bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Audit: Measuring the Quality of Individual Clinical Performance
Authors: Murphy Carol S
Published: April 2015

Measurement of quality of performance is increasingly seen as part of the provision of a service within the National Health Service. This article describes how a group of occupational therapists in Southampton and South West Hampshire looked at a process known as clinical audit that is practised within the medical profession to see if it would be a suitable method of evaluating performance within occupational therapy. The group viewed it as a most suitable method and this study will be followed by pilot studies of the practice of clinical audit.
Occupational Therapy for Speech and Language Disordered Children: A Sensory Integrative Approach
Authors: Kelly Greg
Published: April 2015

The treatment of children with speech and language disorders is normally carried out by speech therapists but, due to the fact that they also present with a variety of perceptual-motor problems, an occupational therapist may be involved in the treatment. Recent research from the USA suggests that occupational therapy, using a sensory integrative (SI) approach, can have a direct, beneficial effect on speech and language development. In some cases, the child may initially benefit more from occupational therapy than from speech therapy. This article examines the theoretical implications of using an SI approach to treatment, with particular emphasis being given to vestibular stimulation. It is, primarily, intended to be a literature review in preparation for a research project currently being carried out by the author
‘Profession’ and ‘Professionalism’ and the Emerging Profession of Occupational Therapy: Part 1
Authors: Wallis Mavis A
Published: April 2015

When a profession is seeking to consolidate its achievements and further its development, it can be useful to take an objective view of professions, their roles and development. In this, the first of two articles, the author looks at professions from historical and sociological perspectives. Essential characteristics of a profession are identified together with some of the difficulties experienced by emerging professions.
Health Education in a Psychiatric Setting
Authors: Davison John
Published: April 2015

This article is about a holistic health education programme: The ‘Look After Yourself’ course, sponsored originally by the Health Education Council, now the Health Education Authority. A brief account is given of its aims and structure, and some of the attempts to evaluate it. This is followed by an example of an application to a specific client group, psychiatric day patients.
A Liverpool Tale
Authors: Benson Sandra , Martin Judith
Published: April 2015

This article describes the experiences of two occupational therapists — One a clinician and the other a college lecturer — who changed places for 6 weeks to pain some experience in each other's field of work. Observations are made on how they coped and what they learned. Some suggestions for factors to be taken into account for the future are discussed, as well as comments from staff and students. The authors recommend such an exchange to others.
A Perspective on the Principles and Practice of Occupational Therapy
Authors: Mocellin George
Published: April 2015

This paper presents a concise definition of occupational therapy incorporating a theoretical concept which, it is suggested, provides the essential underpinning for the profession. It is further suggested that occupational therapists should become more disciplined in dealing with the health problems of patients. General guidelines considered necessary for effective practice are also outlined.
A Test Battery to Measure the Recovery of Voluntary Movement Control following Stroke
Authors: Turton Ailie J , Fraser Carole M
Published: April 2015

Tests of upper limb function and an activities of daily living (ADL) index were selected to measure recovery following stroke. Thirty stroke patients were assessed at intervals for up to 6 months to 1 year post-stroke using the battery. The results showed that the ADL index is insensitive to upper limb recovery. All the tests measured recovery in some of the patients after 24 weeks post-stroke. Since the presentation and recovery of patients was variable, it is argued that it is necessary to offer a selection of assessment tests to measure recovery and to aid treatment planning.
Arterial Assessment of the Hand
Authors: Dean Elizabeth
Published: April 2015

A guide to the assessment of the circulation to the hand is presented. Optimal restoration of neuromuscular function is dependent upon an adequate blood supply; hence, a detailed assessment of the peripheral circulation is advocated for all patients presenting with hand dysfunction, regardless of aetiology. A brief review of the gross anatomy of the arterial circulation to the hand is followed by a description of the components of the clinical examination. The therapist can use the results of laboratory tests to provide supplemental or corroborative information to the clinical assessment. Thus, the clinical assessment is discussed in three parts: a description of tests performed in a peripheral vascular laboratory, and the history and the clinical assessment performed by the therapist. Inspection, palpation and auscultation constitute the major components of the physical assessment. A thorough knowledge of the circulatory status of the hand will enhance the occupational therapist's ability to formulate treatment goals, implement more rational therapeutic interventions and evaluate treatment outcome.
Points of View on Working Together: Qualified and Unqualified Staff in an Occupational Therapy Department for Adults with a Mental Handicap
Authors: Creek Jennifer , Wells Greg
Published: April 2015

