bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Standardised Test of Hand Function
Authors: Fraser Carole , de Fusco Julia
Published: April 2015

The aim of the project was to find the average time taken by a sample of the normal populaton to perform bilateral and unilateral tasks ofhand function against which the performance ofpatients could be compared. The test was administered to five males and five females in each of five age groups. A statistical analysis of results is briefly reported and the means for each ofthe five sub-tasks are presented.
Toward a Wider View
Authors: Agag
Published: April 2015

“Out upon Merry Christmas! What's Christmas-time to you but a time for paying bills without money; a time for finding yourself a year older, and not an hour richer; a time for balancing your books and having every item in ‘em through a round dozen months presented dead against you? Bah! and Humbug!”
Rehabilitation Studies Unit at the University of Edinburgh
Authors: Aitken Cairns
Published: April 2015

The author was appointed to the Chair of Rehabilitation Studies in the University of Edinburgh in 1974. Since then specialised services in Rehabilitation Medicine have been introduced for locomotor, cardiac, and neurological disorders. These are based on multiprofessional teams, practising the bio-psycho-social approach to tackle the patient's problems. Research studies are under way on some aspects of these clinical problems, and on evaluation of rehabilitation services and of equipment for disability. Four Occupational Therapists have had a key role in measurements of outcome, particularly related to the needs of wheelchair users, the mobility of those eligible for Mobility Allowance, morbidity from hand injury, and the role of specialised equipment in assisting severely disabled people to live in the community. Advice and teaching is based on the knowledge and experience gained from those clinical and research studies.
Aspects of Occupational Therapy with Handicapped Children in the Community
Authors: Hong Chia Swee , Cockerill Helen
Published: April 2015

This article describes the work of two Occupational Therapists in North London. They see handicapped children of various ages and their families at homes, nurseries, schools and at a Toy Library. They describe briefly their assessments and treatment methods and illustrate some of the remedial programmes in the appendices. They also show how they work with other disciplines and parents.
Community Living Skills Training
Authors: Durham Tessa M.
Published: April 2015

The Community Living Skills Course described in this paper was established as a means of broadening the scope of the rehabilitation programme offered to pre-discharge psychiatric patients, with the aim of more adequately preparing them for life outside hospital. The course sought to teach specific practical skills and to provide information about community services and resources.

After the course had been in operation for two years, an attempt was made to validate the content of the course by evaluating its relevance to patients already living in the community. Accordingly, structured interviews of 26 day care patients were conducted. The data obtained was used to modify and improve the existing course so that it would better meet patients needs. At the same time, an initial assessment of the training needs of long-term patients living in the community was made, and a need for continuing support and assistance with practical problems emerged.
An Approach to Improving Handwriting by Motor and Tactile Methods
Authors: Newman Jill
Published: April 2015

The Learning Difficulties Clinic at St. Thomas' Hospital comprises the Physician in Charge, Remedial Teacher, Occupational Therapist, Speech Therapist, Secretary/Receptionist, and sometimes Eurhythmy Therapist.

Children (and occasionally adults) are normally referred by medical, educational and parental sources.

The Occupational Therapist assesses the individual's manual dexterity, hand/eye coordination and a sample of handwriting (dictated). The Graham & Kendal “Memory for Design” test and “Visual Sequential Memory” subtest from the Illinois Test for Psycholinguistic Abilities are also administered by the Occupational Therapist, but these could also be carried out by any other team member since they are not a definitive Occupational Therapy speciality.

When each member of the team has assessed the individual, they meet for a case conference when assessment results are discussed and recommendations are made. At this stage, the individual is referred for Occupational Therapy sessions if handwriting is poor, usually due to neuro-motor or perceptual difficulties. A programme of pre-writing and writing exercises was devised in an attempt to improve the quality of handwriting in a small group of school children. The results suggest that there was significant improvement in mechanical handwriting ability as a result of therapy.
‘The Wrist Joint’ in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Agnew Patricia J.
Published: April 2015

Hand function is dependent upon the stability of the wrist joint1. The wrist joint is thus a key joint of the upper limb, and must be pain-free for normal hand function and adequate strength of grip2. Wrist involvement is frequently characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis, with tenosinovitis of the wrist extensor tendons evident in the early stages of the disease3. Severe hand deformities with ulnar deviation of the metacarpo-phalangeal joints, subluxation of the carpals and ruptured tendons, are the result of extensive wrist disease.

