bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frames of Reference in the Care of Migrant Patients
Authors: Tebbutt Margaret , Wade Beverly
Published: September 2010

Those who organise and deliver health services to migrants are predominantly of Anglo‐Celtic origin. They have had little opportunity either through their life experiences or through their professional training to become aware of the political, economic and social conditions that existed in Australia following the second world war.

This paper describes the five main phases of post World War II immigration and explores the origins of social attitudes that underpin the responses of some members of the receiving society to the arrival of successive waves of immigrants. While the ethic upon which migration has been based has moved from assimilationist through integrationist, to that of ethic minorities with minority's rights, the ethic informing the delivery of health services seems to have remained, predominantly, in the assimilationist mould. Structural changes which have occurred, such as interpreter services, tend to entrench further existing health care delivery practices, averting the need for far reaching change.

The experiences of some therapists attached to the Occupational Therapy Industrial Unit of Royal South Sydney Hospital are reviewed and some strategies to reduce the impact of an “accident victim syndrome” through preventative intervention at the workplace are discussed.

It is suggested that more documentation of the experience of therapists caring for patients with a migrant background may lead to improved patient care.
Who Needs a Theory of Occupational Therapy? Do You?
Authors: Alexander Loris , French Glenys , Graham Jenny , King Linda , Timewell Eric
Published: September 2010

A group of Melbourne based occupational therapy educators and clinicians question the need for a paradigm for occupational therapy. They claim that professional status is more dependent upon expert organization (formal and informal) of the profession and its external relations than on conceptual and theoretical consensus. Identification of the state‐of‐the‐art of occupational therapy is held to be an important first step in the move towards better organization and relations with other health professions. Occupational therapists Australia‐wide are asked to assist in the identification process.
Normal Spaces in Abnormal Places: The Significance of Environment in Occupational Therapy with Hospitalised Teenagers
Authors: Denshire Sally
Published: September 2010

The increasing orientation of adolescents toward social contacts outside their families makes them organise in peer groups and subcultures which provide the space to act out generational concerns collectively. For some young people, the hospital setting is an environment in which they find themselves repeatedly. People usually decide to enter environments that are relevant to them. However in hospital, there are usually few familiar artifacts and the patient has little choice about being there.

For young people to attain independence, they must experience competence and autonomy. In an attempt to capture some of the features of ordinary life, the sort of inanimate, social and temporal features within the hospital environment that facilitate independent behaviour must be available to youth: features like personal space and access to the peer group. When environmental requirements such as these are available, then occupational therapy can enable young people who are hospitalised to get back in touch with their abilities. During adolescence, the struggle for autonomy is at its peak. The hospital system demands of young people a passive and vulnerable role in which feelings of helplessness are exacerbated. In order to continue development in hospital, young people need appropriate spaces. At The Children's Hospital in Sydney, a Youth Ward is soon to be established. The establishment of such a ward is tangible acknowledgement that teenage patients support each other and receive better and more comprehensive care when they are grouped together.

The occupational therapy approach discussed here recognises how important environment is in the healthy development of young people.
Teaching the Disabled Adolescent to Drive
Authors: Gregory Sue
Published: September 2010

This paper outlines findings from a study tour of United States of America and Canada to study driver evaluation and training programmes for the disabled. The role of occupational therapy in this developing field is presented and the author focuses on issues pertaining to the adolescent driver.
Effects of Depression, Self‐Blame and Dependency on Health Professionals' Evaluation of Paraplegic Patients
Authors: NORDHOLM LENA , WESTBROOK MARY
Published: September 2010

Health professionals (N = 146) were given 14 rating scales, on which to evaluate interviews with paraplegics who expressed either depression, optimism, dependence, independence, self‐blame or denial of blame, regarding their injuries. Patient mood had least effect on ratings. Depressed patients were perceived as behaving more typically and appropriately, and judged as more in need of counselling than optimistic patients. Self‐blaming paraplegics were rated as more depressed, dependent, poorly adjusted, coping less well, less likeable and more in need of counselling than patients who denied blame. Dependent patients were seen as more depressed, self‐blaming, poorly adjusted, coping less well, having poorer prognoses, needing more information and counselling, and acting less appropriately than independent patients. Results reveal clinical attitudes, some of which are at variance with research findings, e.g. patient optimism tends to be discounted and the value of self‐blame as a coping strategy is unrecognised.
Occupational Therapy Assessment in Body Image Disturbance
Authors: TREVAN‐HAWKE JUDITH A.
Published: September 2010

