Louise Gustafsson1, Nicole Nugent, Lenka Biros. 1. School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Occupational Therapy, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia. l.gustafsson@uq.edu.au
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Occupational therapy after stroke represents a complex intervention. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this observational study was to document the content of occupational therapy stroke rehabilitation in an Australian general rehabilitation ward. METHODS: A behavioural mapping tool recorded 22 occupational therapy sessions at five-minute intervals for nine participants with stroke (mean age 70.6 years, 88.9% female). RESULTS: The mean session length was 41 minutes. The focus of therapy was predominantly at body functions (mean 16.5 minutes) and motor and perceptual impairments were addressed most often. CONCLUSION: The overall amount of occupational therapy provided was consistent with session lengths reported from effective stroke units and recommended by stroke guidelines. However, the results highlight the difficulties for occupational therapists working within the hospital environment, including practice that was largely restricted to the level of impairment and basic activities of daily living.
BACKGROUND: Occupational therapy after stroke represents a complex intervention. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this observational study was to document the content of occupational therapy stroke rehabilitation in an Australian general rehabilitation ward. METHODS: A behavioural mapping tool recorded 22 occupational therapy sessions at five-minute intervals for nine participants with stroke (mean age 70.6 years, 88.9% female). RESULTS: The mean session length was 41 minutes. The focus of therapy was predominantly at body functions (mean 16.5 minutes) and motor and perceptual impairments were addressed most often. CONCLUSION: The overall amount of occupational therapy provided was consistent with session lengths reported from effective stroke units and recommended by stroke guidelines. However, the results highlight the difficulties for occupational therapists working within the hospital environment, including practice that was largely restricted to the level of impairment and basic activities of daily living.