Rheumatoid disease of the wrist and its affect on progressive hand deformity has been the subject of numerous investigations4,5,6,7,8. The purpose of this paper is to review the literature on the rheumatoid wrist in view of the current occupational therapy practice of splinting the affected wrists for functional positioning and the prevention of further wrist deterioration.
Occupational Therapy in Maltese Hospitals
Authors: Busuttil Joseph
Published: April 2015

Malta (population over 290,000) has three main hospitals: a general hospital (800 beds), a geriatric complex (1,000 beds), and a psychiatric hospital (750 beds). Gozo (population over 23,000) has a general hospital (200 beds) and a psychiatric hospital (80 beds).
A Design for Seating Posturally Handicapped Children — The Action Chair
Authors: Dawson Rose , Huddleston Sally
Published: April 2015

Severely posturally handicapped children require laboratory fitted body support systems adaptable enough to cater for the child's feeding, working, playing and relaxing activities but laboratory designed seats have tended to be clinical rather than domestic, expensive and not sufficiently adaptable. This paper describes: 1. the development of a fitting and adjustment system compatible with a wide range of needs. 2. Methods to allow fining and adjustment to be easily and safely operated. 3. The chair should be of acceptable domestic quality.
A Wheelchair Transfer Board
Authors: Aaron Angus E.
Published: April 2015

A transfer board is used for transferring a patient from wheelchair to bed, commode or toilet, bath or chair — and vice versa. The aim is to make patients more independent, to improve concentration and strengthen upper limbs. It also eases the physical work of staff.
Referrals to an Occupational Therapy Division: A Descriptive Survey
Authors: Smart Wendy , Vaughan M. , Hunt Sonya
Published: April 2015

Occupational Therapy Departments are concerned with improving the quality of life for disabled people of varying ages and the increasing number of frail elderly people. Increasing emphasis is being placed upon continuing life in the community and this calls for good communications between O.T. Departments and social services although there is no administrative link between them. For an O.T. Department to fulfill its role effectively there is a need for good and reliable data for planning and evaluation. This survey examines the problem in some detail.
An Introduction to Behaviour Therapy Part One
Authors: Sackett Jo , Fitzgerald James
Published: April 2015

One therapy in which both the occupational therapist and the psychiatric nurse can be directly involved together is behaviour therapy. They may not deal with all aspects of this, and will probably find that it is narrowed down to specific techniques such as dealing with phobic anxieties or supportive training in social skills. It is important, however, for those carrying out such supportive work to have some knowledge and understanding of the scope of behaviour therapy. This article aims to explain some of the terms used in this form of therapy, to look at a few of the techniques and to offer suggestions and ideas for practical application.
Internal Assessment with External Moderation of a Course in Occupational Therapy
Authors: Grellier Diana
Published: April 2015

This article describes the way internal assessment with external moderation has been put into practice at a School of Occupational Therapy, and the particular problems involved in being the first to do so. It explains the role of the Validation Board and the moderators, how this School's submission was prepared, presented and approved, and what the effect has been on the students, School staff, and clinical supervisors. The author believes that although more work is necessary by all concerned in the initial stages, there is greater satisfaction for staff and benefit to the student through self-directed learning and a fairer system of assessment.
Psychodrama
Authors: Ruscombe-King Gillie
Published: April 2015

The author has worked at the Ley Clinic, the Oxfordshire Regional Alcoholism Unit, for the past 3 years, and has had training in psychodrama and experience with group analytic work at the Institute of Group Analysis. In this article, she discusses how psychodrama can promote personal change in patients experiencing alcohol dependence and its consequent social and psychological disturbances. She believes that the potential of personal creativity lies within all people, is a basic ingredient of the rehabilitative process, and belongs to every aspect of occupational therapy. She harnesses the creative process through psychodrama.
Occupational Therapy in the Market Place
Authors: Hemsworth Marian
Published: April 2015

Occupational Therapy and the marketing of equipment for disabled people may seem unlikely allies. Yet each has something to contribute to the other, and their skills can be mutually enriching. Certainly this has been the experience of the company for which I work, whose range of products includes stairlifts and homelifts for disabled people. One definition of marketing speaks of ‘identifying and satisfying consumer needs’, and there is truth in the maxim that a satisfied customer is the best advertisement for any manufacturer. In pursuit of a policy of enlightened self-interest, my company about eighteen months ago, advertised for an occupational therapist to fill a vacancy in the technical sales force. An unusual step to take perhaps but it could be reasoned that an OT would be able to help towards ensuring that every stairlift sold would really be what the client needed.
Present Trends in Occupational Therapy Practice
Authors: Bayliss D E , Goble R E A , King D J , Mendez M A
Published: April 2015

A Working Party considering ‘Competence to Practise’ circulated a questionnaire in March 1982 to all district occupational therapists and equivalent grades in social service departments in the UK to survey current practice in occupational therapy. The results indicate that a wide variety of skills are required by basic grade occupational therapists to deal with a relatively small range of clinical problems for a large number of patients/clients in the middle and older age groups. The information will act as a baseline for further work to proceed to determine what relevant knowledge, skills and attitudes are required of basic grade occupational therapists in order to practise competently.
Management of the Elderly in the Community
Authors: Selman Mirline , Fogarty Monica
Published: April 2015