The development and assessment of body image distortion in relation to physical and psychosocial dysfunction is discussed in relation to the validity of psychomotor, psychodynamic and behavioural approaches. A literature search of treatment procedures reveals that to date no single approach can be considered more reliable or valid than any other in body image disturbance.
Research in Occupational Therapy: Meta‐analysis
Authors: CUSICK ANNE
Published: September 2010

Meta‐analysis is a statistical technique that can be used in occupational therapy research. This paper describes the features, advantages and disadvantages of the technique, and reviews the incidence of its use in occupational therapy literature. Recommendations are made regarding the use of meta‐analysis in occupational therapy research.
Immediate Effect of Working Splints on Grip Strength of Arthritic Patients
Authors: ANDERSON KIM , MAAS FRIKKIE
Published: September 2010

The Study described in this paper tests the assumption that, because splinting reduces pain, unconscious relaxation of grip will be reduced, resulting in an immediate increase in grip strength. It also aims to determine which type of splint might be most beneficial. The averages of three trials with a Sphygmomanometer by ninety‐two female rheumatoid arthritic (RA) volunteers, aged between mid twenties to late seventies, were analysed by a single classification ANOVA. This ananysis yielded no significant differences between four types of splint wearing and a control group, for both dominant and non‐dominant hands. Similarly, no significant differences in grip strength were revealed between various pain levels, as measured by the Ritchie scale, though the results suggest the possibility of a trend that should be investigated further.
Accountability, Standards and Accreditation: Exploring the Link
Authors: ANDERSON BARBARA
Published: September 2010

In this paper, the author explores accountability, standards and acreditation as issues affecting health care professionals. The role of accreditation as a mechanism for accountability is described and the notion that accountability is a vital component of quality assurance discussed. The initiatives of particular health care professions in setting standards and promoting quality assurance amongst their members are explored. The author concludes that the health care professions have much to gain from involvement in the process of review and evaluation.
Changes in Attitudes Towards Self, Career and Women's Roles Among Occupational Therapy Students, 1976–1986
Authors: NORDHOLM LENA , WESTBROOK MARY
Published: September 2010

A survey comparing backgrounds, career attitudes, sex‐role attitudes and self‐concepts of incoming female occupational therapy students in 1976 (N = 99) and 1986 (N = 118) was conducted in 1986. The 1986 students were more ambitious, more committed to full‐time careers, and attached more importance to professional recognition, respect and friendliness from coworkers, job security and promotion opportunities as well as chances to accomplish something worthwhile. Accompanying these career attitudes were more liberated and egalitarian attitudes toward women and more positive and androgynous self‐concepts.
Early Intervention: Some Issues in Co‐operative Team Work
Authors: MAPLE GWYNNYTH
Published: September 2010

Working in teams appears to be the currently acceptable way of providing early intervention services for children and families with special needs. Different approaches to teamwork have been identified and a sizeable amount of literature has developed around potential sources of disruption to team work. An area often overlooked is the role played by the individual, both as a person and in the position they occupy in the team. In this article ways in which individual team membership can be reviewed and the team as a whole can be considered are presented.
A Taxonomy of Playfulness for use in Occupational Therapy
Authors: LYONS MIKE
Published: September 2010

Occupational therapy intervention requires the active involvement of clients for beneficial effects on their health to occur. Clients may be reluctant to participate in selected activities, however. Focussing on a play context, consideration is given to facilitating client motivation to engage in play activity. A taxonomy of playfulness is presented and its application in practice discussed.
Eminence of Contributors to the Field of Occupational Therapy: A Text Book Definition
Authors: DEAN ELIZABETH , ROSE SUZANNE
Published: September 2010

This study used citation analysis to assess eminence of contributors to the profession of occupational therapy. Authors were rank ordered according to frequency of citation in an established text of occupational therapy. Rank orders were compared for authors cited in three editions of Willard and Spackman's Principles of Occupational Therapy 1947, 1965 and 1983. Rank order for authors with more than three citations in the 1983 edition was compared with the rank order for the same authors based on frequency of citation in the Science Citation IndexR and the Social Sciences Citation IndexR for 1982 and 1983. Correlations of the rank orders in text and citation indexes were statistically nonsignificant (p > .05). Also, chi‐square analysis failed to support a relationship between the citation frequency of both highly and poorly cited contributors to the text and their citation frequencies in the Citation Indexes (p > .05). We observed more referencing in the recent editions compared with earlier editions of Willard and Spackman. These results are discussed in light of recent trends in occupational therapy toward research and the establishment of a unique body knowledge for the profession. We predict that future studies will demonstrate a stronger relationship between individuals acknowledged as eminent contributors to the profession and their citation frequencies in the professional literature.
Characteristics of 1986 First Year Occupational Therapy Students at Lincoln Institute of Health Sciences
Authors: MOCELLIN GEORGE , BRYCE JENNIFER
Published: September 2010

