week 7 Flashcards
What is clinical reasoning in occupational therapy (OT)?
Clinical reasoning is the ability to explain why an OT is doing something with a client. It involves being able to answer, “Why am I doing this with this client?” Clinical reasoning includes:
* Narrative reasoning (client’s story)
* Procedural reasoning (medical conditions)
* Pragmatic reasoning (workplace context)
* Ethical reasoning (values and beliefs)
Example: Deciding on an intervention after evaluating a client’s personal goals, their medical background, and available resources.
What is evidence-based practice in OT?
EBP integrates research evidence, clinical expertise, patient preferences, and practice context to inform clinical decision-making. The goal is to provide effective, patient-centered care.
Sources of Evidence:
1. Research evidence
2. Clinical expertise
3. Practice context
4. Patient values and preferences
What is the goal of Practice Education in OT?
Practice Education helps students integrate knowledge, professional reasoning, and behavior into real-world practice. It involves developing competence required to be a qualified OT.
Important Considerations:
* Communication (verbal, non-verbal, body language)
* Professional behavior and ethical conduct
Example: First-year site visits will focus on asking questions and participating actively, though students may not perform full OT processes yet.
What is expected of a health professional in terms of behavior?
Health professionals should:
* Maintain professionalism in communication and appearance.
* Exhibit respectful, empathetic, and ethical conduct.
* Adhere to the code of conduct set by AHPRA.
Example: Active listening, respectful body language, and adherence to confidentiality.
What constitutes unprofessional behavior in OT?
Unprofessional behavior can include:
* Being late or unprepared
* Lack of respect for others
* Inappropriate communication or appearance
* Violating ethical or confidentiality standards
What happens if professional behavior is not maintained in OT practice?
Consequences of unprofessional behavior may include:
1. Verbal warning
2. Written warning
3. Supervision or additional training
4. Reduced responsibilities
5. Removal from placement
6. Formal disciplinary action (e.g., probation or termination)
How do OTs contribute to mental health care?
OTs work with individuals experiencing mental health conditions across the lifespan (children, adults, and older adults). They:
* Conduct assessments and provide interventions.
* Work in roles such as program development, case management, and group services.
Example: OTs work with individuals with anxiety, depression, PTSD, dementia, etc., to improve participation in daily activities and overall quality of life.
How do OTs modify environments for accessibility?
OTs assess and modify environments (home, workplace, school, and community) to improve safety, independence, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Examples:
* Home modifications (e.g., ramps, handrails)
* Workplace modifications (e.g., ergonomic adjustments)
* Community modifications (e.g., accessible public spaces)
What is expected of students in Week 7 for Practice Education?
Students should:
* Participate in site visits and access audits.
* Engage in discussions about professional behavior.
* Identify areas of OT practice they are interested in.
Example: Week 7 includes registering for access audit groups and participating in practice education sessions.
Why is environmental assessment important in OT?
Environmental assessments help identify barriers and implement modifications to support independence and improve participation in daily activities. OT aims to create environments that are inclusive and supportive.
Example: Assessing whether a space is accessible for a wheelchair user.