This article describes the work of the Peripatetic Geriatric Team (PGT) at Hackney Hospital. The team, composed of a medical doctor, an occupational therapist and a physiotherapist, works as an extension of the Geriatric Department at Hackney Hospital. It provides a community service to the elderly population (those of pensionable age and over) within the Borough of Hackney itself and the City of London. The article includes details of the background to the development of the team and its aims. The varied work of the team is also described together with relevant case studies. Some personal recommendations are made by the writers regarding points to be borne in mind when embarking on a new ‘venture’ such as this.
A Comparative Study of Referrals and the Work Undertaken at Two Geriatric Day Hospitals
Authors: Cousins Ann , Hale Sally
Published: April 2015

Day hospitals have, without question, become a necessary and important part of the geriatric service. The object of this study was to ascertain whether initial referral reasons matched the reasons for attendance at a day hospital. The criteria for referral fell into six categories as defined by Brocklehurst.1 Data were collected from two day hospitals, one in a rural area and one within a city. The information was gained by use of a questionnaire given to a random sample of 30 patients from each day hospital during one specified week. Results showed that all patients fell within the criteria of classification, the majority falling into the following three categories: rehabilitation; rehabilitation, medical investigations and procedures; and social support. On close comparison of the results from both day hospitals the relative needs of the patients attending and the use of basic resources available were vastly different. Without a more detailed examination of the background reasons behind this it would be impossible to ascertain why the differences in the two day hospitals proved to be so great. This would indeed provide an interesting and natural subsequent study.
Occupational Therapy is Effective for Chronic Schizophrenic Day-Patients
Authors: Campbell Ann , McCreadie Robin G.
Published: April 2015

In a controlled study of chronic schizophrenic day-patients, brief but intensive occupational therapy was found to be effective in improving patients' skills in such areas as work in the kitchen, shopping and budgeting, laundry and clothes care, and general household duties. The findings suggest occupational therapy has an important part to play in the continuing rehabilitation of schizophrenics in the community.
Head-Injury Rehabilitation: Does the Team Think?
Authors: Johnson David A
Published: April 2015

The severely head-injured patient presents with a multiplicity of problems for rehabilitation. Traditionally, these are dealt with in isolation, by professionals who may be unaware of others' input to the patient. It is suggested that by adopting a more comprehensive approach to rehabilitation, and by increasing communication and coordination between professionals, improved treatment efficacy is possible outwith purpose-built units.
Problems Reported by Parents of Boys Suffering from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Firth Melinda A , Wilkinson Elizabeth J
Published: April 2015

Sixty-nine parents of boys suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy were interviewed at home using a guided interview schedule. One of the areas investigated was problems faced by parents of sufferers. Sixty-two per cent of the reported problems were ‘practical problems’ such as lifting, eating and toileting problems; 23 per cent were ‘service problems’ such as not knowing who to turn to when a problem arises or difficulties in obtaining aids; and 15 per cent were ‘emotional problems’ such as depression and isolation. Forty-seven per cent of families interviewed had experienced problems with lifting their sons and over a quarter of the families mentioned problems regarding adaptations to housing. It is suggested that a wide range of practical and service problems put further pressure on parents who are already under considerable emotional pressure. Many of these problems could be avoided or reduced by better service provision including expert advice.
People with Epilepsy Achieving Independence: A Study of a Rehabilitation Hostel
Authors: Britten Hilary , Britten Nicky , Fenwick Peter
Published: April 2015

This paper reports a follow-up study of 35 ex-residents of a rehabilitation hostel for patients with epilepsy. The areas investigated include living circumstances, daily activity, practical skills, relationships with other people and medical condition. The results suggest that subjects achieved greater independence in their daily activity and living circumstances and improved relationships with other people, but no overall improvement in their practical skills. Some factors associated with improved outcomes are identified.
The Background to an In-Service Diploma Course
Authors: Wallis Mavis A
Published: April 2015

This article provides some of the background to a Diploma course in Essex, which has pioneered qualification through in-service training. It discusses the essential ingredients of such a course, including the roles of the personnel involved, the type of higher education institution required, and means of financing the scheme. The course design is set out in detail and the different elements explained. The article concludes that, despite the enormity of the task, there would appear to be a need for similar courses in other parts of the country.
A Multidisciplinary Approach in Psychotherapy
Authors: McHugh S , Knowles B
Published: April 2015

