LENA A. , WESTBROOK MARY T.
Published: September 2010

The fourth survey in a longitudinal study of occupational therapists' career patterns elicited a 66% response rate (N = 49). The percentage employed in the profession had fallen by 21.5% since 1980. Less than half of the 22.4% who were unemployed planned to return to professional work. Job satisfaction remained high among the employed though work values had changed. Pay, job security, chances for promotion and respect received were considered more important than in 1980. The most stressful aspects of work had altered with work pressure and worries about patients being the most stressful. While 53% regarded themselves as specialists, areas of speciality differed from those planned earlier. Some had been promoted (40%), but few had high status ambitions. Many therapists (63%) had married and 24% had children. Most mothers of young children were unemployed. The number of children desired had decreased. There was little evidence of role conflict and therapists were satisfied with most areas of their lives.
Australian Norms for Hand and Finger Strength of Boys and Girls Aged 5–12 Years
Authors: FULLWOOD DEBORAH
Published: September 2010

Two hundred and fourteen subjects aged 5–12 years were tested for hand and finger strength using a Jamar dynamometer and a Pinsco pinchmeter. Means and standard deviations for seven separate strength measurements were recorded, for the (R) hand and (L) hand of each child, providing initial data for the hand and finger strength of Australian children. Increasing strength was significantly correlated with an increase in age and to a lesser extent with an increase in weight. Superior male strength was significant for many strength scores, but dominance was found not to be important for this population. Comparison of one strength score with similar studies on American populations showed Australian subjects to be stronger, and the statistical significance of this population difference is currently being tested.
Repetitive Strain Injury: Age, Sex and Activity Patterns
Authors: CHANDANI A. , AGNEW P. J. , MAAS F.
Published: September 2010

Age, sex and activity patterns of 30 females suffering from repetitive strain injury (RSI) were studied by employing a 21 item questionnaire, comprising questions related to the amount of time the subject spent in one week performing work‐related, household and leisure activities. The subjects, diagnosed as non‐inflammatory RSI, were selected from a large public hospital. The results indicated that RSI is significantly more common in females; that the right hand is affected significantly more often than the left; and that the disease is most prevalent in the 30 year age group. The results also indicated that the homemakers spent significantly more time (p<.05) in household activities than full‐time workers. Young age group workers (18–28 yrs.) spent significantly more time (p<.05) in work‐related activities than older subjects (29–48 yrs.). Based on these findings, suggestions for further research are offered.
Relaxation with Children: An Evaluation of Workshops for Teachers, Parents and Students
Authors: ESDAILE SUSAN
Published: September 2010

This paper outlines the development and implementation of five workshops which the author conducted for teachers, parents and fourth year occupational therapy students, between March and November, 1985. The aim of the workshops was to promote the use of relaxation‐inducing activities with children in group, and individual, situations. The participants' experience in the workshops was evaluated and analysed with Kruskal‐Wallis ANOVA, using the SPSS‐X package. Qualitative data was also obtained. The results of the evaluations and their relevence to occupational therapy practice are discussed.
Computer‐Assisted Learning in Occupational Therapy
Authors: FARROW MARGARET , SIMS RODERICK
Published: September 2010

Computer‐assisted learning has application at all levels of occupational therapy education and in the educational roles which occupational therapists accept with respect to clients, the community and allied health professionals. In this paper, recent applications of computer‐assisted learning in undergraduate allied health professional education are outlined, along with some exciting, plausible applications of this technological medium to occupational therapy. The need for caution in embarking on the use of the medium, and the importance of cooperation amongst computer‐assisted learning experts, educationalists, the profession and health professionals, particularly in computer‐assisted learning production and research endeavours, is justified.
A Comparative Study on the Immediate Effects of Hand Orthoses on Reducation of Hypertonus
Authors: ROSE VALMAI , SHAH SURYA
Published: September 2010

This paper compares the immediate effects of dorsal, volar and no splints in reducing hypertonicity in the wrist flexors of spastic hemiplegic subjects. The measures include: (i) passive range of motion; (ii) angle of point of stretch reflex; (iii) resistance to passive wrist extension; and (iv) force of spontaneous wrist flexion. Results of this study indicate a significant reduction in hypertonicity following both dorsal and volar splint application on the passive range of motion and resistance to passive extension measures (P < .05), and a significant reduction in hypertonicity as measured by spontaneous flexion following two hours of dorsal splint wearing (P < .05). No significant reductions in hypertonicity were noted on the angle of point of stretch reflex measure, and on the force of spontaneous flexion measure. Possible explanations for results and suggestions for further resarch are discussed.
Rehabilitation of Patients with Motor Neurone Disease — The Occupational Therapist's Role
Authors: KORTMAN BRENTON
Published: September 2010

