Post Sim Reflection

I am always very nervous waiting outside a client's door prior to the sim lab. I felt much more confident in my abilities as a future practitioner for this simulation. It is hard to prepare for the unknown questions that might arise. However, I was more confident in my abilities to answer questions and provide the standardized patient relevant information and explain the evaluation  I was mindful of body placement and making some form of physical contact this time compared to previous SIM's. I made an effort to incorporate the child's likes and interests into my sensory schedule. I wanted to make sure the mom knew that my suggestions were not rules. I told the mom the activities on the form did not all have to be completed. I tried to make the activities things that could be easily incorporated into their day and not set the child apart form peers. I felt better about my abilities to practice mindfulness for myself and also be mindful of my client. 


There are many things I could do better. Skills I can always improve are increasing my empathy, asking probing open ended questions, and making sure the client understands the information. In a real life scenario, these things might be easier to achieve. For example, the client seemed distraught, tired and overwhelmed when I entered the room. I should have taken the time to adequately address her feelings through probing questions and active listening techniques, instead of going through my mental checklist of the things I needed to address. If I could do things differently, I would make sure the mom completely understood all the information I was telling her. For example, I could have the mom tell me what she is going to tell her daughter's teacher regarding the child's sensory needs. This way, it is not belittling her, or assuming she does not grasp the concepts, to check for understanding. I would change the way I discuss the sensory schedule and tell the mom that the activities can be changed, substituted or removed completely. This is something that we would do in our next session or follow up. I would ask more open ended questions about their daily life and her child's routine. I would also put more emphasis on treatment being a team effort of the child, the mom and the OT. 

A caring attitude is communicated primarily through body language. Making conisistent eye contact with the client lets them know you are listening to what they are saying. Incorporating some of their personal details and interests into the session conveys a message of caring to a client. I personally know that if a doctor or therapist remembers a personal detail about me, it makes me feel like im more than just a patient. I am a real person to them. Sitting within close proximity to a client shows a level of caring and breaks down barriers regarding status. When a therapist can talk to a client in basic conversation form, this makes the encounter natural and can imply a level of caring. Another way to communicate an attitude of caring is to ensure they have your professional contact information for questions. Additionally, telling a client that questions are welcomed and encouraged can make them feel like you sincerely care about their outcomes and want to provide the best level of care. This way, they feel like they aren't just a client to check off for the day. They are someone with whom a therapeutic relationship can begin to form. 

This simulation taught me to be prepared for emotions in therapy. Parents might cry or ask if their child is "normal". I will remember to be honest with parents and clients regarding the status of their loved ones or themselves, but remain empathetic and positive. I will focus more on the clients strengths instead of focusing on what they cannot do. I will have empathy for client's situations and can use techniques to make sure they know they are important and that I care about them. This is what makes OT so unique and why I am so excited to begin my career as a therapist. I will remember to make physical contact at least once, ask more probing questions, check for understanding, and remember the perspective of the client. 

Neuro Note 4

I watched a movie on Netflix called Walk, Ride, Rodeo. It was about a 19 year old girl who loved riding horses and competitions. Her identify was in her occupation of professional riding. She had a bright future ahead of her in college and as a rider. One day, she was driving and she ran off the road and flipped her truck. She was not wearing a seat belt and was thrown out of the car. She hit a fence post with her back very hard. The doctor in the movie says Amberley's T12 vertebrae was crushed and she was paralyzed from the waist down. The spinal cord was not completely severed, but the doctor stated she would need a wheelchair for the rest of her life.  Amberley stated she wanted to accomplish three things after her time in rehab: walking, riding and participating in the rodeo. This is what we discussed in class as how sometimes clients ask us "Will I ever _____ again?". For Amberley, her blank was riding her beloved horse, Power. She struggled with herself and the new life she had to live. She had moments where she wanted to give up, but she did not. She worked hard in rehab.

Although the movie featured her journey in PT and not OT, I saw many places where occupational therapy could shine.

Amberley took it upon herself to have a seat belt installed to her horse saddle so she could maintain balance on her horse without the use of her legs. She made adaptations to the saddle to accommodate her after the injury. She had strong family support and support from people world wide. She shocked people with her attitude and mindset of "I can do this". She went on to compete in her dream completion, the American in Texas. I chose this because the movie does a good job at showing that a devastating injury does not have to mean losing the ability to participate in meaningful occupations. Things might have to be adjusted but Amberley could still ride her horse. I learned a lot about how determined a client can be in their own healing process. There are many factors like family and social support and client motivation that contribute to the intervention outcome. I recommend this movie as one that was not only entertaining (based on a true story) and educational to OT students.