This paper presents the findings of a survey aimed at determining specific biographical, educational, attitudinal, and aptitudinal characteristics of students at the beginning of the 1986 first year occupational therapy course at Lincoln Institute of Health Sciences. It suggests that these types of data could assist in the identification of factors, in addition to the ones related to gender, which may contribute to the professional attrition of occupational therapists. It also suggests that these additional factors may need to be considered when planning and reviewing undergraduate curricula and in devising criteria for selection of students for occupational therapy. These assumptions, however, need to be further investigated.
Activities of Daily Living: An Area of Occupational Therapy Expertise
Authors: THORNTON GAY , RENNIE HELEN
Published: September 2010

If occupational therapists are to provide services in the area of activities of daily living in such a way as to demonstrate their uniqueness and expertise, they must be clear in their own minds as to their uniqueness and the value of their contributions. They must also be able to communicate these effectively to others. This paper approaches the problem from two perspectives. Firstly, stimulated by the results of a survey of Royal Perth Hospital occupational therapists and a review of the literature, the authors describe a definition and classification of activities of daily living developed in order to standardise terminology and organise the content of treatment reports. Secondly, a professional model is presented to explain the uniqueness of occupational therapy in terms of activities of daily living. The use of these approaches in justifying occupational therapy intervention and communicating it to others is discussed.
Old Values versus New Developments: How will Occupational Therapists adapt to Technological Change?
Authors: MADILL H. M. , BRINTNELL E. S. G. , STEWIN L. L. , FITZSIMMONS G. W. , MACNAB D.
Published: September 2010

The authors have demonstrated in recent research that occupational therapists strongly endorse patient‐oriented values. While they may be highly respected within the profession, the priority that these values are given in undergraduate education may be detrimental to the development of occupational therapy as an applied science. This paper presents an analysis of the values that Canadian therapists endorse and the roles that they currently consider to be most important. Research findings comparing the values endorsed by occupational therapists and other professional research/managerial women are presented, providing interesting contrasts which should be of benefit to clinicians and educators in planning for a future which will definitely require increasing therapists' interface with technology.
Occupational Therapy 1981–1986: Trends and Implications
Authors: ALLEN FELICITY , GRAHAM JENNY , HIEP MARGARET , TONKIN JAN
Published: September 2010

This article reports the main findings of a Victorian occupational therapy labour force survey (1986). The survey was conducted in two parts. The first part sought information from heads of departments of occupational therapy and sole practitioners and focused on current and proposed future staff establishments and recruitment and retention problems. The second part sought data from both practising and nonpractising occupational therapists on career patterns, career and professional development plans and reasons for temporary or permanent withdrawal from the labour force. The findings of the survey are placed in the context of occupational therapy in Australia and their implications for educators, employers and practitioners are discussed.
Adaptation to Physical Disability as a Function of Locus of Control: A Literature Review
Authors: MAAS FRIKKIE , de JONGE DESLEIGH , McKENNA KRYSS
Published: September 2010

Occupational therapists have been concerned traditionally with the “total” person, a focus which promotes their involvement in the process of adaptation to physical disability. Introduced to occupational therapy by Kielhofner and Burke (1980), the concept of locus of control has increasingly gained support as being inherent in the process of adaptation. This paper reviews current research findings which relate locus of control to health‐related behaviours, and explores the relevance of this concept to adaptation. It is argued that, although the role of locus of control remains unclear in the process of adaptation, and variable findings continue to appear in the literature, this concept would seem to have implications for occupational therapists in the development of effective intervention strategies and in appropriate therapeutic prescription when attempting to facilitate the adaptation process. Suggestions and specifications for future research are outlined.
Occupational Therapy: Still at Work
Authors: INNES EV
Published: September 2010

Many occupational therapists are moving into the field of occupational health and safety. This move is a reflection of the political and economic climate of Australia as well as the changing legislation related to occupational health. Only New South Wales legislation will, however, be examined in this instance. Occupational therapy's move from a medical model to a holistic conceptual basis has also resulted in an increased awareness of primary prevention strategies and health promotion. The workplace‐based strategies which occupational therapists can offer the corporate sector are many and varied and reflect the unique contribution to be made by the profession to occupational health and safety.
Survey of Appropriate Provision and Usage of Prescribed Equipment — the Clients' Perspective
Authors: KEATING WENDY , McLEAN DOROTHY , QUINSEY KAREN
Published: September 2010