The authors have attempted to give an overall picture of their day hospital, mentioning briefly the techniques used and how different disciplines work together to achieve a common aim — to allow group members to explore difficulties in their lives within a supportive environment. This is based on a psychotherapeutic approach. ‘Psychotherapy is primarily concerned with communication, usually verbal, but it must be accepted that nonverbal communications can be of the greatest importance in this form of treatment. It is common knowledge that talking about one's problems can be helpful; to unload on somebody else, to get things off one's chest brings a certain degree of relief. In its most dramatic form catharsis, which means literally purging, occurs when hitherto repressed memories flood into consciousness accompanied by the discharge of the emotion attached to the repressed memory or experience.’
Survey of Major Adaptations
Authors: Edgington Andrew
Published: April 2015

This article describes a survey of a sample of 50 adaptations undertaken by a local authority social services department. The method whereby the adaptations were sampled and investigated is described. Aspects such as the reason for provision, how the client coped before, what the main effects were and what possible improvements were required are considered. The survey showed that in 45 of the 50 cases examined the adaptation was being used frequently and appropriately. In 19 cases, however, possible improvements were identified.
Special Education Needs of Handicapped Children
Authors: Grove Elizabeth
Published: April 2015

The author presents a model for therapy using various developmental theories to explain the complex play patterns which the child presents in play therapy sessions. She outlines how a knowledge of these theories, in relation to children's play in therapy, provides the therapist with a technique, which initially gives a baseline of the child's emotional state and subsequently, as therapy proceeds, provides a measure of progress. She illustrates how relationship therapy and nondirective play, in the context of the theories, provide the therapeutic experience which the child needs. The case illustrating this paper is entirely fictitious, using only actual isolated incidents from the author's recordings of sessions with many children. These incidents have been edited to disguise all identifying features of the children concerned.
A Feeding Workshop for the Mentally Handicapped
Authors: Candlish Erica
Published: April 2015

The author has, for the past 2 years, been working in a ‘dual post’ capacity, teaching at St Loye's and working with the mentally handicapped at Langdon Hospital, Dawlish. One of the common problems arising with this group of patients is that of feeding. She became involved in the organizing of a feeding workshop, established to identify some of these problems and to seek solutions to them. It is hoped that the article may prove useful to therapists working in this field, who would like access to information on feeding or who would be interested in organizing such workshops at their own hospital.
The Role of the Occupational Therapist in a Psychotherapeutic Setting
Authors: Robertson Elaine
Published: April 2015

The main content of the paper will examine the role of the occupational therapist in providing a balanced programme within the treatment setting of a group psychotherapy unit and to aid the psychodynamic process involved. The paper is based on a seminar given by the author at the Scuola Superiore di Servizio Sociale, Venice.
A Close Look at the Contact between Our Regular Clients and Staff in Small and Large Play Sessions
Authors: Hong Chia Swee
Published: April 2015

With the increasing commitment of research in occupational therapy, all occupational therapists should endeavour to carry out objective and practical studies, however simple and basic, into various aspects of their work. This article describes a simple study which attempts to measure the amount of resident/staff contact. The result confirmed our informal observations that there is a high percentage of contact between the residents and the staff if the sessions are structured and the staff know what to do with each resident.
Examination Technique
Authors: Candlish Erica
Published: April 2015

The author, who has recent experience of examinations, presents some helpful hints for students who have to sit essay-style examinations. She not only gives directions for the examination itself, but also makes suggestions as to how the candidate might prepare for the event.
Changing the Occupational Therapy Curriculum
Authors: Busuttil Joseph
Published: April 2015

Modern trends and techniques in the field of education indicate the need for an overhaul in many aspects of teaching and learning approaches. The occupational therapy course is not immune to such developments, and the number of efforts within the profession shows that there is a growing awareness of current educational changes. There has been criticism in the past that the occupational therapy course is crammed with subjects and that students are often expected to display a factual knowledge of various topics. Some claim that there is too little importance attached to the learning process. This article looks at some present thoughts in the educational sector, and tries to apply them to the occupational therapy curriculum.
Children's Drawings as a Means of Nonverbal Communication: An Introduction
Authors: Kelly Greg
Published: April 2015

Children's drawings have often been used by adults to help them to communicate with children who, for whatever reason, do not express themselves verbally. Sometimes this seems to be the only method which appears to be effective. However, examination of the literature suggests that adults' interpretation of the drawings made by children may not be as reliable as it could be. The concept of children's drawings as a means of nonverbal communication is examined and suggestions are made to enable adults to use the medium of drawing more effectively in order to understand a child's graphic language.
The Microcomputer: Managerial Aid and Therapy Tool for the Profession
Authors: Clark Yolande U
Published: April 2015

The aim of this article is to examine the dual function of the microcomputer in occupational therapy, firstly as a management aid and, secondly, as a therapy tool. Factors pertinent to the choice of a microcomputer as well as problems of introducing change are examined.
Memory Function following Traumatic Head Injury
Authors: Strong Jenny
Published: April 2015