This article describes how a head occupational therapist tried to overcome the problem of a chronic shortage of occupational therapists by redefining staff roles. One of the helpers who was affected by this strategy gives his opinion of its effectiveness and describes what it feels like to be an unqualified member of staff in an occupational therapy department.
Future Possibilities for a Continuum of Professional Development: Part 2
Authors: Stewart Averil M
Published: April 2015

This paper expands upon Part 1 and the idea of a ladder of educational opportunities which would enable occupational therapy helpers to progress through certification to full registered status. It offers a framework and possible content in order to promote discussion in support of a national scheme.*
Thumbnail Sketches of Disabling Diseases Encountered by Community Staff: Part 3
Authors: Sutcliffe Pip
Published: April 2015

The articles in this short series for associate members sketch the major features of some long-term diseases commonly encountered by health and social service workers helping people in their own homes. They provide a starting point for understanding the problems of sufferers and their carers in adjusting their lives to these disabling conditions, particularly as they affect family life. Health and social service workers will develop their own sensitivity to life issues raised by these illnesses through further reading and experience.
The Effect of Music-Based Life Review on the Life Satisfaction and Ego Integrity of Elderly People
Authors: Bennett S L , Maas F
Published: April 2015

Although music-based life review has frequently been used to facilitate personal adjustment in elderly people, minimal empirical evidence exists as to its effectiveness. An experiment was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of music-based life review. It was hypothesized that a programme of music-based life review would more effectively promote life satisfaction and ego integrity than a programme of verbal life review. Twenty-six elderly female patients residing in nursing homes or hostel accommodation were selected, matched and randomly assigned to either a treatment group (music-based life review) or a control group (verbal life review). Following a 6-week intervention period, all subjects completed the Ego Integrity Subscale (EIS) and the Life Satisfaction Index A (LSIA) and indicated on a linear scale the degree to which they enjoyed the treatment or found it helpful. Results provided support for the use of music-based life review by health care professionals aiming to improve the elderly person's personal adjustment.
The Relation between Perceptual and Language Deficits in Stroke Patients
Authors: Smith A , Lincoln N B
Published: April 2015

The study investigates the relationship between the performance of stroke patients on tests of perception and language. It has been suggested that stroke patients with left hemisphere damage may perform poorly on tests of visual perception due to language problems affecting their understanding of the task. Results indicated that there was no significant difference between stroke patients with right hemisphere, dysphasic left hemisphere and non-dysphasic left hemisphere damage on perceptual tests. Few significant correlations were found between scores on the perceptual tests and scores on the language tests, suggesting that the poor performance of dysphasic patients cannot be explained by language impairment alone.
The Influences upon the Management of Mental Health Services this Century
Authors: Lockie Diana M
Published: April 2015

This article reviews, from a historical perspective, the sociological, economic and policy changes that have influenced the delivery of care to long-term mentally ill people this century. It takes account of developments in Europe and North America, including advances in scientific knowledge which have allowed new therapeutic intervention to be pursued.
Focus on Australia
Authors: Smith Margaret E
Published: April 2015

The Tenth World Congress of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists will be held in Melbourne, Australia, in April 1990; advance publicity has been published in the December 1988 issue of this Journal. This article summarises a recent visit to Australia to attend the 15th Federal Conference of the Australian Association of Occupational Therapists. It is hoped that it will encourage as many therapists as possible from the United Kingdom to start planning now to take the opportunity not only to attend a very important World Congress, but also to visit a country where occupational therapy is developing rapidly in areas of great interest to us, for example, in postgraduate education, in community care, and in industrial and consultancy services. Those who can find a way of attending this Congress are guaranteed a stimulating and enriching experience which will undoubtedly influence the future of our profession.
Interdisciplinary Treatment of a Case of Elective Mutism
Authors: Afnan Shahin , Carr Alan
Published: April 2015

Following a literature review, a severe case of elective mutism is described. A concurrent programme of individual and family therapy is then presented in detail. The treatment programme is an example of effective interdisciplinary work involving an occupational therapist and a psychologist. Behavioural and psychometric data are presented to illustrate the dramatic improvement which the electively mute child showed over the course of treatment. Finally, the probable mechanisms underpinning the child's improvement are discussed.
Motor Problems among Children of Very Low Birthweight
Authors: Roberts B L , Marlow N , Cooke R W I
Published: April 2015