This survey was designed to assess the quality of one aspect of occupational therapy service: the prescription and provision of equipment to clients. One hundred clients were randomly selected from occupational therapy records held in the hospital and community centre. The questionnaire surveyed both self care and mobility equipment. Results showed that the majority of clients (98.2 percent used their equipment regularly. Seventy percent of clients perceived they had received instruction for safe usage of equipment. The quality of the equipment was rated by 82 percent of clients as ‘good’. Most clients (75 percent) had received their equipment through a government organisation and were able to identify where to return the equipment accurately.
Art in Psychosocial Occupational Therapy: Guidelines for Use and an Art Exercise Battery
Authors: HUGHES JANET
Published: September 2010

Occupational therapists working in the psychosocial field may use art techniques to facilitate their clients' self expression, creativity, insight and progress in therapy. However some, lacking specific training or experience, may hesitate to use art regularly or to any great degree. The purpose of this paper is to provide such therapists with guidelines for using art in therapy, and to describe an art exercise battery which has been used successfully for four years in a psychiatric day hospital.
A Social Support Group for Depressed People
Authors: BOSWELL SUSAN
Published: September 2010

This study aimed to help depressed psychiatric patients develop support networks. A nine‐week programme was designed to develop participants' skills in communication, improve their feelings of self‐esteem and self‐worth, reduce their feelings of depression and develop supportive relationships. This developmental programme was implemented and evaluated by an occupational therapist and a social worker. The ten participants completed two questionnaires and a diary pre and post programme to evaluate changes in levels of depression, anxiety and social behaviour. There were statistically significant changes in the depression (p < .01) and anxiety (p < .05) levels, as measured on the Beck Depression Inventory and Spielberges Self Evaluation Questionnaire. Although there were no statistically significant changes in social behaviour, there were positive trends. Whilst these results were encouraging, there was no control group with which to compare the figures. Findings are discussed and several recommendations made for future programmes.
Living Skills Centres for People with Serious Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: WEIR WENDY , ROSEN ALAN
Published: September 2010

Many people with a serious psychiatric disorder live in our community. Some experience numerous admissions to psychiatric hospitals which disrupt their lives and cause suffering to their families, whilst others live precariously in the community without adequate support. Some, through their association with the Living Skills Centre established in the Lower North Shore area of Sydney in 1977, are attempting to avoid this lifestyle of constant disruption. This community‐based rehabilitation service was an innovative service delivery system established by the New South Wales Department of Health in 1977 and consequently had no model on which to base its activities. However, overseas and local studies now confirm that this type of service can effectively maintain these people in their local environment and assist them to lead more satisfying lives. In this paper, the authors describe this Living Skills Centre and discuss the reasons for its success.
Providing Education and Support Groups for the Ageing Population
Authors: MacDonald Margaret , Lovell Robin , McKeown Prue , Beagley David , Emmerson Kaye , Coghill Dianne , Harris Julie
Published: September 2010

This paper highlights the changing services in occupational therapy for the veteran population at the Repatriation General Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria. This hospital primarily treats entitled veterans of all wars, including Vietnam, and their dependants. The average age of this population is increasing. The authors hope to describe how occupational therapists, in conjunction with other paramedicals, are rising to the challenge of helping to maintain quality of life, self‐esteem and dignity for elderly patients and their care‐givers. The needs of the elderly veteran population are no different from the needs of the majority of elderly people, so the information presented will be relevant to all occupational therapists working with the elderly.
Genesis of Occupation: A Philosophical Model for Therapy and Theory
Authors: Breines Estelle
Published: September 2010

Occupational genesis is an evolutional/developmental theme based on concepts developed by the philosophers of pragmatism, Dewey, James, Meade and Pierce. Their influence on the Chicago community where occupational therapy originated is described. By bringing this philosophy to light as occupational therapy's conceptual foundation, modern theorists and practitioners can be understood to be united in their beliefs despite differences in practice orientations. This concept of pragmatic origin, to which Adolf Meyer adhered, is proposed as occupational therapy's central theme. Occupational genesis describes the development of function through orientations of egocentricity, exocentricity and consensuality, a sequence repeated throughout life in the acquisition of skill. The relationship is described between inherited and acquired automatic behaviour and purposeful activity, and their roles in adaptive development. The relevance of this conceptual system for the profession and for health care is suggested.
Use of Magic in Psychiatric Occupational Therapy: Rationale, Results and Recommendations
Authors: Lyons Mike , Menolotto Anne Marie
Published: September 2010