The value of rehabilitation techniques and the involvement of occupational therapy with patients who have motor neurone disease has been identified by a number of authors and medical practitioners. However, little has been documented about the role of occupational therapy with motor neurone disease patients, despite the fact that the involvement of occupational therapists is often requested. In this paper, the author outlines rehabilitation approaches and techniques which may be utilised by occupational therapists. From this written documentation of the occupational therapy role, occupational therapists can evaluate and explore the effectiveness of these intervention strategies and techniques.
An Extension of the Occupational Therapy Role in Gerontology
Authors: STRONG JENNY
Published: September 2010

This paper focuses on service delivery for the aged population. With the prevailing trend towards the maintenance of elderly persons in the community, the contribution to be made by the occupational therapy profession is explored. A review of the literature considers the needs of the elderly, and highlights the importance of occupational therapy expertise in the areas of functional independence, quality of life and life satisfaction. At the present time, most occupational therapy services for the elderly are being provided, within acute treatment or institutional settings. However, occupational therapy has the potential to provide services which will contribute greatly towards the independence and well‐being of elderly persons living in the community.
Conflicts in Professional Practice
Authors: GRIFFIN SUSAN
Published: September 2010

Occupational therapy is faced with potential and actual conflicts in professional practice. These conflicts hinge on the concepts of what a profession is and occupational therapy's attempts at professionalisation. Areas of conflict for the profession include those related to the development of a body of unique knowledge for occupational therapists, the need for a medical prescription in occupational therapy practice, the different concepts of order and disorder for occupational therapy and medicine and lastly the conflict between unionism and professionalism. This paper addresses the concepts of a profession and professionalisation and these four resulting areas of conflict for occupational therapy.
The Use of Self‐Selected Activities and Social Reinforcement in the Management of Self‐Injurious Behaviour
Authors: MANDER BARBARA , LYON BERNADETTE
Published: September 2010

Studies show that between 8% and 14% of institutionalised clients engage in self‐injurious behaviour (SIB) and that most of these clients are severely or profoundly developmentally disabled. Using an operant theory approach with activities as a medium for differential re‐inforcement of other behaviour (DRO) and for differential re‐inforcement of incompatible behaviour (DRI) a programme was introduced for eight clients in two hostels for persons with intellectual and physical handicaps. Elbow splints were used in some cases plus food and social re‐inforcement. The intervention reduced self‐injurious behaviour in all but one case. As a result of individual analysis, activities selected in the sensory mode of the behaviour proved effective and the introduction of general activity periods helped maintain the reduction. Issues of staff participation, client acceptability to staff, programme ownership and and selection of activities were addressed.
Profile of a Population with Occupational Overuse Injury
Authors: CUMMINS MAREE
Published: September 2010

An 18‐item questionnaire was issued to 110 outpatients presenting with shoulder‐arm‐neck pain, commonly known as repetition strain injury but more accurately known as occupational overuse syndrome. This was accompanied by SLC‐90‐R and Locus of Personal Control personality scales. Respondents were asked to provide information on their condition, level of activity and employment status and to rate the treatment received. Occupational therapy treatments and a rehabilitation team approach to treatment were perceived by a majority of clients as useful in their treatment. The SCL‐90‐R failed to show any significant population trend, while the Locus of Personal Control indicated that one third felt their lives were controlled by external events. The need for further research is highlighted.
Training Occupational Therapy Managers
Authors: ROSS MARGARET , BARKER JO
Published: September 2010

There is a need for occupational therapists to become competent managers in a diverse range of health care settings. In this paper, the author's continuing education course on management which they have conducted at the West Australian Institute of Technology (now Curtin University of Technology) over the past four years. Details of participants, their reasons for attending and their comments on the course are included. The authors emphasise the need for more continuing education in management and the provision of skills for coping with organisational life, in particular in a female dominated profession such as occupational therapy.
Knowledge and Attitudes: Aspects of Occupational Therapy Students' Perceptions of the Handicapped
Authors: WESTBROOK MARY T. , ADAMSON BARBARA J.
Published: September 2010

