Public Health - Group rehab and dynamics

Question 1

What are the stages of group formation?

Answer 1

Forming- Initial stage. Mixed feelings.
Storming- competition, conflict, responsibility
Norming- cohesion, sharing of leadership and acknowledgement of all, change preconceived ideas.
Performing- hard work leads, without friction, to the achievement of the team’s goal.
Adjourning- end stage

Question 2

List the advantages of group rehab

Answer 2

Time saving and cost effective.
Motivating (support)- confidence
See other people with the same disability- increases self-acceptance.
Friendships-encourages patient interaction
Progress from individual treatment to self responsibility and care.
Learn to work with others-team spirit

Question 3

What are the principles of group rehab?

Answer 3

• Have a group therapy plan (clear objectives; time scheduled; resources; exercises etc.)

-Select  patients/clients carefully 
>assess patients individually before being included into a group.
>Similar disabilities/medical condition.
>Cardiovascular fitness.
>Mentally able to cope

• Prepare the area-venue -access, size, safety etc.
• Start with an ice breaker-joke; game
• Inform patients/clients about the goals of the group
• Select exercises appropriately according to the group (patient/client) needs

-Apply the principles of therapeutic exercises:
>Before starting with exercises: advice on contraindication and precautions.
>Begin and end with breathing exercises and coughing.
>Intersperse breathing exercises within the exercises sets.
>Warm up-large mobilizing and stretching exercises
>Main- easiest to hardest.
>Cool-down and stretch
Change exercises / positions to avoid boredom
Usage of equipment; Music and Games