Activity is at the core of the occupational therapy process. One activity which has received little attention from therapists is magic. Yet, it possesses characteristics which suggest considerable potential for therapeutic application. In this paper, the authors outline the rationale, procedure and results of a pilot programme undertaken in the day centre of a hospital psychiatric unit, along ***wtih some recommendations for the use of magic. It combined the resources of a magician and two occupational therapists in teaching participants a variety of magic tricks. The results presented highlight the evaluations of the participants themselves as to the perceived benefits of magic.
A Review of the Professional Position of Occupational Therapy in Australia
Authors: Griffin Susan
Published: September 2010

The professional development of occupational therapy in Australia is a cause for celebration. I propose now to tell you why I believe this to be so.
Understanding Lymphoedema and the Occupational Therapist's Role
Authors: Collard Victoria
Published: September 2010

Lymphoedema is a problem affecting millions of people throughout the world. In Australia, by far the most common group of people suffering from lymphoedema are women following treatment for breast cancer. Lymphoedema is caused by a dysfunction in the lymph system resulting in an accumulation of protein in the affected tissues. Oedema occurs because of the colloidal osmotic pressure exerted by the excess proteins. Treatment for lymphoedema must be aimed at the mobilisation of stagnant proteins, not simply the removal of excess water. Treatment involves manual lymph drainage, compression, exercise, skin care and education. Occupational therapists must recognise that improving the occupational performance of clients suffering from lymphoedema extends past prescription of pressure garments. The programme for lymphoedema management at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Occupational Therapy Department is discussed.
The Image of the Profession in the Field of Developmental Disability: A Decade of Writing
Authors: Llewellyn Gwynnyth
Published: September 2010

The contents of a profession's journal portray one image of that profession. This paper reports a review of articles on developmental disability published in the Australian Occupational Therapy Journal over the last decade. Two levels of analysis were conducted on the twenty‐one articles located. Five themes were identified: treatment programmes, disorders and associated deficits, service delivery systems, role definition and concepts and principles. Possible reasons for the appearance and frequency of these themes are advanced. Implications of the image portrayed through these articles are discussed within the context of current occupational therapy practice in the field of developmental disability.
Do Occupational Therapists Treat the Whole Person?
Authors: Fordyce Meredith
Published: September 2010

Within occupational therapy there is a pervasive belief that occupational therapists treat the whole person and that this is a good thing. In this paper I examine the meanings and origins of the phrase “occupational therapists treat the whole person” and conclude that due to ambiguity of meaning and unsound basis, the phrase should be discarded from occupational therapy discourse.
Vocational Evaluation: The Use of Work Samples
Authors: Lloyd Chris , Fiqir Nasir
Published: September 2010

A more scientific, objective and professional approach is needed by occupational therapists if they wish to ensure a role in vocational evaluation. The use of work samples in evaluating vocational potential and as a basis for recommending individualised treatment programming is one possible approach. In this article, the author explores the process involved in vocational evaluation and suggests various benefits from following such a procedure.
The Use of the Soft Splint in the Management of Spasticity of the Upper Limb
Authors: Wallen Margaret , O'Flaherty Stephen
Published: September 2010

The Soft Splint is a cylindrical foam splint first developed for use by Anderson, Snow, Dorey and Kabo (1988) to reduce knee contractures. The splint has been adapted for use with the upper limbs. This article describes the fabrication of the Soft Splint and its utilisation with clients with increased tone of the upper limb. The rationale for use of the Soft Splint is supported by the literature which has been reviewed in this article. Further research is required into the most effective utilisation of the Soft Splint; however, it is proving to be a valuable splint in the management of increased tone in the upper limb.
Correcting the Sitting Posture of a Person with a Hindquarter Amputation
Authors: Patterson Kim , Michael Shona
Published: September 2010

This case study presents an approach to correcting the sitting posture of a person with a hindquarter amputation. The problems presented by a particular client are discussed with reference to his anatomy and posture. The materials and techniques for producing a pelvic orthosis are described. The production procedure consists of measurement, manufacture and fitting. The orthosis is lightweight, customised and can be made within the hospital environment using easily obtainable materials. The sitting posture and interface pressure distribution obtained using the pelvic orthosis are compared with those from non‐adapted seating. A marked improvement in both posture and pressure distribution are reported when using the orthosis. The benefits of the orthosis and its application to other disabled people are discussed.
Playsuit Sling: An Alternative to a Developmental Crawler
Authors: Yuen Keung
Published: September 2010

An adapted playsuit sling was designed to assist the therapist to facilitate developmentally disabled children in reciprocal creeping and, at the same time, eliminate some unnecessary physical stresses imposed on the therapist. Possible adaptations to the playsuit sling are discussed, as well as precautions in its use.
Ethnic Clients in Diversional Therapy Programmes
Authors: Westbrook Mary T. , Skropeta C. Margaret , Legge Varoe
Published: September 2010