Scales measuring attitudes towards the handicapped fail to evaluate accuracy of knowledge. Occupational therapy students' (N = 233) knowledge of the handicapped was tested by 18 factual questions. Students also completed the Attitudes Toward Disabled People (ATDP) Scale (Yuker, Block and Younng, 1970). Students revealed negatively biased perceptions of the problems and skills of the handicapped, overestimated community assistance received, and were largely unaware of sex differences in handicaps. Senior students had more positive attitudes on the ATDP, and were somewhat better informed than first year students. There was no association between knowledge and ATDP scores. The need to address cognitive as well as affective and behavioural aspects of negative attitudes is discussed.
Parenting: A Group Programme for Abusive Parents
Authors: LLOYD CHRIS , WATSON DIANE
Published: September 2010

Treatment programmes for sexual offenders constitute a new area of practice for occupational therapy. Role dysfunction is evident in the way the offenders perform within their family, work and social settings. This article describes a parenting group which was established in order to assist the offenders to examine their parenting roles and to develop new and appropriate parenting skills.
Study of a Workseat Designed to Preserve Lumbar Lordosis
Authors: GALE MARY , FEATHER SUE , JENSEN SHIRLEY , COSTER GARRY
Published: September 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect a saddle shaped seat has on the lumbar curve of workers. A saddle shaped work seat was designed and constructed. Subjects were asked to sit at a work task. Measurements were taken of their lumbar curve whilst seated on the saddle work seat and, alternatively on a conventional work seat. Photographs were used to provide a reference for measurements which were compared for the two seats. The lumbar lordosis of all subjects was found to be greater when seated on the saddle seat. The researchers concluded that the saddle seat was a viable alternative to the current range of ergonomic chairs as it has none of their inherent problems, but effectively places the user into an ergonomically correct position. Whilst further tests will be necessary to confirm these findings, it does seem that the saddle seat is a useful work seat which preserves good lumbar lordosis while allowing free upper body movement to work with accuracy, power and good vision. It therefore reduces the risk of back injury at work in accordance with the intent of the New South Wales Occupational Health and Safety Act 1983.
Deinstitutionalisation of Occupational Therapy and Health Care Administrators Knowledge
Authors: STEPHENSON LESLEY , VANCLAY FRANK
Published: September 2010

Administrators of 100 Brisbane health care agencies were surveyed about their level of knowledge of traditional and nontraditional roles of occupational therapy and other allied health professions. Administrators were found to have reasonable levels of knowledge of the allied health professions, poor knowledge of occupational therapy, and very low levels of knowledge of the nontraditional roles of occupational therapy. Lack of health care administrator awareness of occupational therapy is a barrier to the transition of the profession from institutionally based models of practice to working in community health settings.
Splint Suitability: A Comparision of Four Wrist Splints for Arthritics
Authors: Stewart Denise , Maas Frikkie
Published: September 2010

A questionnaire was designed to gain information regarding wearer and prescriber perceptions of splint suitability. This paper presents a comparison of data gained from 88 rheumatoid arthritic patients already prescribed a dorsal, palmar, elastic or leather gauntlet wrist splint from three hospitals where all of these splint types were available. Information concerning personal details, splint usage, perceived effectiveness of the splint for use during 24 daily activities, and 12 items related to splint design qualities was collected. Results of a discriminant analysis indicated that the four splint groups differed significantly on two discriminant functions based on 24 selected variables. Sex, use of a walking stick and the occupation of homemaker contributed most to the first discriminant function. Significant differences were also found between the four groups when comparing the wearers' indicated use of splints for dressing, hanging clothes, sweeping, dusting and reading. The results support the view that certain splints are perceived to be better suited to specific patient characteristics and daily tasks. Possible explanations and recommendations for future research are offered.
Kinaesthetic Sensitivity and Handwriting Ability in Grade One Children
Authors: Copley Jodie , Ziviani Jenny
Published: September 2010