To watch Walk, Ride, Rodeo follow the link:
https://www.netflix.com/title/80995799

This picture is Amberley and Power. Retrieved from: http://ihearthorses.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/power-976x1024.jpg

Media Project

This project was a nice challenge for creativity. I try to be creative in everyday life and in my own home, but it was quite challenging when given the case of Joe and the media of pipe cleaners. I was forced to think creatively and out side of the box. I wanted to give Joe a solution to lower body dressing while still providing the just right challenge. The ideas I kept thinking of would have all worked wonderfully for someone with sensory or fine motor deficits. Joe's main concern was the need for full assistance when lower body dressing. It took me a while to come up with something that Joe could use in performing his occupations. Finally, I came up with a way to use pipe cleaners for lower body dressing! The most meaningful and useful thing learned was to not limit myself or my creativity. No matter what resources you have, there is always something that can be made. Pipe cleaners were less than $1 and I was able to create something to assist in lower body dressing. I also learned that thinking yourself is the best way to become more creative. Sometimes I would resort to Pinterest for inspiration but I could not find anything. It made me realize that I can be creative and use these skills to help my future clients.

While working on this project, I learned how to become more creative and use things around the house to be meaningful to a client. Interventions do not always have to be pretty, expensive or even fun to look at. They just have to get the job done. Thats how my pipe cleaner dressing aid is. It isn't perfect but it is unique. I learned a lot about the use peers to encourage creative thoughts and ideas. As a future OT, I will feel more comfortable and confident when faced with a challenging situation. I can use almost any resource for something outside of its intended purpose. This assignment will challenge me in my furniture clinical work but has also made me more confident as I begin my career.

Neuro Note #3

Katherine Wolf was a 26 year old new mom when her life changed forever. She was in the height of happiness with the birth of her first child and her husband about to graduate from law school. She was in the kitchen one morning and said she was feeling funny. She got her husband to call 911. When they got to the hospital the surgeon told her husband she would not survive. However, she did! She suffered a stroke in her brain stem due to a congenital malformation she was unaware of. We have learned in class about the brainstem and its importance. It controls breathing, heart rate and motor functions.

During surgery, they removed half of her cerebellum and intra cranial nerves. She was then in a coma for two months! This was a major life altering event. She was able to go back home and decided to live the life she was given to the best of her ability. She uses a cane and sometimes a wheelchair to walk or get around. She cannot drive. She talks about how she was just thankful she did not have to leave her son. Being a mom and wife are roles she values and makes up her identity. She did not let suffering a CVA take away from her performance in meaningful occupations. I chose this because it really inspired me and affected me watching this sweet young mom go through something so traumatic. She did not let it dampen her spirit. One thing Katherine said was very inspiring. She stated, "living as a mother with a disability is actually a profound gift because they're seeing life being broken and not perfect...".

She proceeded to have a second child named John. With her husband, they founded and started  working at Hope Heals. It is a  non profile ministry and their goal is to inspire and support other families with disabilities through faith. I highly recommend everyone watch their short video which can be found at https://bit.ly/31LiFUo. I believe that if Katherine had just given up, she would have fallen into depression. It is an inspiration to keep going and adapt as needed to any curve balls life throws at you. She made the most of her situation and is changing the lives of other families through her ministry! I learned a lot from her about motivation and the importance of keeping meaningful occupations in your life after a life altering occurrence. With a support system and a good medical team, she is living her life to the best of her ability and is thankful for everyday.

 Retrieved From: https://bit.ly/31LiFUo

Bryant, K. (2019, July 25). 'Having a Stroke as a New Mom Changed Everything, but I'm Treating It 

Like a Gift'. Retrieved August 19, 2019, from https://www.parents.com/parenting/dynamics/having-a-stroke-as-a-new-mom-changed-everything-but-im-treating-it-like-a-gift?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=health_health&utm_content=video_internalcrosspromotion9

Neuro Note #2

I watched a Ted Talk called "ALS hasn't won- ALS ONE!" by Kevin Gosnell. He was diagnosed with the fatal disease, ALS, in 2015. He is a proud dad of three sons and as he states "married to his best friend". He talks about the struggles of ALS. He says as he progresses he will experience dysphagia and have to go on a feeding tube like we discussed in class. This is a decision he will make before progression with his care team. I chose this Ted Talk because it discusses research and the lack of funding for it. He talks about insurance and how they won't pay for basic household needs like a seat for the toilet or equipment for his bathroom. This is something OT's can be involved in as we are our client's advocate.  He discusses the emotional impact of knowing he won't see his children achieve all their milestones. He won't be able to see the success of his company. He will be "imprisoned" in his own body because of dysarthria. It really made me realize the impact of this disease even more and the importance of having an OT. During the remaining valuable time one has, they could have an OT make the most of it through adaptive technology and family education. He reiterates the importance and value of time. As an OT, we can help that client still have meaning and value to their lives as the disease progresses. 