A questionnaire survey of diversional therapists was conducted to examine their experiences with ethnic clients in diversional therapy programmes. The average therapist worked with the frail aged in a nursing home and had four ethnic clients, only one of whom spoke fluent English. Therapists experienced problems in communicating with clients and accommodating their needs. Ratings of ethnic clients' reactions to diversional therapy programmes indicated that they participated in and enjoyed 29 of 32 activities less than did other clients. While many therapists had introduced special activities and innovations, a tendency to deny the existence of ethnic clients' special needs could impede the development of ethnically sensitive diversional therapy programmes.
Non‐compliance with Occupational Therapy Outpatient Attendance: A Quality Assurance Study
Authors: Gleeson Robyn , Chant Anne‐Marie , Cusick Anne , Dickson Neroli , Hodgers Elaine
Published: September 2010

Therapists working in the outpatients service of a general hospital observed a problem regarding patient attendance at agreed appointment times. Valuable staff time was “lost” waiting for patients who failed to keep appointments. To develop policies and procedures about management of patient non‐attendance a quality assurance study was conducted. This identified the extent of non‐attendance, the reasons for this and the impact on the department. Of 192 appointments, 25 were non‐attendances. Non‐attendance was found to be a problem which occurred regularly, had an effect on staff job satisfaction and was a considerable financial cost to the department in terms of direct patient service delivery time lost. A number of methodological problems in the study are identified which limit the conclusions which can be drawn. These relate to data collection regarding the total outpatient service population which meant comparisons between attenders and non‐attenders could not be made. On the basis of the information gained from the literature and the study a number of recommendations were made to decrease non‐attendance. These include environmental changes to department waiting areas, the introduction of appointment reminder systems, waiting time policies, appointment negotiation procedures and a new protocol for dealing with non‐attendance in the department.
Effects of Group Treatment on Interpersonal Behaviour of Elderly Clients with Dementia
Authors: Gee Helen
Published: September 2010

This pilot study was undertaken to investigate the number of interpersonal contact behaviours made by clients involved in a group specifically set up to encourage this. It was found that contact behaviour improved statistically significantly over the duration of the study, while there was no significant change in withdrawal behaviours exhibited.
Career Attitudes and Work Values of Groups of Occupational Therapy Students: A Replication and an Extension
Authors: Delin Catherine
Published: September 2010

A career attitude questionnaire similar to that used by Nordholm and Westbrook (1980) at Cumberland College of Health Science, New South Wales, was constructed for use by second year South Australian Occupational Therapy students as part of their research course. Students at all four year levels of the course completed the questionnaire, and comparisons were made across the years, and between the genders. Contrary to expectation, no differences were found in the career attitudes and work values of students at the different year levels, or of males and females. Comparisons were also made between the attitudes and values of the South Australian sample and those of the eastern sample. Some differences but considerable similarities between the geographical groups were found. A factor analysis of the work value items of the questionnaire showed a very clear structure: it is suggested that further research on this scale is warranted. The value of using a group project as a teaching strategy in research courses is emphasised.
Records: One Measure of Occupational Therapy Practice in the Field of Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Anderson Barbara , Llewellyn Gwynnyth , Bell Janet
Published: September 2010

This study examined whether occupational therapists working with adult clients with developmental disabilities in New South Wales maintain client records and whether such records can be used for research purposes. A records audit was conducted to examine record format, nature of assessment, evidence of goals and client consultation in goal setting and whether legal requirements were met in the records. The findings demonstrate that New South Wales occupational therapists working in developmental disabilities maintain records for their adult clients; however, record formats vary, goals are notably absent and generally there is inconsistent data collection. The implications of these findings for using occupational therapists' records for evaluation and research are discussed.
Coping with a Second Disability: Implications of the Late Effects of Poliomyelitis for Occupational Therapists
Authors: Westbrook Mary T. , McDowell Lynette
Published: September 2010

The long term effects of many physical disabilities have only recently begun to be appreciated. For people who have lived for years with what they thought to be stable conditions, the onset of secondary disabilities may be associated with considerable problems and distress. A questionnaire survey of 324 people with poliomyelitis revealed the occurrence of late effects in 94% of respondents. The majority reported increased weakness, pain and fatigue, problems in carrying out daily living activities and difficulties in obtaining appropriate health care. Although occupational therapists were less likely to be consulted than other professionals, they received one of the highest satisfaction ratings from clients. Discussion of case studies indicates ways in which occupational therapists can provide symptom relief and enable clients to maintain valued roles. As the survival rates of people with disabilities increase there is a need for greater awareness of, and research into, the late effects of disability.
Hotel Lounge Chairs: Suitability for the Elderly Tourist
Authors: Fricke Janet , Worrell Diane
Published: September 2010