The motor outcome for 53 six-year-old children with birthweights of 1251g or less who were receiving mainstream education is reported. Compared with age and sex matched classmates, these children had significantly poorer motor skills, as assessed by the Test of Motor Impairment. Despite lower scores in tests of fine motor, ball and balancing skills, these children were perceived by their teachers to be performing satisfactorily at school. The impairment observed was independent of IQ and social and demographic variables. Because of the risk of later schooling difficulties, very low birthweight children should be considered for early assessment by occupational therapists and physiotherapists in view of the frequent motor problems encountered.
A Beginners' Guide to Setting up a Relatives' Support Group for Carers of Elderly People with a Mental Illness
Authors: Penna Sue
Published: April 2015

This article discusses the need for support groups for the carers of elderly people with a mental illness, and offers suggestions on how to set up and run a relatives' support group. It is hoped that it may not only encourage those working in this field to set up similar groups but also provoke discussion on the future development of such groups.
A Support Group for Parents of Children with Motor-Learning Difficulties
Authors: Stephenson Elizabeth , McKay Christina
Published: April 2015

This article is a description of the development of a support group for parents of children with motor-learning difficulties. It outlines the identification of a need; the early planning, administrative considerations and development; the changing nature and format; the production of a booklet; the formation of a working party that organised and fund-raised; and the present situation. This group was formed 3 years ago and has been based in the Occupational Therapy Department of the Royal Aberdeen Children's Hospital.
The Model of Human Occupation: A Developing Conceptual Tool for Clinicians
Authors: Kielhofner Gary , Nicol Margaret
Published: April 2015

This article discusses the evolution and current development of the model of human occupation, a conceptual tool designed to enhance the clinical reasoning skills of occupational therapists. A brief overview is provided of a number of conceptual forces in American occupational therapy which preceded and led up to the development of the model; this is followed by a description of the model, its intended clinical use and its implications for British occupational therapy.
Clinical Practice: An Approach to the Assessment of Clinical Competencies
Authors: Burrows Elizabeth
Published: April 2015

Kielhofner's model of human occupation has been adapted to provide an additional perspective to the process of assessing students' clinical competencies. This approach could supplement current formal assessment procedures: it considers how motivation, roles, habits and the clinical environment influence performance. Clinical practice is a demanding component of occupational therapy training and students, supervisors and tutors are encouraged to adopt a collaborative perspective to both the placement itself and the assessment process.
A Conductive Education Approach to Individuals with Motor Disorders
Authors: Clark-Wilson Jo , Gent Ann
Published: April 2015

This article aims to describe the concepts of conductive education to inform therapists of this practical approach to neurological rehabilitation. Background information of its development in Hungary and the UK is given. The work of the conductors is described and methods which facilitate learning are discussed in relation to skill acquisition. The value of the conductive education system as a therapeutic approach for individuals with neurological dysfunction is stated.
Setting Standards in Occupational Therapy
Authors: Crawford Mary
Published: April 2015

Setting standards is an integral part of a quality assurance programme. This article outlines the process used within the occupational therapy service of Fife Health Board to define standards of practice which are both relevant to the local situation and in keeping with accepted clinical practice. The process and format used were adapted from that employed within the nursing profession nationally and locally. This method can help to ensure precise interpretation of national guidelines or to set standards relevant to local issues. As such, it can be used within any occupational therapy service.
Mental Health and Mental Illness: Educating Sixth-Formers
Authors: Lake Bridget , Burgess Judith M
Published: April 2015

This article reports on the introduction of sessions on mental health, mental illness and stress management into the personal and social education programme of a lower sixth form. The mental health component aimed at giving a short historical perspective, insights into early psychological development and into the relationship between life events and vulnerability to mental illness, and information on the structure of the National Health Service and the voluntary sector with emphasis on the patient as consumer. The stress management part sought to offer strategies for coping with the changes arising characteristically in the 17–21 age group, namely autonomy, experimentation, setting one's own goals and dealing with one's own problems and disappointments. Questionnaires were used to record changes in knowledge and attitudes before and after the course, and the students also evaluated the effectiveness of the way in which the talks were delivered. Throughout the sessions, the importance of prevention, where possible, was highlighted.
Research in Occupational Therapy: Luxury or Necessity?
Authors: Goble Rita E A
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapists know that practical problems demand practical solutions which are a combination of the intuitive personal approach and planned observation. Observation must be systematic, consistent and deliberate if it is to be accurate and effective. This article recommends that all occupational therapists should have ready access to a university department or local occupational therapy school and that they should concentrate upon concise, appropriate and consistent measures of outcome. The author suggests that therapists start by looking at their own patients, and that, although researchers have traditionally sought large patient samples in the past, this approach may no longer be the most suitable, since newer and innovative approaches to research are now increasingly using single case analysis as an alternative method. Funding has always been difficult and one solution developed by St Loye's School of Occupational Therapy is put forward, that is, the establishment of a Foundation in order to promote research. With a little self-help, occupational therapists can become involved in planned observation and development of new methods. The Health Service review entitled ‘Working for Patients’ highlights the fact that the professional must withstand critical analysis from many sources, and that occupational therapists must clearly identify their product and define their focus. Occupational therapists now have the opportunity to present their observations and prove that they are not merely ‘a dying institution’ but ‘a living and influential force’.
Recruitment: An Investigation into Recruitment Problems in Occupational Therapy
Authors: Borikar Avinash , Goodban Anne
Published: April 2015