He was a successful business man. He and his childhood friend created their own company called T&K Asphalt Services.  He puts great emphasis on time and how it is the most valued commodity. He strives to bring light to the need for ALS research. He gathered the best ALS doctors to a conference room in Mass General hospital in efforts to take ALS with a head on unified approach. They created a care team and plan. The focus was on working as a team. They are launching ALS One, to try to create a treatment in four years or less. They raised money through various fundraisers. They made a website and are still continuing to this day. The team came together to use their skills and valuable time to work for a cure to ALS.
He stated he knows this work will not help him, but hopefully his work will help the next family diagnosed with ALS. During his last year on earth he made a massive impact in the ALS community.

I will recommend this concise Ted Talk to anyone who wants to learn more about ALS and the research going on through ALS ONE which Kevin Gosnell founded. It was an inspiration to me.

TED. (2015, November 25). Kevin Gosnell: ALS hasn't won- ALS ONE! [Video file]. Retrieved from 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OvCUhA2KuAY

Neuro Note #1

When discussing spinal cord injuries in class, I was reminded of the recent film "Me Before You". A girl named Louisa Clark becomes the caretaker for a man who is tetraplegic. The man is named Will Traynor. He was a business man in London prior to his accident. He is very well off and resides in his parents home but has his own area of the house. He has a cold and distant attitude towards Louisa at first. Overtime, they begin to fall in love with each other. Will wants to attempt physician assisted suicide despite the recent happiness he has found with Louisa. Will struggles with his disability and extreme lifestyle changes as he once was a womanizer businessman. I chose this movie because it shows the emotional and mental toll a spinal cord injury can have on a person. In an instant, their life is changed forever. I learned about the direct impacts of injury and how it effects every aspect of your life. I learned the difference a support system and a companion can make. Will feels like he has no reason to live until he meets Louisa. Louisa is will's caregiver and companion. She assists him in all of his ADL's and meaningful occupations. She takes him on outings including the beach. Having a loving support system plays a vital role in prognosis and recovery and is accurately shown in the film. This movie depicts the everyday life of a man with a spinal cord injury. In the movie, Since Will was so wealthy, he was able to have any resource at his disposal. He was very high socioeconomic status and had adaptive technology at his disposal.

The three main things we discussed in OT 537 was regarding prognosis is level of lesion, socioeconomic status, and complete or incomplete injury. Will had a very high spinal cord injury and was a tetraplegic with a complete spinal cord injury.  He was of high economic status and had a support system around him. This movie reinforced key concepts we learned in class through the characters.


Sharrock, T. (Director), & Rosenfelt, K., & Owen, A. (Producers). (2016). Me Before You [Motion picture on DVD]. United States of America: WarnerBros.

Mobility Hierarchy

The hierarchy for mobility skills begins activities that have a larger base of support and progress to activities that are completely independent. The bottom or base of the pyramid begins with bed mobility. Bed mobility something most of us take for granted every night. However, for client's with disabilities, bed mobility requires assistance. Bed mobility is the first step to a client gaining independence and for transfers. The next is mat transfer followed by a wheelchair transfer. As we move up the pyramid the activity demands increase and the transfer surfaces change. The pyramid continues to bed transfer, functional ambulation for ADL's, toilet and tub transfer, car transfer, functional ambulation for community mobility, and community mobility/ driving. 

At first look this pyramid did not make much sense to me. However, having the knowledge I do now it makes complete sense. The goal is to see what the client is capable of and provide assistance as needed. That may be giving them extra time, a cue, or adaptive equipment. The pyramid starts off with bed mobility. In a bed, the client is completely supported and there is lower risk of injury when moving. Bed mobility can be therapist assisted by bridging, log rolling or a segmented roll. Ultimately, the client has to trust the therapist guiding them. As they gain more skills to meet changing activity demands, the client can progress up the hierarchy to gain more independence. As a client progresses, their self efficacy increases. They can work towards their goal on the pyramid, like walking or community mobility. The hierarchy progresses from the basic bed mobility because it is an important skill needed as a base, in order to do transfers. The pyramid makes perfect sense in how it builds on basic mobility skills all the way up to very complex activities like driving. I agree with using this approach because it builds skills, client confidence and trust. 