The literature of the past 10 years pertaining to the nature of memory impairment, the time/course of recovery of memory function, and the types of retraining technique was reviewed. Analysis revealed many discrepancies and unsolved issues in these areas fundamental to therapeutic intervention. Directions for future research were made in the light of these findings.
The Role of the Occupational Therapist in the Psychogeriatric Unit at New Cross Hospital
Authors: Taylor Madeline
Published: April 2015

The aim of this paper is to describe the role of the occupational therapist in a psychogeriatric unit and to show the importance of this area of work. The assessment of activities of daily living and group activities is discussed, as is assessment in home visits. The author concludes that such comprehensive occupational therapy assessments are required to decide on the future needs of the patients.
An Evaluation of Occupational Therapy Helpers as Behaviour Therapists
Authors: Milne Derek , Mason Helen
Published: April 2015

The role of paraprofessionals as behaviour therapists has been the subject of considerable debate and controversy. One of the major issues is whether such groups as occupational therapy helpers can work efficiently and effectively as behaviour therapists. This article illustrates how helpers can successfully apply behavioural techniques with psychiatric rehabilitation patients, and provides evidence on their effectiveness and efficiency. Particular emphasis is given to ways of evaluating the therapists' skill in behaviour therapy. This provides a firm base from which to discuss the advantages of having paraprofessional therapists.
Fashion Services for the Disabled
Authors: Ingram Elizabeth
Published: April 2015

‘Fashion Services for the Disabled’ aims to study the clothing problems of disabled people and to find various means of solving these problems. This article shows how the project began, how it operates today and its hopes and plans for the future.
The Use of Appliances in the Treatment of Severe Self-Injurious Behaviour
Authors: Spain Bernie , Hart Sally Ann , Corbett John
Published: April 2015

While protective appliances may be of considerable value in the management and treatment of self-injurious behaviour, they should be used with caution and only as part of a general behavioural programme. This article describes a variety of equipment which has been found to be useful with individuals who self-injure, in preventing tissue damage during treatment programmes designed to reduce their self-injurious behaviour.
Models of Practice for Occupational Therapy
Authors: Young Mary
Published: April 2015

This article presents a model of practice for occupational therapy, derived from the adapting quality of human beings, and suggests ways in which it may be applied in clinical settings. The value of a model is that it identifies the unique contribution of a profession.
The Management of Memory Disorders
Authors: Roberts Carole
Published: April 2015

This article discusses the range of methods that are available to help patients with memory problems, including both external and internal strategies. Learning these strategies is difficult, so care must be taken in choosing a suitable method for each patient. Memory games can then be used to teach patients how to use the most effective strategy to improve memory function.
Community Occupational Therapy and the General Practitioner
Authors: Busuttil Joseph
Published: April 2015

In a research project* on the awareness of community facilities for the disabled, 42 trainee and trainer general practitioners were asked in a questionnaire how they viewed and utilized domiciliary occupational therapy. The results showed that 55% considered the profession important and used it frequently; 12% used it with mixed feelings; and 24% did not make use of the service, even though it was available. The role of the therapist was seen mainly as assessing for aids and equipment and for home adaptations, and assisting the disabled to overcome their problems in the activities of daily living.
The Use of the BBC Microcomputer with Psychiatric Conditions
Authors: Roberts Mary
Published: April 2015

In 1983 a scheme was run by the DHSS and the DTI whereby BBC microcomputers were placed in occupational therapy departments around Britain to see whether they would be a useful therapeutic tool. As part of this project Battle Hospital, Reading, was given two computers, one of which was intended to be peripatetic in the West Berkshire District. From December 1983 to date one of the computers has been used at Fair Mile Hospital, Wallingford. This is a resulting report to show the possible uses of the BBC computer in psychiatry. It describes how the computer has helped to treat specific psychiatric symptoms and illustrates this with case observations to show the responses of various patients.
Survey of the Hobbies and Transport of Patients with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Manson L , Caird F I
Published: April 2015

A semistructured interview was used in 74 cases of Parkinson's disease to assess the impact of the disease on the hobbies and transport of the patients, who were grouped according to degree of disability. Sedentary and passive activities within the house (for example, watching television) were well preserved as disability advanced, but this was not the case with all other activities, such as those involving manual dexterity, and those involving leaving the house. Decreasing mobility also affected the number and length of journeys on foot and those using all forms of transport. The findings are discussed in relation to the acquisition of hobbies and interests in early and middle life and their maintenance later.
A Scheme of Purpose-Built Housing for Physically Handicapped People
Authors: Stewart Fiona
Published: April 2015

This article describes the design and comments on the suitability of a scheme of purpose-built housing for wheelchair-bound clients in the district. For the purpose of this article, it was decided to concentrate on four of the ten families who were rehoused in order to present a representative cross-section.
Spontaneity and Creativity in the NHS: Starting a New Group — Psychodrama with Adult Day Patients
Authors: Beagan Debbie
Published: April 2015