The topic of recruitment was explored by the authors during a course on ‘Role development for head occupational therapists’ in October 1988. A survey was carried out to identify aspects that occupational therapists look for in their search for a new post and aspects that help occupational therapists to remain in their present posts. As the problem of recruitment of occupational therapists is felt nationally, this article shares the findings from the survey and suggests various recruitment methods which may help to address the problem.
A Discussion on the Skills of the Occupational Therapist Working within a Multidisciplinary Team
Authors: Joice Anne , Coia Denise
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapists who have experience of working in multidisciplinary teams will be aware of the advantages and disadvantages. A frequent area of confusion and sometimes conflict lies in defining the role of the individual disciplines. This article looks at the history and the philosophy of occupational therapy and discusses the skills contributed by the occupational therapist working within a multidisciplinary team in mental health. It divides the skills of the occupational therapist into: practices restricted to occupational therapists; those expected of occupational therapists; those shared with other disciplines; and specialist skills acquired through individual interest and enthusiasm. The authors hope that it will encourage occupational therapists working in multidisciplinary teams to define more clearly, and with greater confidence, their skills in their areas of work.
Electrically Powered Upper Limb Prostheses: Their Development and Application
Authors: Hambrey Ruth A , Withinshaw Gillian
Published: April 2015

This article is based on experience gained at the Manchester Disablement Services Centre (formerly Artificial Limb and Appliance Centre) in the provision of electrically powered prostheses. Since 1978, considerable changes have taken place in the United Kingdom in the design and provision of upper limb prostheses for both adults and children. A history of the developments in the field of electrically powered prostheses is given and the role of the occupational therapist is discussed.
What Really is Therapeutic Activity?
Authors: Chandani Ashok , Hill Cathy
Published: April 2015

There is a natural bond between occupational therapy and activities. The authors focus on activities in terms of what they are, what makes them therapeutic, and how they can be enlisted to mobilise and realise the potential for function in a dysfunctional individual. In recent years few studies have been carried out which show, scientifically, that activities have many therapeutic values if used properly. This article discusses the various therapeutic uses of activities by the illustration of case studies. The aim is to stimulate the reader to carry out scientific studies about therapeutic activities, by which the activities will become an asset to the occupational therapy profession.
Integrating Information Skills into a Diploma in Occupational Therapy Course
Authors: Lyne Sarah , Walton Graham
Published: April 2015

It is becoming increasingly important for therapists to demonstrate effective skills in seeking and handling information. An integrated approach has been adopted by the course team at Newcastle Upon Tyne Polytechnic to assist students to develop information skills. An assessed workbook, completed in the first year of the course, has been introduced to enable students to acquire basic information-retrieval and information-presentation skills. Initial evaluation of the workbook has generated information regarding the learner's perception of benefits gained from completing the assignment.
Carers Support Groups: Meeting the Needs of Carers and Staff
Authors: Joice Anne , Thomson Margaret , Glynn Anne
Published: April 2015

This article describes a carers support group within a psychogeriatric day hospital and presents the results of a study. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the groups in meeting the needs of the carers, examine the opinions of the staff and the carers, and determine whether running the groups had any positive effect on staff morale. Results showed that most carers found the groups beneficial but that they did not perceive the staff to be as effective as the staff believed themselves to be; that relief to carers appeared to be more effectively provided by the attendance of their relative at the day hospital rather than at the carers support groups; and that the groups had a positive effect on staff morale by providing an opportunity for the staff to work together, feel more part of a multidisciplinary team and develop relationships within it. Possible changes that could increase the effectiveness of the groups are identified.
HIV Infection, AIDS and Occupational Therapy
Authors: Coates Rosemary , Barratt Jane
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapists need to be informed about the nature of HIV infection and AIDS, both as care providers and in terms of occupational health and safety. An overview of the natural history of the HIV and the consequences of infection is given. Safety procedures are outlined and the contribution that occupational therapists can make to the health maintenance of HIV-infected patients is described.
Numbers and Distribution of Men Entering Occupational Therapy Training 1985–88
Authors: Dent-Brown Kim
Published: April 2015