Recent literature has indicated the importance of kinaesthesis in the acquisition of perceptual motor skills such as handwriting, and has suggested that handwriting difficulties prevalent among school children can, in part, be attributed to kinaesthetic immaturity. This study examined the extent to which kinaesthesis was implicated in the handwriting ability of 60 Grade 1 children. Kinaesthetic sensitivity was measured using the Kinaesthesia Test (Ayres, 1972) and the Test of Kinaesthetic Sensitivity (Laszlo and Bairstow, 1985). A highly significant positive relationship was found between handwriting quality and performance on the Kinaesthesia Test (F(1, 56) = 18.89, P<.001). As measured by the Test of Kinaesthetic Sensitivity, neither kinaesthetic acuity (F(1, 56) = 3.39, P>.05) nor perception and memory (F(1, 56) = 3.77, P>.05) were significantly related to handwriting quality. These findings are discussed in terms of the proposed impact of kinaesthesis on handwriting performance.
The Contribution of Occupational Therapy to Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation: A Descriptive Review
Authors: Clarey Lynda , Felstead Boyce
Published: September 2010

Occupational therapists work as members of multidisciplinary teams in the assessment and treatment of people experiencing alcohol and drug related difficulties. In the context of “team” treatment, the role of the occupational therapist often appears unclear. Although there is a paucity of available literature regarding occupational therapy roles and functions in this field, the importance of activity based interventions to promote the development of living skills and for facilitating lifestyle changes is well documented. Occupational therapists employed at Pleasant View Centre, Victoria, aim to assist people with addiction problems in reducing or abstaining from drug use within a psychosocial framework. They assist clients in both the detoxification and rehabilitation phases of treatment and provide appropriate follow‐up and support. Occupational therapists contribute both their group and individual counselling skills and, in addition, provide a unique focus on maximsising self‐efficacy and competence to perform life skills. They provide activity based programmes which enhance existing skills and the acquisition of new skills. The complex nature of addiction requires a diverse range of orientations and skills to which the occupational therapist contributes a philosophy and practice of learning skills for living through “doing” and activity.
Community Integration Policy Project: The Occupational Therapist's Role in the Implementation of a Disability Policy
Authors: Johnson Valerie
Published: September 2010

In this paper the author examines the role of the occupational therapist as a consultant to a local government agency. A Community Integration Policy Project conducted in Melbourne, Victoria, is described. This project was an action research project, aimed at improving one agency's response to the needs of people with a disability, in the areas of access to physical facilities, programmes, employment opportunities and decision making processes. Results of the project include improved access in all areas mentioned above, as well as the adoption and implementation of a comprehensive policy on access for the disabled. It is concluded that the occupational therapist has a legitimate role to play in creating social change.
Workers Compensation Law in NSW: Workers Benefits and the Role of Rehabilitation
Authors: Williamson Brian C.
Published: September 2010

This article has been prepared to assist occupational therapists working in the field of worker rehabilitation to have a better and more detailed understanding of the legislation which controls their activities and those of their patients. In particular, the issues of benefits due to workers and the statutory regulation of rehabilitation are considered.
Occupational Therapy in Australia — Where Are We Going and How do We Get There
Authors: Poulden Daryn , Oke Linda E.
Published: September 2010

The occupational therapy profession has come a long way since its beginnings in the 1940s. It is now 1990: where do we want occupational therapy to be in another 50 years? Our profession can have control over its future. To do this we must acknowledge and analyse the internal and external environment, establish short and long term plans, and learn to utilise power to play and win the political games. The possibilities await us. As a profession we must choose a course of affirmative action, co‐ordinated by the profession's hierarchy, in consultation with all the members of the profession. All occupational therapists need to play their part.
Sensibility Evaluation Battery for the Peripheral Nerve Injured Hand
Authors: Cooke Deirdre
Published: September 2010

Traditional sensibility evaluation tools are rendered subjective by stimulus application variables and the gross nature of result interpretations. The literature reveals no single test which will adequately evaluate both sensory acuity and functional use of that acuity following nerve laceration injuries affecting the hand. A selection of sensibility evaluation tools presently available are reviewed. Based on the theories presented in the literature, a battery of assessment tools is proposed for sensibility evaluation of the nerve‐injured hand. It is suggested that these systematically evaluate each of the nerve fibre and receptor systems in the hand, and provide an indication of functional sensibility of the hand — an individual's ability to use sensory information for grasp and manipulative functions of the hand without the use of vision.
1991 Sylvia Docker Lecture Communicating A Professional Image
Authors: Bell Janet
Published: September 2010

Presented at the Australian Association of Occupational Therapists 16th Federal Conference in Adelaide, 4–7 September, 1991.
The Effectiveness of Relaxation Techniques in Controlling Chemotherapy Induced Nausea: A Literature Review
Authors: Mastenbroek Ineke , McGovern Louise
Published: September 2010