This article gives a working definition of psychodrama, and an outline of a classic Moreno session. It then describes the setting up of two new groups, how they were run, and their evaluation from the group members' and staff's viewpoints.
Computer-Assisted Visual Feedback for New Hand and Arm Therapy Apparatus
Authors: Thompson S B N , Hards B , Bate R
Published: April 2015

There is an unfulfilled need for new hand and arm exercising apparatus in the rehabilitation departments of hospitals. This conclusion is reached from the lack of specific rehabilitation equipment currently available, and from the potential benefits offered by new designs that involve computer technology. A new type of apparatus has been designed which incorporates a program written in BBC BASIC and runs on a BBC microcomputer. This paper focuses on the program, which provides computer-assisted visual feedback to patients striving towards return of muscle strength and dexterity in the hand and arm.
The Effects of Pencil Barrel Shape and Pupil Barrel Preference on Hold or Grip in 8-Year-Old Pupils
Authors: Alston Jean
Published: April 2015

Twenty-five 8-year-old pupils wrote with pencils of two different barrel shapes for a 2-week period. At the end of the practice, pupil performance was assessed for pencil grip and writing control. The pupils were invited to give their own observations about the shapes of the two pencils and about their own choice of barrel. Results suggest that pupils are aware of the barrel shape most appropriate for their own writing performance and that pupil pencil grip, once established, may be difficult to change. Publishers should be invited to support research which could enable the establishment of criteria for the selection of an appropriate barrel for each pupil and perhaps, in general, for different characteristics and stages of pupil performance.
How Do other Professions View Occupational Therapy?
Authors: Smith Lindsey A
Published: April 2015

Early in 1985, a small project was undertaken to look at other professions' understanding of the role of the occupational therapist. This exercise highlighted the difficulty in establishing direct communication with the consultants and to a lesser degree the doctors, and emphasized the important role the ward sister has in the coordination of all aspects of patient care.
A Preliminary Study of Occupational Therapy Staff concerning the Use of Computers in Their Profession
Authors: Rugg Sue
Published: April 2015

Fifty-one occupational therapy staff, working in Salisbury Health District and the corresponding Wiltshire Social Services Area, participated in a study investigating their perception of occupational therapy, computers and computer use within the profession. Information was collected by interview and purpose-designed questionnaire upon 11 variables (personal, professional, and computer experience) of potential influence. Results indicated that most respondents perceived occupational therapy as having important and/or unique features, mainly with regard to patient care, and held a range of opinions about computers in general. The majority anticipated computer use in occupational therapy affecting the profession, generally in a beneficial direction, and cited a potential range of effects upon both patients and staff. The findings indicate a need for further investigation of occupational therapy staff's perception of computers, their use within the profession and their potential for influence, both in areas of current use and beyond.
Timed Functional Tests to Evaluate Sensory Recovery in Sutured Nerves
Authors: Marsh David , Smith Bozena
Published: April 2015

Various methods were used in an attempt to evaluate the degree of recovery of sensory function in divided and sutured median and ulnar nerves. The answer given by discrimination tests was that the results in all cases, except children, were uniformly bad. Timed functional tests, however, showed a spread of results across the cases which allowed statistical analysis of the major factors contributing to the outcome.
Moving on: An Outline of Group Work with Mentally Handicapped People Preparing to Move out of Hospital into a Group Home
Authors: McGowan Chandra
Published: April 2015

As mentally handicapped people move from hospital into the community, the need to deal with some of the emotional trauma this can involve becomes apparent. Developing and implementing a programme in which mentally handicapped people feel safe enough to express their feelings is essential. This article details such a programme: How it was developed, the aims, the content and structure of the sessions, and an evaluation.
A Review of the Assessment of People with a Mental Handicap: Some Important Considerations
Authors: Harvey Francis D
Published: April 2015

In this article some important issues regarding the assessment of people with a mental handicap are discussed. The nature and methods of assessment are considered, with particular emphasis on the advantages and disadvantages of using check lists. Given that a primary role of assessment is to identify skills deficits with a view to setting teaching targets, some ‘packages’ which provide a system for doing this are described.
The Therapeutic Use of Puppetry with Mentally Handicapped People
Authors: Page Fred
Published: April 2015

This article is based on a student project which investigated the therapeutic application of puppetry with mentally handicapped residents in South Ockendon Hospital: First to facilitate group interaction, secondly in sex education and thirdly in assertion training. The author records the reactions of the residents to the sessions and his evaluations of the sessions, with some pointers to future developments.
Improving the Communication Skills of Mentally Handicapped Adults
Authors: Allen Sarah , Willett Nicola
Published: April 2015