Hotel lounge chairs in 12 Melbourne hotels were measured by occupational therapy students and 48 elderly people were assessed using these chairs. The chairs were scored on the extent to which their measurements met recommended standards and specifications (Harris and Mayfield, 1988) and these scores were then related to the ease of use and comfort as reported by the subjects. The results indicated that none of the 20 chairs measured met the recommended design criteria of Harris and Mayfield. Good design correlated strongly with reported ease of use. The survey gave occupational therapy students an insight into design problems through their involvement in this research project.
A Role for Occupational Therapy in Crisis Intervention and Prevention
Authors: Miller Vivienne , Robertson Sadie
Published: September 2010

This paper presents some of the basic concepts in crisis intervention theory and crisis prevention and their application to current service provision in mental health. Occupational therapists already possess many of the skills required to intervene in a crisis. The authors present these concepts with a view to encouraging therapists to regard crisis work as a legitimate area of practice in mental health care. The “buck stops here” level of responsibility is a new challenge for occupational therapists.
Custom‐Designed Stroller Inserts for Young Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Inglis Sally , Gibbett Kerry
Published: September 2010

Therapists treating children with cerebral palsy assess and provide equipment for their daily positioning regimes. As many of these children demonstrate delayed walking abilities, their parents often rely on the stroller as the main means of transporting their child for several years. A suitable seating system in the stroller that promotes a posture which complements the achievements gained in therapy is required. This article presents a framework for decision‐making in prescribing seating solutions and describes the manufacture of customised foam and plywood stroller inserts.
A Study on Developments in Occupational Therapy Undergraduate Education in WA: 1961–1991
Authors: Millsteed Jeannine
Published: September 2010

1991 marks thirty years of formal education in occupational therapy in Western Australia. From its humble origins in an old hotel, the undergraduate occupational therapy programme in Western Australia has evolved from one which had a very strong vocational focus, was largely steeped in medical traditions and which had an emphasis on teaching technical skills, to one which is more academic and outward looking in its orientation. However, as we enter the 1990s undergraduate education in occupational therapy must face the challenges associated with the National Training Board's move to competency‐based standards and assessment in the workplace. This study of historical material compares the three major stages of development in the thirty years of undergraduate education in occupational therapy in Western Australia. Reflection on these developments may guide future directions in undergraduate education and result in outcomes which will equip occupational therapists for leadership in the provision of health services.
Fifty Years of Occupational Therapy at Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital
Authors: Macdonald Margaret , Rush Margaret , Parras George , Goodwin Glenis , Lovell Robin
Published: September 2010

This paper has been written to acknowledge the significant contribution of the Occupational Therapy Department at the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital in Victoria to the history of Occupational Therapy in Australia. Established in 1941, the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital had one of the first Occupational Therapy Departments in Australia and pioneered many new trends in occupational therapy. Information for this article was collected between 1989 and 1991 by questionnaires sent to former staff members, taped interviews with key people and the recollections of current staff. Together they provide valuable insight into the first fifty years of occupational therapy from the perspective of Australia's veteran community.
Consumer Participation in Planning Health Promotion Programmes: A Case Study Using the Nominal Group Technique
Authors: Twible Robyn L.
Published: September 2010

Current health policy in Australia requires consumer involvement in planning health promotion programmes. The literature highlights the need to involve the elderly in planning health promotion programmes. It is only by understanding their concerns, attitudes, beliefs and values that appropriate strategies can be developed. This paper describes how the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) was used to plan a health promotion programme's content and strategies for a Veterans' Quality of Life Project. The NGT group meetings yielded a wealth of easily collected, rank ordered, qualitative data from over 400 consumers. Additionally, consumer responses revealed issues not raised in the literature and, provided the foundation for continued participation and enthusiasm in subsequent health promotion activities. NGT proved to be an effective and efficient way to involve elderly consumers in planning health promotion programmes.
Job Satisfaction Issues: The Focus Group Approach
Authors: de Wesley Alison Burley , Clemson Lindy
Published: September 2010

This qualitative study investigated job satisfaction in an Australian occupational therapy department using the focus group method. Herzberg's model (Herzberg, 1974) of motivator and hygiene factors provided the context for group discussion. Discussion group transcripts were analysed using methods described by Krueger (1988) and supported by Miles and Huberman (1990). Overall, job satisfaction was found to be positive, although working conditions posed some challenges. The study highlights the importance of identifying areas of both satisfaction and dissatisfaction in the workplace. It is recommended that staff satisfaction be regularly reviewed.
Prediction of Compliance with a Post‐Myocardial Infarction Home‐Based Walking Programme
Authors: Tooth Leigh , McKenna Kryss , Colquhoun David
Published: September 2010