This study was conducted to assist occupational therapists make an informed decision on the possible use of relaxation therapy in helping cancer patients cope with chemotherapy induced nausea. The aim was to review studies that have attempted to demonstrate the effectiveness of relaxation techniques in reducing the conditioned component of this type of nausea. The techniques under review included progressive muscle relaxation as a separate technique, as well as in combination with guided imagery and biofeedback or as part of a systematic desensitisation programme. The authors reviewed articles from occupational therapy, psychology, psychiatry, psychosocial, medical and nursing journals of the past decade. All the literature was reviewed by both researchers on the basis of a checklist developed by the authors to reduce any possible bias. All techniques were found to be effective in reducing nausea both before, during and after chemotherapy. It was found that no comparison could be made between the different relaxation techniques. Any limitations of the various studies were identified and recommendations made for future research.
Patient Recall and Understanding of Instructions Concerning Splints Following a Zone 2 Flexor Tendon Repair
Authors: Kortman Brenton
Published: September 2010

Twenty eight patients with a zone 2 flexor tendon repair seen by occupational therapists at the Royal Adelaide Hospital participated in a study conducted from August, 1990 — April, 1991. Patients were provided with a Kleinert splint designed to allow early, controlled motion while protecting the repair site. Crucial to the success of this therapeutic medium is the patients' recall and understanding of the therapists' verbal and written instructions about the wearing regimen for their splint. The major purpose of this study was to investigate patient recall and understanding of these instructions. Patients were interviewed, using a structured interview schedule, after their third therapy session. Therapists were asked to predict the level of recall and understanding for individual patients. Patients recalled 62.5% of the total instructions and recalled 42.5% without the need for a cue. Therapists were able to predict patients ability to correctly recall with moderate accuracy. Implications for clinical practice are discussed based on which items patients did, or did not, recall.
Developing a Sole Occupational Therapy Position in a Rural Area
Authors: Welch Mary , McKenna Kryss , Bock Lester
Published: September 2010

A 1988 Queensland Health Department survey of the demographic, training and workforce characteristics of registered occupational therapists (Queensland Department of Health, 1990) in Queensland, revealed that 31 percent of survey respondents were working outside the Brisbane metropolitan area. From an earlier demographic survey of the same population (Shah & Maas, 1980), it was clear that isolation from the profession, one's peers and continuing education opportunities were the perceived disadvantages of taking up a rural position. Based on personal experience, this paper provides an exposé of the planning, preparation, challenges and problems involved in accepting and developing a sole occupational therapy position in a rural area
Understanding and Assessing Handwriting Difficulty: Perspectives from the Literature
Authors: Bonney Mary‐Ann
Published: September 2010

When a handwriting problem significantly affects student academic performance, intervention is warranted, and referral to an occupational therapist may be recommended. Occupational therapists generally adopt a diagnostic approach to assessment of handwriting difficulty. Prior to designing and implementing a remediation programme, the therapist assesses whether inadequate handwriting results from motor in coordination, biomechanical restrictions to movement, inefficient perceptual processing, anxiety arising from previous failure, or a combination of these factors. Critical to the validity of the diagnostic approach is a relationship between the variables assessed and handwriting performance. This paper presents a review of the literature concerned with handwriting performance, dysfunction and assessment, and provides background information to evaluate current occupational therapy assessment practice.
Occupational Therapy Assessment of Potential Hazards in the Homes of Elderly People: an Inter‐Rater Reliability Study
Authors: Clemson Lindy , Roland Maryanne , Cumming Robert
Published: September 2010

Falls and fractured hips in the elderly have often been attributed to home environmental factors. There is a lack of research evaluating occupational therapists' reliability in assessing the home environment for potential safety hazards. Twenty home visits were conducted by seven therapists with two occupational therapy raters present at each home visit. The kappa statistic was used to determine inter‐rater reliability. Generally, therapists were able to reliably rate potential hazards in the home, however, some areas, such as the toilet area and shower rails had poor reliability. It is recommended that more objective criteria be developed for assessing potential hazards in the home.
Departmental Initiative: Setting Up a Research Feasibility Study
Authors: Ballantyne Beverley , Ross Nola
Published: September 2010

This paper describes a departmental initiative in establishing a part time temporary research position to explore the feasibility of conducting research within an occupational therapy department.
Conductive Education Evaluated: Future Directions
Authors: French Leisa , Nommensen Annabelle
Published: September 2010

