OT conversations

In this episode of OT Conversations, occupational therapist Hao introduces and explains the Modified Ashworth Scale, a tool used to measure spasticity in muscles. Hao details what spasticity and tone are, describes the levels of the Ashworth Scale from 0 to 4, and discusses how the scale is utilized in clinical practice. The Modified Ashworth Scale includes an additional step between levels 1 and...

In this episode of OT Conversations, your host Hao delves into the key parameters of assessment and intervention in occupational therapy: independence, safety, adequacy, and value. Whether you're a newly qualified therapist, a student, or an experienced clinician seeking fresh ideas, this discussion covers how these parameters can improve practice and goal-setting in various scenarios. Learn about...

In this episode of 'Occupational Therapy Conversations,' We talk about my experience while working as a locum in an adult physical dysfunction facility where he was asked about a Hangman's fracture. This prompts a review of common fractures that therapists may encounter. We explain various types of fractures such as Barton's, Bennett's, Boxer's, Chance, Colles, Smith's, and many others, detailing...

Hao, an occupational therapist, discusses the importance and complexities of documentation in the field. He highlights issues such as clarity, digital versus paper-based methods, and the audit processes used to ensure compliance with standards. Hao identifies four key types of notes: initial contact/assessment, problem statement, contact notes, and discharge notes, emphasizing their importance in...

In this episode of Occupational Therapy Conversations, we explore the world of cognitive assessments. We look at the possible business of standardized cognitive assessment tools and, we share firsthand experiences. Discover the history, evolution, and various types of cognitive assessments used in occupational therapy, from the MMSE to the MOCA and beyond. Hao discusses the parameters of cognition...

In this episode of OT conversations, we look at dermatomes. Learn how different areas of the body correspond to specific nerve roots on the spinal cord. From identifying key points like the acromioclavicular joint (C4) to the perianal area (S4 and S5), enhance your knowledge to better assess and document patient conditions. This episode is ideal for occupational therapists looking to deepen their...

In this episode, We discuss the key muscles affected by spinal cord injuries at various levels. I explain the specific muscles and their functions, such as the diaphragm at C4, biceps at C5, extensor carpi radialis at C6, triceps at C7, and others down to the anal sphincter at S2. The discussion covers how each muscle or group is impacted and what movements they control, from elbow flexion to fing...

In this episode of OT Conversations, Hao, an occupational therapist, discusses his experiences working as a locum in the United Kingdom. He details the journey from his extensive five-year training outside the UK to adapting to the local healthcare systems. Hao shares insights about the 'ranking system and banding' in the NHS, and expresses occupational therapy's simplicity and holistic nature. He...

In this episode of OT Conversations, Hao, an Occupational Therapist, discusses the concept of praxis and its various forms, focusing on its relevance to clinicians working with neurological cases. Praxis refers to the ability to perform purposeful movements, which can be affected by conditions such as stroke or head injuries, leading to apraxia. Hao explains different types of apraxia: ideomotor,...

In this episode, Hao, an occupational therapist, introduces Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) as an effective method for stroke recovery. CIMT involves restricting the use of the unaffected hand to motivate movement in the affected hand, leveraging the brain's ability to reorganize and recover. Key factors for successful CIMT include cognitive competence, observable finger extension, and...

In this episode of Occupational Therapy Conversations, Hao discusses his personal and professional dedication to the field. He emphasizes that occupational therapy is more than a job—it's a lifelong vocation and commitment. Hao elaborates on the principle of advocacy, stressing that it is a crucial yet under-recognized responsibility within the profession. He shares insights on the wide-ranging sc...

In this episode of Occupational Therapy Conversations, discusses the various roles an occupational therapist takes on, both inside and outside the hospital setting. Hao outlines the four main roles: clinician, educator and mentor, service administrator and manager, and researcher and innovator. Each role is broken down by responsibilities and how they evolve with experience and professional bandin...

In this episode of 'Occupational Therapy Conversations,' Hao, an occupational therapist, delves into the American Occupational Therapy Association's (AOTA) position statement on the role of occupational therapists in critical care. Covering practices across the lifespan, this document emphasizes the essential contributions of occupational therapy in addressing the needs of critically ill patients....

In this episode of OT Conversations, Hao, your occupational therapist, delves into general work ethics. Hao discusses the accountability of therapists to the public, highlighting how some clinicians could be only meeting the bare minimum required. Emphasizing the importance of intrinsic motivation, Hao shares personal experiences and scenarios to illustrate how proactive actions without waiting fo...

In this episode of Occupational Therapy Conversations, we discuss the importance of clinical reasoning and we look at an anticipatory approach to learning and practice. We emphasize on understanding the patient's problems and concerns from an occupational perspective, knowing the patient's medical conditions and their implications, and the importance of proactive rather than reflective learning. W...

In this episode of OT Conversations, we discuss various pathological reflexes, including Babinski, Moro, Sucking, Rooting, Bite, and Grasp reflexes. These reflexes, normal in the early stages of life, become problematic when they persist into adulthood as they indicate issues with the central nervous system. Hao explains how to identify these reflexes and their implications for patients, particula...

Join us as we dive into the essentials of Hao's Principle Based Documentation particularly focusing on occupational therapy. Learn about the importance of clear documentation, key principles, and strategies to enhance communication within multidisciplinary teams. Discover how to structure your notes, highlight key interventions, and ensure smooth handovers for optimal patient care. Perfect for bot...

In this OT Conversations episode, we have valuable tips on structuring and writing down your goals. Learn how to set effective goals using the ABCD method—Audience, Behavior, Condition, and Duration. This easy-to-follow approach can help transform problems into achievable outcomes, making it especially useful in activities of daily living (ADLs) and performance components. Subscribe for more insig...

In this episode of OT Conversations, occupational therapist Hao discusses the four phases of the occupational therapy process: assessment, problem identification and goal setting, intervention, and discharge. Providing detailed insights into each phase, Hao emphasizes the importance of establishing occupational history, understanding patient environments, and using various types of interventions....

In this episode of OT Conversations, the focus is on the Cognitive Disabilities Model, derived from Claudia Allen's Cognitive Disability Frame of Reference. This model, originally aimed at mental illness, has broadened applicability to patients with cognitive limitations from organic problems like brain injury or dementia. The model emphasizes evaluating patients' functional limitations, assessing...

In this episode, I talk about the Rancho Los Amigos Scale for assessing cognitive functioning, particularly in cases of delirium. It details the eight stages of the scale, ranging from no response to purposeful and appropriate responses, providing a helpful guide for OT clinicians working in critical care.

In this episode lists and provides an overview of some OT models and frames of reference that you can use in physical dysfunction, particularly in critical care practice.

In this episode, I compare and refer to professional standards for occupational therapy practice conduct and ethics. I attempted to compare the ethical principles outlined by the RCOT against those set by the World Federation of Occupational Therapy and American Occupational Therapy Association. We highlight key principles such as beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy, justice, veracity, and fidel...

In this discussion, Cassandra, an OTD (Occupational Therapy Doctorate) student, shares insights into the unique OTD program, its distinctions from other educational paths in occupational therapy, and the process of becoming a registered occupational therapist (OTR) in the United States, including the licensure examination NBCOT. She contrasts the educational and professional environment of occupat...

The episode discusses the key skills needed by occupational therapists, including needing to learn about the professional philosophical foundation, conversation skills, physical handling skills, problem and activity analysis skills, measuring skills, and writing skills.