This study was undertaken to determine the personal, medical and psychological factors which may predict non‐compliance with a home‐based, moderate‐intensity walking programme in post‐infarction patients. Thirty male patients, aged 32 to 75 years, underwent a six week walking programme. After an introductory interview, the patients completed a self‐administered questionnaire and maintained an exercise log book, indicating exercise frequency and duration for a six week period. Compliance was expressed as percentage duration and percentage frequency for the total six week period. The results showed an 86 per cent compliance rate to the exercise programme. It was concluded that such training is a valuable and economical strategy in cardiac rehabilitation programmes.
Torque Strength Measurements: An Examination of Interchangeability of Results in Two Evaluation Devices
Authors: Innes Ev , Hargans Karen , Turner Rosalie , Tse Donna
Published: September 2010

The purpose of this study was to examine the interchangeability of results in two evaluation devices, the Force Assessment Systems Technology (FAST) and Work Assessment Systems Technology (WEST) 4A, which both measure torque generation. Thirty volunteers were tested using standard positioning and testing protocols. Results differed significantly between the two instruments for both supination (t=8.758, df=29, p<.001) and pronation (t=6.165, df=29, p<.001). Correlations between the FAST and the WEST 4A were significant (Supination: r=0.573, p<.01; Pronation: r=0.632, p<.01). Coefficients of variation were also examined and found to be significantly different (Supination: t=2.976, df=29, p<.01; Pronation: t=2.522, df=29, p<.02). These findings indicate that results from these two instruments are not interchangeable and the normative data presented in the manuals is questioned. On the basis of these findings, it is suggested that if clinicians wish to compare a client's result with normative data, this should be established for each instrument separately.
Paediatric Occupational Therapy Services in Queensland Part 2: Methods and Patterns
Authors: Springfield Elizabeth , Rodger Sylvia , Maas Frikkie
Published: September 2010

A survey of paediatric occupational therapy services throughout the state of Queensland was undertaken and demographic aspects and patterns of service delivery presented in Rodger, Springfield and Maas (1993). This paper presents models of service delivery, caseload size, and patterns of time use. Results indicate that a range of factors influence caseload size. Patterns of time use were consistent with those documented in the American and British literature, with approximately 50% of time spent in client contact. A range of models of service delivery exists, with the majority of respondents using more than one model. Implications of the survey findings for paediatric service delivery in Queensland are discussed.
Some Perspectives on Cross‐Cultural Rehabilitation with Remote Area Aboriginal People
Authors: Glynn Robyn
Published: September 2010

Working in remote Aboriginal communities in the Darwin Rural District of the Northern Territory is a challenging field of occupational therapy. This paper describes some of the models adopted to address the needs of Aborigines in these communities and some cross‐cultural considerations required to provide a relevant rehabilitation programme.
The Bush Wheelchair: A Manual Transporter for Adults Living in Rural Communities
Authors: Land Ann
Published: September 2010

A four year project to design and develop an appropriate mobility device for people with disabilities living in rural communities in the Northern Territory has resulted in the successful field testing of a manual transporter. This device, designed and developed by the Seating Equipment And Technical Service (SEAT) for the Northern Territory, is based on a rickshaw style configuration to enable an attendant to pull the occupant over rough terrain more easily than using a standard manual wheelchair. This Bush Wheelchair is more robust and has fewer moving parts. It therefore requires less maintenance and is a more appropriate form of transporting people with disabilities within their communities. The design is discussed.
The trunk/spine complex and wheelchair seating for children: A literature review
Authors: Burgman Imelda
Published: September 2010

Wheelchair seating should provide children with disabilities with an external support system from which to gain postural and movement control. The importance of correct pelvic positioning has been extensively discussed in the literature in relation to maintaining correct spinal curvature and muscle balance, and providing a stable base of support for the trunk and upper body. The effects of positioning on the trunk/spine complex has been quantitatively investigated in relation to non‐disabled adults, but little literature is available in relation to children. Of significance to occupational therapists is the effect of trunk/spine positioning on the developing child with a disability. This paper reviews the quantitative literature on seating and assesses the application of research on adults with and without a disability to the child with a disability. Awareness of potential physical stress areas —muscles, ligaments and joints, enables informed practice by occupational therapists. However, it is evident that there are constraints in relating information from research with adults to children with disabilities.