A literature review of the effectiveness of conductive education as practised outside Hungary was undertaken. Of 28 potentially relevant studies, 22 were excluded on the grounds that they did not systematically and/or empirically test theories or hypotheses, or did not evaluate programmes outside Hungary. The six remaining represented modifications of the approach and met the criteria. These six studies were reviewed relating evaluation methods, programme characteristics and programme outcomes. The review revealed a total of 25 outcome categories used by the six studies. 24 percent (six) of the outcome categories significantly supported the elements typically found in a conductive education programme while 20 percent (five) significantly supported the comparison programmes, and 56 percent (14) showed no significant differences between the comparison groups. Inconsistency in programme characteristics and methodological flaws in evaluation designs preclude a definitive answer to the question of efficacy. The need for scientifically controlled studies and developing minimum standards of practice for programmes based on conductive education principles is emphasised.
Reliability of the Functional Independence Measure with Occupational Therapists
Authors: Fricke Janet , Unsworth Carolyn , Worrell Diane
Published: September 2010

This paper reports an inter‐rater reliability study on the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). The FIM measures inpatient burden of care, as reflected in 18 self care items, rated on a seven point scale from dependent to independent. The subjects were 40 occupational therapists, divided according to experience with the FIM and randomly assigned to a FIM training or non‐training group. Subjects rated video tapes of four stroke patients on transfers, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting and eating items from the FIM. Rater consensus was calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), percentage agreement and a measure of disagreement. Rating accuracy was measured by comparisons with an expert rater. Ratings were most reliable when done by clinicians with no prior FIM experience, from the FIM training group. It is strongly recommended that all clinicians undergo FIM training before using this tool to ensure acceptable reliability.
Improving Home Programme Compliance of Children with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Molineux Matthew
Published: September 2010

Non‐compliance of children with learning disabilities with occupational therapy home programmes is an all too familiar problem. Although therapists are generally quite accurate in estimating compliance, they are often unsure how to improve this. While most paediatric compliance research investigates compliance of children with medical regimens, the findings have relevance to occupational therapy. In this article the compliance literature is reviewed: methods of measuring and more importantly, improving compliance, are discussed. Factors to be considered when prescribing home programmes are presented, and methods used by occupational therapists are noted. A programme involving contingency contracting and token reinforcement is outlined.
Paediatric Occupational Therapy Services in Queensland Part 1: Demography
Authors: Rodger Sylvia , Springfield Elizabeth , Maas Frikkie
Published: September 2010

A survey of paediatric occupational therapy services in Queensland was undertaken to document current distribution of paediatric therapists, to obtain data on paediatric case load size; establish proportions of time spent in direct versus indirect services; and to investigate models of service delivery. Eighty seven questionnaires, from a total of 146 distributed to full and part‐time paediatric occupational therapists, were returned. This paper reports geographic location, employment status, venue for service delivery, paediatric client groups, nature of intervention, therapist facilities, effect of school holidays and use of waiting lists.
Constraints on Social Activities of Care‐Givers: A Sociological Perspective
Authors: Cant Rosemary
Published: September 2010

Newer policies of community care for those with disabilities have resulted in the home becoming the usual site of care. Policy makers must now give attention to the needs of those at home giving this care. This article explores the constraints on sociability opportunities of 73 mothers who were caring for children with disabilities. These opportunities are often built into leisure pursuits for women without caring responsibilities. However, choice of out‐of‐house leisure activity was circumscribed for the mothers in this study and their reported leisure activities revolved around home and neighbourhood. Even these sites offered limited scope for sociability because of the way in which caring affected domestic space and because of the characteristics of the modern Australian suburb. It is argued in this paper that personal time and personal domestic space are needed by care‐givers so their sociability needs can be fulfilled. An understanding of the constraints imposed by use of the home as a place of care may make possible the planning of a rearrangement of domestic space to increase sociability opportunities for carers.
The eye of the beholder: Models in occupational therapy
Authors: Kortman Brenton
Published: September 2010

Over the past decade there has been an increasing focus in occupational therapy literature on theory and theoretical frameworks. This paper explores the confusion that surrounds some of the terminology used in this literature. The disparity between different theorists' use of terms such as model, paradigm, frame of reference and approach is highlighted. An analysis of major occupational therapy texts and articles on theoretical frameworks from 1962 to 1992 revealed four types of occupational therapy models. The author suggests that attempts by theorists to define terms have been as much an attempt to describe these models as to clarify terminology. A hierarchy of these models is proposed and the individual's role in interpreting and filtering models is also considered.
Deconstructing the concept of profession: A prerequisite to carving a niche in a changing world
Authors: Irvine Rob , Graham Jenny
Published: September 2010