This article discusses the setting up and format of two very different communication groups run in the occupational therapy department at Turner Village Hospital for mentally handicapped adults. One of the groups emphasizes basic communication skills and the other emphasizes social communication skills.
Academic Gaming: Its Relevance in Classroom or Clinic
Authors: Candlish Erica J
Published: April 2015

This article outlines some of the games used in management, in the clinical workshop or as part of teaching strategy in the occupational therapy curriculum. It investigates the rationale, principles, design and advantages of using games as a teaching medium.
Management Training for Occupational Therapists Part 2: Examining the Options
Authors: Craik Christine
Published: April 2015

This is the second of two articles with the general title of ‘Management Training for Occupational Therapists’. Some of the management development and training options currently available are examined, the advantages and disadvantages are described and the relevance and accessibility to occupational therapists are discussed.
The Bec Enterprises Workscheme
Authors: Lloyd Karen
Published: April 2015

This article discusses the needs of long-term psychiatric patients returning to the community in West Lambeth, and why the occupational therapists at Tooting Bec Hospital developed the Bec Enterprises workscheme. It outlines the value of work from a psychological and physical standpoint, and the way in which four workshops have developed over the past 2 years.
Setting up an Occupational Therapy School and a Problem-Based Learning Occupational Therapy Course
Authors: Busuttil Joseph
Published: April 2015

The first occupational therapy course in Malta and Gozo started in November 1984. Planned on a problem-based learning approach, the course also involved the establishment of an occupational therapy school. This article looks back on the first year of operation and analyses some of the difficulties and achievements of the venture.
Brachial Plexus Lesions Part 2: Functional Splintage
Authors: Robinson C
Published: April 2015

Early amputation is no longer advised in the case of patients who have sustained a flail upper limb as a result of a brachial plexus lesion. Functional splintage in the form of the flail arm splint offers these patients as much as a prosthesis in the way of function and, at the same time, it allows them to retain their limb which they find more acceptable than a stump. The full flail arm splint is basically a skeleton of an upper limb prosthesis. It fits around the patient's arm and enables him to lock the elbow in one of five positions. By protracting his unaffected shoulder he can operate various terminal devices, thereby increasing his functional capabilities.
Long-Term Mental Health Disability: Going to the Consumers to Assess Need in the Community
Authors: Orford Judith
Published: April 2015

This research paper demonstrates the steps involved in setting up and carrying out a small descriptive survey of families where there is a person with a long-term mental health problem. The aim was to assess clients' needs for occupation and accommodation and to compare their responses with those of their carers. The results showed that clients themselves most frequently expressed a need for more social contact with others and that there was a significant measure of agreement with their carers in this area. Most carers but not clients, however, also expressed a need for clients to find new interests and a place of refuge when things get difficult at home.
Associate Members: A Life Worth Living
Authors: Parker Jean
Published: April 2015

Long-term care patients need a meaningful existence. It is our responsibility to ensure that time and energy are channelled into purposeful solutions for the disease of ‘time with nothing to do’. The author has taken up this challenge. Working as an activities organizer with the elderly for 11 years, she was determined never to take the role of a baby-sitter. The recreation unit has grown from its first eight guests to a purpose-built unit with approximately 1,500 attendances per month. A busy happy atmosphere now prevails where once there was a sea of dead faces. The choice to retain a sense of dignity and purpose should be available to all elderly patients who require long-term care.
The Role of the Occupational Therapist in a Community Mental Health Centre in Greece
Authors: Tsipra I , Voutsina P , Charitaki E , Tomaras V , Kapsali A , Madianos M
Published: April 2015

This article deals with a developing rehabilitation unit for mentally ill people, mostly chronic schizophrenic patients, which has been integrated into the Community Mental Health Centre of two Athenian boroughs. The unit includes a day care programme, a vocational training workshop and a social therapeutic club. All these programmes have been developed for the first time in Greece at a certain community level. The authors describe the rationale and the structure of the rehabilitation unit and the role of the occupational therapist.
HIPSIG: A Basis for Social Adjustment after Head Injury
Authors: Johnson David A , Newton Annette
Published: April 2015

Psychosocial adjustment is a major factor in morbidity from severe head injury, but there have been no reported attempts to remedy problems within this area. Detailed examination of 11 severely head-injured patients attending an occupational therapy day centre suggests that high social anxiety, poor social performance and low self-esteem are important contributory factors to the poor overall social adjustment. Using existing methods from social skills training, the authors tried to remedy those specific problem areas in social interaction. The group results after one year were not statistically significant, but the authors suggest that their approach may be a useful starting point from which occupational therapists can develop similar, more effective rehabilitative programmes.
The Occupational Therapist's Role in Legal Proceedings
Authors: Brangam G D H
Published: April 2015