This research project aimed to establish the numbers and distribution of men and women entering occupational therapy training courses in the United Kingdom between 1985 and 1988. A questionnaire was sent to each of the 21 UK training schools then operating and the results tabulated. It was found that, although there was an increase both in the absolute number of men entering training and in the ratio of men to women, these increases were not statistically significant. There was a statistically significant difference between the ratio of men to women entering the in-service training courses and the ratio entering all other courses. The results are discussed and some possible reasons for differences observed are put forward.
Clinical Practice: A Student-Centred Learning Package
Authors: Warrender Fiona
Published: April 2015

Clinical practice is an essential part of occupational therapy education. In order to rationalise training school objectives and the student's needs with the learning experiences offered by an occupational therapy department, a student-centred learning package was developed. The package uses a structured and sequential format, which employs experience check lists, incomplete handouts, and both structured and informal feedback to optimise the learning environment. This permits a more complete evaluation of personal performance by the student and a consistent approach to supervision, and leads to a more accurate final assessment.
A Method for Assessing Dressing Skills in Elderly Patients
Authors: Davies Ann D M , Smith Christine , Gargaro Paula , Dodd Adrienne , Newton J T
Published: April 2015

As part of a study investigating the relation between elderly patients' cognitive level and occupational therapy improvement, a method for assessing dressing skills was devised. The article describes this method of assessing dressing skills in elderly patients during the first dressing session of occupational therapy. The scoring of behaviour is based on a principle of minimum prompting, whereby greater credit is given for unprompted behaviour than for dressing after verbal or physical prompts. The method has high inter-rater reliability and correlates with a global performance test of activities of daily living.
Searching the Occupational Therapy Journal Literature
Authors: Barber Graeme
Published: April 2015

This article describes the value of a literature search for research purposes, and outlines the problems of searching the occupational therapy journal literature. The major indexes and abstracts to use in searching for material are described.
Who is the Client? The Community Occupational Therapy Support to Elderly Dementia Patients and their Carers in West Dorset
Authors: Evans Eileen
Published: April 2015

In West Dorset, patients with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, and their carers, are supported at home by multidisciplinary teams comprising both health and social services personnel. It is recognised that occupational therapists have a specific role to play within the teams; however, the identification of a more general professional role has been neglected. Körner requires face-to-face contact information for DSS statistics, but the role of the occupational therapist extends beyond direct client contact. This study involved three geographical areas of West Dorset with senior occupational therapists, who between them cared for an average of 61 dementia patients. The results indicated a significant gap in the recording of client casework; in particular, there appeared to be a significant role for the occupational therapist in carer support, which seemed to be a determining factor in assisting a dementia patient to continue life in the community. Quantification of patient contact alone was, therefore, an insufficient measure of the role of the occupational therapist. The need to identify the broader contribution, especially in carer support, was paramount.
The International Course on Conductive Education at the Petö András State Institute for Conductive Education, Budapest
Authors: Macdonald Jenny
Published: April 2015

This article offers a personal view of the International Course on Conductive Education, which the author attended in 1988. The course is open to those who have a professional interest in people with motor disabilities. The article includes the philosophy and practical organisation of the Petö Institute.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Part 1. Background and Diagnosis
Authors: Drummond Avril
Published: April 2015

Few articles have been written specifically for therapists treating patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). This literature review is intended as a quick reference on the disease. It concentrates on the signs and symptoms of GBS and looks at its aetiology and incidence.
A Philosophy Unique to Occupational Therapy
Authors: Mayers Christine A
Published: April 2015

This article aims to remind occupational therapists of some key aspects of the unique philosophy that should be underpinning our professional practice. It is hoped that the article will encourage therapists to read more about occupational therapy philosophy as there is much being written on the subject in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy and then to discuss the philosophy of their own practice within both department and district. This is particularly important with the health care changes rapidly occurring at this time.
The Long-Term Needs of Brain-Injured People: A Pragmatic Solution
Authors: Series Catherine
Published: April 2015

This article examines the national lack of appropriate provision for adults with non-progressive acquired brain damage and describes the attempts of a group of professionals to find a low-cost solution.
‘Working for Patients’ and ‘Caring for People’: The Same Philosophy?
Authors: Wheeler Neil
Published: April 2015