In Australia, as overseas, much discussion is given in the literature to the question of the occupational status of occupational therapy in the health division of labour. Many authors base their analysis, implicitly and explicitly, on the concept of profession derived from the so‐called ‘trait’ approach. This paper critically examines the shaping influence that trait theory has exerted on occupational therapists' perspectives of profession. In doing so, the paper argues that dependence on this monistic approach goes some way towards explaining the confusion that characterizes much of the writing on the status of occupational therapy. Apart from creating confusion, it is argued that the trait approach results in a state of ‘false consciousness’ among practitioners and obscures the political character of the professionalization project. The paper concludes with a discussion of the future of occupational therapy and explains why it is unlikely that this occupation will achieve the privileges and rewards of the traditional professions.
Inter‐rater reliability of the Westmead Post‐traumatic Amnesia (PTA) scale
Authors: Geffen Gina , Bishop Karen , Connell Julie , Hopkins Paul
Published: September 2010

Clinically useful scales must be reliable. High inter‐rater reliability reduces errors of measurement. The purpose of this study was to assess the agreement between raters in scoring items of the Westmead post‐traumatic amnesia (PTA) scale. Two raters viewed 20 episodes of the Westmead PTA scale in clinical use. The inter‐rater reliability coefficients for the instrument overall and for a majority of the individual items were statistically convincing (r ≥ 0.72) and well within clinically acceptable ranges. The lowest correlation was for the item pertaining to recognition of the examiner's face. A procedure for improving the reliability of scoring this item is recommended.
A survey about completing an honours degree and future occupational therapy career paths
Authors: Sturgess Jennifer , Fleming Jennifer
Published: September 2010

Factors associated with completing an occupational therapy honours degree were investigated by comparing graduates who had completed honours with graduates who had chosen not to complete honours. Fifty‐five honours graduates and 55 degree‐only graduates from a 10 year period were surveyed by mail with response rates of 80 and 56%, respectively. Data were analysed by descriptive statistics to allow comparison between the groups. The subjects' most frequent reason for doing honours was an interest in research and in gaining research skills. Financial reasons were the most commonly cited for not doing honours. A higher percentage of honours graduates than degree‐only graduates occupied in‐charge positions or were full‐time students. A higher percentage of degree‐only graduates were in grade 2 positions. Perceived ability to conduct research, participation in research, and the number of journal publications were greater among honours graduates. Honours graduates also indicated slightly higher satisfaction with their current jobs and with occupational therapy as a career. The implications of completing honours in terms of some career path factors are hypothesized on the basis of the results. The survey provides some preliminary information to assist students with decision making and suggestions for further research on honours degrees in occupational therapy in Australia.
Illness perceptions: Implications for occupational therapy
Authors: Moss‐Morris Rona , Petrie Keith
Published: September 2010

An important focus of occupational therapy is the acknowledgement that illness is a distinctive experience for each person. A clear picture of patients' beliefs about their illness can assist occupational therapists to understand the unique meaning that the illness episode has for the person, and how that meaning might affect the process of adaptation to the environment. This article presents a review of recent research on patients' illness perceptions based on the commonsense model of illness. This work provides a framework for understanding how patients make sense of their illnesses and how this influences coping, emotional state, and health outcomes. How illness perceptions can be used by occupational therapists in clinical settings is discussed. Proposals for future occupational therapy research in the illness perceptions area are made.
The labelling of people with an intellectual disability
Authors: Hayes Robyn
Published: September 2010