In common with many other professions, occupational therapists are more likely than ever to be exposed to the risk of being involved in the legal process. It is essential, therefore, that occupational therapists have a good working knowledge of the role they may be required to play, should they be involved in proceedings brought either on behalf of the client or against the employing authority. This paper attempts to offer guidance on the main issues surrounding court appearances.
A Microcomputer-Feedback System for Improving Control of Incompletely Innervated Leg Muscle in Adult Cerebrovascular Accident Patients
Authors: Thompson S B N
Published: April 2015

A reliable feedback system is described that measures the level and frequency of nerve impulses from incompletely innervated leg muscle. A computer program, written in BBC BASIC and designed to run on a BBC microcomputer, provides the stroke patient with proprioception, in the form of visual feedback, so that an increased awareness and subsequent control of the affected leg is possible. A prognostic assessment procedure for stroke patients is suggested, based on evidence arising from the use of this system.
Joint Protection in Arthritis: Fact or Fiction?
Authors: Agnew P J
Published: April 2015

The aims of joint protection are to reduce pain and inflammation, and to preserve integrity of diseased joints by teaching patients to avoid stressing their joints. There is a widespread belief that deformities in rheumatoid arthritis result from dynamic forces acting on joints made unstable by disease and that deformities are preventable by means of joint preservation techniques. A review is presented arguing the case for and against the use of joint protection in three areas: Pain, inflammation and joint integrity. Patient compliance with education in joint protection is also discussed. An electromyographic pilot study records activity of extensor carpi ulnaris in five normal subjects performing tasks by a conventional method and using a joint protection method or an aid. It is proposed that the method be adopted for clinical and research studies to validate the usefulness of joint protection in rheumatoid arthritis.
Legal Aspects of Occupational Therapy: Part 1
Authors: Dimond Bridgit
Published: April 2015

The legal anxieties and uncertainties arising from their work are increasingly confronting occupational therapists. It is vital that they are aware of the legal implications. These three articles explore the main spheres of legal liability and professional accountability which arise.

The first article analyses the main provisions of the criminal law and the civil law. The types of offence with which an occupational therapist could be prosecuted are discussed together with a brief outline of the criminal law procedures. Similarly, the occupational therapist's liability before the civil courts is examined and the main elements, which anyone suing him or her would have to prove, are considered. The basis for the calculation of compensation is also examined.
Teaching Parents Toy Making: A Practical Guide to Early Intervention
Authors: Esdaile Susan , Sanderson Angela
Published: April 2015

The authors outline their rationale for conducting toy-making workshops, list their objectives and describe the methods used to structure them. The results of a pilot study and other outcomes of workshops are discussed, including the development of resource material to meet expressed community needs. In conclusion, the authors give a brief résumé of their current involvements in community education and research.
Video: Is it Too Technical for Occupational Therapists?
Authors: Fletcher Debbie , Callum Wendy
Published: April 2015

Video can be very daunting to the uninitiated. When the authors started using the equipment they had had no formal instruction, but had to rely heavily on the instruction manuals and basic photography skills. They therefore learnt by trial and error, but even so the end result has been presentable. This article aims to assist beginners in purchasing and using video equipment for the first time so that they can benefit from the authors' experiences.
‘Profession’ and ‘Professionalism’ and the Emerging Profession of Occupational Therapy: Part 2
Authors: Wallis Mavis A
Published: April 2015

In the second of two articles, the author examines the development of occupational therapy and the problems confronting members of a profession which is seeking autonomy within a complex State system.
I Sent a Letter to …
Authors: Nicol Margaret
Published: April 2015

A report of a comparative survey of the letters page of the British Journal of Occupational Therapy and three similar journals.
Rookwood Bead Seat
Authors: Bar C , Locke C , Salmon P
Published: April 2015

Therapists have been involved for many years in the assessment and provision of specialized seating for the physically handicapped child. This article describes a new system now available. With training, a therapist can assess and fit the Rookwood Bead Seat within a very short period of time. The system was developed at the Rehabilitation Engineering Department, Rookwood Hospital, Llandaff, Cardiff.
Play Therapy and Counselling Work with Children
Authors: Copley Beta , Forryan Barbara , O'Neill Linda
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapists are increasingly being asked to carry out individual therapeutic work with emotionally disturbed children. The concepts underlying a psychodynamic approach to this type of work are outlined. The need for careful preparation of the framework and setting, how to begin talking with the child and what toys to provide are discussed. The first two sessions of work with a 2½-year-old boy give an opportunity to see how the occupational therapist relates to the feelings communicated by his or her patient. A 12-year-old girl's therapy is described in its later stages, with attention paid to the planning of endings. The occupational therapist's role and level of therapy are distinguished from the work of a child psychotherapist, and the need for training and continuing supervision is stressed.