The article looks at the two recent white papers, ‘Working for Patients’ and ‘Caring for People’, in terms of their philosophy, content and driving forces. Consideration is given to the effect of simultaneous implementation.
Occupational Therapy and the Lower Limb Amputee in Western Australia
Authors: Sinclair Anne M
Published: April 2015

This article gives an account of the provision of occupational therapy for tower limb amputees at a general hospital with an elderly population in Western Australia. The occupational therapist is a member of both the surgical and the prosthetic teams. This allows each patient to be followed through from admission to discharge and responsibility is continued for the amputee at home. The occupational therapy programme is described with particular reference to the structure of the health system and its implications for therapy; the occupational therapist's role on the surgical and prosthetic teams; the provision of aids including temporary equipment issued for weekend leave; and the occupational therapist's role in functional retraining, education, home visiting and support.
An Evaluation of the Mitchell Method of Simple Physiological Relaxation for Women with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Jackson Thérèse
Published: April 2015

The study described here to an evaluation of the Mitchell method of simple physiological relaxation in the reduction of muscle tension for women with rheumatoid arthritis. The findings indicate that this technique may reduce muscle tension and counteract the body position adopted when stressed.
The Therapeutic Relationship
Authors: Lloyd Chris , Maas Frikkie
Published: April 2015

The relationship established between the occupational therapist and the patient is a key element in facilitating therapy. This article examines the nature of the therapeutic relationship and discusses the various issues that need to be considered when estabilshing this relationship.
Zen in the Art of Occupational Therapy, Part Two
Authors: Kelly Greg , McFarlane Heather
Published: April 2015

In the first part of this article, it was suggested that Chinese philosophy could provide the basis for a new, modified, holistic approach to occupational therapy. The second part reveals that some of the basic principles of Chinese philosophy are already, albeit indirectly, being used in occupational therapy management and treatment, for example, general systems theory and sensory integration theory. Other possible applications are explored.
The Essential Skills of an Occupational Therapist
Authors: Thorner Sally
Published: April 2015

In response to the significant changes in the prevision of health care services expected during the 1990s, occupational therapists in West Dorset Health Authority have been producing documents for use by therapists, managers and other professionals which identify occupational therapy core skills and highlight the uniqueness of the occupational therapy profession. This article looks at the philosophical base of occupational therapy and its professional status and seeks to outline the essential skills of an occupational therapist.
Factors Affecting Parents' Role as Co-Therapists: A Pilot Study of Parents of Children with Motor-Learning Difficulties
Authors: Maclean Morven F , Chesson Rosemary
Published: April 2015

A pilot study was carried out to investigate the nature and extent of parents' participation in home remedial activities. Twelve mothers whose children were in receipt of treatment from a hospital occupational therapy department were interviewed. The main obstacles to home activities are reported. A major finding was that most mothers' participation was limited, and fathers' involvement was often seen by mothers to be minimal.
Work Stress in Occupational Therapists Assessed by the Occupational Stress Indicator
Authors: Rees David W , Smith Simon D
Published: April 2015

Levels and sources of work-related stress, measures of type A behaviour pattern and perceived locus of control, use of coping strategies and indicators of work-related stress (mental and physical ill health, sickness absence and job satisfaction ratings) were examined in 60 members of two district occupational therapy departments as part of a larger study of stress within health service employees. Comparisons were made with other professions allied to medicine (PAMs) and nurses on these measures and were used as the basis for comparing occupational stress variables across health service groups. Overall, occupational therapy staff reported similar levels of stress to junior hospital doctors, less than physiotherapists and most nursing groups (particularly those working with psychiatric patients); they were middle ranking amongst paramedical groups but experienced more stress than administrative and clerical staff and general managers. Occupational therapy staff scored lower than nurses and other PAMs, as a group, on measures of type A behaviour pattern (although they were equally ambitious) and had similar scores on perception of control items. They were ranked second of 17 in their reported use of a range of coping strategies.

Whilst occupational therapy emerges from this study as an attractive profession (being ranked sixth of 17 NHS groups on job satisfaction), staff reported relatively high levels of emotional and physical ill health symptoms and a middle ranking for sickness absence. Thirteen (22%) of the occupational therapy staff had scores on either mental or physical ill health, or both, that were equal to or greater than the average score of patients attending clinical psychology departments with problems of anxiety or depression. The results of this first reported comparative study of workplace stress in occupational therapy staff in the UK are discussed and suggestions made for overcoming the unwanted effects of stress.
Occupational Science
Authors: Wilcock Ann Allart
Published: April 2015