The issue of ‘disablist’ language has been raised by people with disabilities and their supporters. They are concerned that labels such as mental retardation suggest negative stereotypes which dominate a person's social identity. This paper reviews the existing guidelines for intellectual disability‐related labels, their historical precedents, the opinions of interested parties and empirical evidence on the impact of labelling. It is concluded that communication about disability‐related issues should use terminology which is consistent, least likely to be used as a form of abuse and is most widely acceptable to the people it describes. At the moment, people first terminology best fits those criteria for communication about all people who presently bear labels such as schizophrenic, arthritic or the handicapped.
Australian occupational therapy research: A review of publications 1987–91
Authors: Cusick Anne
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of Australian occupational therapy research published during the period 1987–91. A literature review of the Australian Occupational Therapy Journal for the years 1987–91, and the Australian Association of Occupational Therapists' conference proceedings for the years 1988 and 1991 was conducted. A number of trends were identified. The proportion of research journal articles and conference papers over the 5 year period remained stable. Most journal research articles were written by academics, while clinicians were the most frequent authors of conference research papers. The majority of the research articles reviewed were the result of collaboration between authors; however, this collaboration was not usually between occupational therapy academics and clinicians. Research was predominantly on topics related to practice in clinical specialty areas; however, academics focused more on education and professional issues. The main method for data collection used in the research articles was by surveys. These findings provide valuable information about the nature of Australian occupational therapy research.
The introduction of casemix across Australia: Implementation issues for occupational therapists
Authors: Williams Susan , Shah Surya
Published: September 2010

The Commonwealth and State governments are committed to micro‐economic reform in the Australian health industry with casemix being the basis of this reform. Casemix was introduced in Victoria in 1993/1994 and in South Australia in 1994/1995. While a great deal has been written about casemix, relatively little published data exist on the implications of casemix for occupational therapy. The purpose of this article is to present an overview of casemix, its benefits and the controversy surrounding its introduction. The changes required by occupational therapists to adapt to a casemix based system are also discussed. The future directions will involve: further refinement of the structure of the data set for patient care, examination of the impact of casemix on student training and research, the relationship between budget cuts and impact on hospital based rehabilitation services, the determination of appropriate ‘outcomes' of occupational therapy interventions, and issues surrounding early discharge of patients and their continuing care in the community.
Supervision in a group training curriculum: Reflections on experiential learning
Authors: Howie Linsey M. , Kennedy‐Jones Mary , Lentin Primrose , Macdonald Elspeth M. , Biffin Jan
Published: September 2010

Occupational therapy educators are aware of the value of experience‐based learning to promote safe and effective clinical skills. This paper describes the practice of reflection in group supervision undertaken by five university lecturers to enhance undergraduate experiential learning of group theory and practice. Further, this paper describes how the focal conflict model of group development was used to promote understanding of group process in both a lecturer supervision group and student training groups. The impact of supervision on our teaching practices are noted.
Impact of early discharge planning and case management on length of hospital stay for children with acquired brain injury
Authors: Sakzewski Leanne , Ziviani Jenny , Swanson Cheryl
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of co‐ordinated management and early discharge planning as an intervention strategy to reduce hospital length of stay for children with acquired brain injury. Data for children admitted to the Royal Children's Hospital, Brisbane, between 1987 and 1993 were compared with data collected for children receiving the intervention programme from August 1993 to August 1994. In total, 99 children were included in the study, of whom 84 were retrospective and 15 were prospective patients. Age, sex, Glasgow Coma Score, mechanism of injury (traumatic vs non‐traumatic), and treatment intervention were predictor variables, and total length of hospital stay and associated hospital costs were the outcome variables. Univariate analyses were performed to determine differences between the retrospective and intervention groups and showed a highly significant difference between the two groups in relation to length of stay and total hospital costs (P<0.001). Multiple regression analyses were carried out to determine what factors could predict length of stay. Along with the Glasgow Coma Score (P<0.01), the intervention programme was found to be a statistically significant predictor of total hospital days (P<0.01). A couple of issues, nevertheless, remain unanswered. These pertain to the functional status of the patient at discharge and the nature of community supports required. This study opens up an area of investigation not before undertaken in occupational therapy and points towards future studies.
Factors affecting length of hospital stay for children with acquired brain injuries: A review of the literature
Authors: Sakzewski Leanne , Ziviani Jenny
Published: September 2010

Acquired brain injury (ABI) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality for children within the industrialized world. Either in acute care or long‐term management settings, occupational therapists are concerned with children who have sustained an ABI. Children with ABI often require a prolonged period of hospitalization and intensive rehabilitation, with significant costs to the hospital, community and family. This literature review addresses the factors affecting length of hospital stay (LOS) for children with severe ABI. Broadly speaking, these factors are: (i) injury severity; (ii) complicating factors; and (iii) the effects of intervention procedures. While these factors have been highlighted in the literature, little research has been done to examine their relative contribution to the LOS for children with ABI. Occupational therapists are primarily interested in the impact of rehabilitation and the timing of its introduction; however, the impact of this cannot be understood without consideration of the other known factors that influence LOS.