This article describes the emergence of occupational science as the knowledge base for occupational therapy. It recognises the work of Hie faculty of occupational therapy at the University of Southern California as the instigator of this development, and traces the origin of occupational science to occupational therapy pioneers m the USA in the first decades of this century. Research into the complexities of the interaction between people and occupations is suggested as of prime importance to the study of health and the future of occupational therapy. Occupational therapists are encouraged to become scientists by challenging the basic assumptions of their profession.
Occupational Therapy in Stroke Rehabilitation: Implications of Research into Therapy Outcome
Authors: Eakin Pamela
Published: April 2015

The results of research studies into the outcome of therapy in stroke rehabilitation were reviewed in the first article. It was found that research has not consistently supported current approaches to treatment. In this second article, the implications of the research for the practice of occupational therapy are outlined. In addition, the different perspectives of physiotherapy and occupational therapy in their approaches to the treatment of stroke patients are discussed.
The Use of ADL Indices by Occupational Therapists
Authors: McAvoy Elma
Published: April 2015

For many years, therapists Nave been encouraged to introduce standardised measurements of activities of daily living (AOL) for clinical and research purposes. However, despite the many benefits attributed to this type of assessment, they appear to be reluctant to make use of the many available standardised indices. A survey was carried out into the use of ADL measurement scales in occupational therapy departments in Northern Ireland which treated physical conditions only. Of the 15 departments that responded, none used a standardised form while 11 used department-specific forms, the content of which is explained. This result follows the findings of previous literature, that therapists prefer to use their own forms as opposed to standardised indices. Possible reasons for this are suggested.
The Long-Term Needs of People with Head Injury: A Role for the Community Occupational Therapist?
Authors: Series Catherine
Published: April 2015

This article examines the effect of the long-term sequelae of severe head injury upon such patients and their families. It considers, through a case study, the possible role of a community-based occupational therapist in helping to remedy some of these difficulties, using the model of human occupation as a basis for therapeutic intervention.
The Use of Play in Occupational Therapy for Children: What is Play?
Authors: Bracegirdle Hazel
Published: April 2015

This article introduces some of the theoretical principles that inform the use of play in the treatment of children with disabilities. A number of competing definitions of play and its functions are briefly discussed. Both educationalists and child psychotherapists make claims for the value of play but tend to offer quite different explanations of why it helps vulnerable children, whilst animal ethologists stress the role of play in promoting survival and adaptation. Some of the key ideas of historically important play theorists, including Freud, Klein, Winnicott, Froebel, Montessori and Piaget, are mentioned.
Stranger in a Strange Land: A Consumer Guide to Occupational Therapy
Authors: Beynon Susan
Published: April 2015

This article looks at ways in which the customs and language of occupational therapy can be shared with patients to promote consumerism, patient choice and active participation in treatment programmes.
Report on Euro Ergo: 4th European Congress of Occupational Therapy, 5–8 May 1992, Ostend
Authors: Stewart A M
Published: April 2015

This report is a kaleidoscope of patterns and images perceived by some of the UK representatives and described here with the intention of inspiring others to participate in the next international congress, which will be the WFOT Congress to be held in London in April 1994.
Therapy Needs of Children in Mainstream Education
Authors: Gregory J W , Fairgrieve E M , Anderson D M , Hammond H F
Published: April 2015

The physiotherapy and occupational therapy needs of physically handicapped children attending mainstream schools were evaluated by the use of a parent's and a teacher's questionnaire and associated with random assessment as a tool to identify and assess therapy needs. The questionnaire has been found useful in updating information about these pupils' functional difficulties and in identifying areas in which quality of life and education could be improved by the increased input from therapists to mainstream schools. The results suggest that one occupational therapist and one physiotherapist will be required to provide this service in an urban population of 180,000 people. This finding has major resource implications.
Occupational Therapy in a Memory Clinic
Authors: Robinson Susanna
Published: April 2015

Memory loss needs to be recognised as usually being the symptom of a disease, such as dementia, and not accepted merely as part of the normal ageing process. Memory clinics, developed to promote this concept, provide both an assessment resource for the increasing numbers of elderly people with memory problems and a focus for research into dementia. Although occupational therapists have not previously been included in such clinics' multidisciplinary assessment teams, experience at the Bath Memory Clinic identified this as a requirement. This article describes the main tasks of the occupational therapist and suggests that this is an essential role within a memory clinic setting.
The Requirement for Ethical Reasoning in Occupational Therapy Education
Authors: Pinnington Lorraine , Bagshaw Avril
Published: April 2015

This first article outlines how student research projects have developed over the past 10 years, resulting in the subsequent need to expand the subject of ethical reasoning in the education of occupational therapists. The literature is examined in respect of providing learning opportunities on ethical matters for the student, particularly in the preparation of an investigative study, the formation and administration of ethical screening procedures with in a school of occupational therapy are described as a means of providing an experiential understanding of ethical issues for students. In a second article, the implications and outcome of this initiative are discussed.
An Adjustable Thermoplastic Knee Brace, Directly Moulded and Colour Coordinated
Authors: Cunliffe M W
Published: April 2015

The knee brace described was developed to give a low cost knee brace of sufficient rigidity, quality of fit and comfort to the patient's leg. The brace is custom moulded from thermoplastic material and incorporates a ready-made adjustable knee hinge. It has a colour coordinated covering of beige towelling and securing straps of red Velcro, the latter being attractive to the younger patient who has been the main user. Its main use to date has been application following a Leeds-Keio anterior cruciate ligament implant at the Royal Preston Hospital. The study comprised 30 patients.
Models for Practice in Occupational Therapy: Part 2, What Use are They?
Authors: Feaver Sally , Creek Jennifer
Published: April 2015

The second part of this article presents arguments for the value of models for practice in occupational therapy and suggests some of their limitations. The article concludes by inviting readers to reflect on these two positions.
‘What's on Tap … ?’ An Assessment of Tapturners and Taphead Adaptors
Authors: Swinkels Annette , Clarke A K
Published: April 2015

This article reports on the results of a recent assessment of tapturners and taphead adaptors carried out at the Disability Equipment Assessment Centre in Bath and funded by the Department of Health. In addition to specific difficulties associated with particular products, there are major disadvantages to the use of tapturners in general. The study concludes that tapturners should only be used as an interim measure. Patients with rheumatological involvement of the upper limbs should use levertaps. A further study is in progress to assess levertaps.
Core Skills and Competencies: Part 4, Application and Expectation
Authors: Hollis Vivien
Published: April 2015

Given the current interest in workforce efficacy and efficiency, as evidenced by the number of initiatives termed ‘skill mix studies’, ‘re-profiling exercises’ and ‘job evaluation’, occupational therapists need to define explicitly what certain grades of staff can be expected to do. This last article in the series supplements research described in part 3 and offers a different perspective on how to deal with the issue of defining clinical input. The work presented is the practical application, interpretation and augmentation of initial findings.1
Implications for Occupational Therapy Services following the Reed Report
Authors: Flood Brenda
Published: April 2015

This article represents a personal viewpoint following the publication of the Reed Report, which is likely to bring about changes in the provision of forensic psychiatric services. Contained within the Reed Report are recommendations, some of which will directly affect the occupational therapy profession. Occupational therapists need to be aware of the recommendations made and to take a proactive role in their implementation and development. This article outlines the main recommendations and highlights the implications of these for occupational therapy practice.
‘Deeply Troubling Questions’: The Teaching of Ethics in Undergraduate Courses
Authors: Barnitt Rosemary E
Published: April 2015

‘The professional is always at risk if the practice has not developed an ethical discipline.’ Ethical issues are challenging the providers of health care in the UK. Occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech and language therapists cannot detach themselves from this development, and clinicians are confronted by a variety of moral issues while delivering patient care. A postal survey of all undergraduate courses in occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech and language therapy in the UK was undertaken to find out how the teaching of ethics and moral reasoning was tackled in these programmes. It was discovered that the teaching of ethics was not a particularly well developed aspect of many courses, and that there was some uncertainty about what, how and when the topic of ethics should be addressed. A strong theme that emerged was the need for integration of ethics teaching with professional studies so that ethics was not seen as just an academic subject. There was little agreement over procedures for giving codes of professional practice to the students. Some examples of innovative practice with regard to both these issues are given.
Occupational Therapy and Dietetic Therapy with a Group of Female Psychiatric Patients: An Evaluation of Outcome
Authors: Merriman Sheila H , Kench Kay
Published: April 2015

Eight female patients attended up to eight group sessions run conjointly by an occupational therapist and a dietitian. Video feedback was used during the course of sessions. The patients were all residents in long-term care in the Continuing Care Division of St Andrew's Hospital and had been identified by medical staff as wishing to lose weight and having scope for improvement in posture and/or appearance. Seven of the eight subjects lost weight [mean loss (n=8) 1.18 kg: range −3.1 kg to +2.4 kg]. There was a significant weight loss in these seven subjects (t=3.669, df=6, significant at 0.01 level). The authors judged that there had been improvement in one or more areas of posture and/or appearance in seven of the eight patients.