In the past, I have observed this hierarchy even though I was unaware of the pyramid at the time. In a nursing home, the OT would assist the client out of bed and into the wheel chair using a stand pivot. Once in the wheelchair, the client was able to go where she pleased, including meeting her family for lunch in the cafeteria. In SIM labs, I have learned how to properly assist my clients when transferring, assess their level of competence, and safely transfer a client. I learned the importance of properly placing bed height and where to place the wheelchair. Simple things I have seen in observation like maneuvering heels towards the transfer surface and a stand pivot now make complete sense as I continue to learn the sound reasoning behind the techniques. Finally, I learned the key safety topics to always do with a client: gait belt, locking the brakes of wheelchair and bed, and moving castor wheels of the chair backwards. The SIM labs were a very valuable learning experience that I am so grateful to complete. 

Assistive Devices

Assistive devices make an enormous impact in establishing or maintaining independence for people with a permanent or temporary disability. In order to properly assist our clients with their devices, we must make sure they are fitted to our client. Properly fitting a client ensures the client has proper body mechanics and posture when using a device like a cane or wheelchair. Properly fitting also decreases compensatory movements that can strain the body over time. Properly fitting a device also decreases the risk of injury or fall. Safety while using a device is top priority.

Another consideration is fitting a client to a device that is most appropriate to meet their needs. These needs include personal and environmental. A client may benefit from a power wheelchair over a standard. Considering their diagnosis, choose their assistive device based on their condition for the next five years, not just their abilities at the present moment. Insurance will only pay for a wheelchair once every five years so as a clinician, it is our responsibility to advocate for the most beneficial device.

When fitting a client to a cane, axillary crutches, Lofstrand crutches, platform walker, or a rolling walker, certain body landmarks are to be used for reliability and comfort. 

For a cane, the handle should be in line with the wrist crease, ulnar styloid or greater trochanter. The cane's height is easily adjustable and can be secured by tightening the locking mechanism. The cane should be held with the elbow slightly flexed. Quad cane's wider legs should be pointing away from the body to avoid a tripping hazard.

Axillary crutches should rest 5 cm below to axilla to avoid compressing nerves in the brachial plexus. The hand grips should be in line with the wrist crease, ulnar styloid and greater trochanter. Lofstrand crutches arm band should be positioned 2/3 of the way up the forearm.

For walkers, the hand grip should be in line with he wrist crease, ulnar styloid and greater trochanter. For a platform walker, the platform surface should be positioned to allow weight bearing through the forearm. The ulna should be 1-2 inches from the platform surface. The handle should be positioned towards the midline for comfort. 

Posture and Body Mechanics

Most back pain adults have can be prevented or decreased by using proper posture and body mechanics when completing everyday activities or lifting objects. Teaching clients proper posture and body mechanics can prevent injury. As OT's, we have the ability to educate clients in order to prevent future issues that can improve independence and quality of life. Adapting health habits can decrease the risk of further injury, back pain, nerve damage, deformities and risk for surgeries. Proper body mechanics will help a client lift something as safely and effectively as possible. Modifications can be made to accommodate different lifting circumstances to increase spinal alignment and good body mechanics. Teaching proper body mechanics reduces the strain and stress placed on the back muscles that get enough strain normally and do not need more placed on it. Proper posture can increase efficient respiration and organ function because the rib cage can fully expand. In addition, it requires minimal energy expenditure when using proper posture and mechanics. 

When teaching a client proper body mechanics, I would relate specific examples back to their personal daily routine. I would examine the activity demands of their occupation (job) and give clear demonstration and examples to show proper body mechanics and posture. For example, if a client sits at a computer for most of the day, I would explain how they might have exaggerated spinal curves that can overstretch muscles and connective tissues.I would suggest frequent breaks and incorporating exercise and walking into their day.  Over time, excessive thoracic kyphosis can produce weakness and tightness. I would demonstrate proper alignment and suggest any chairs, desks or equipment to encourage proper posture. While sitting, I would teach the client how to shift their weight frequently, as well as distribute their weight throughout both legs. 

If a client worked a physically demanding job such as construction or a mechanic, I would explain the importance of keeping a solid base of support and line of gravity. I would demonstrate how to properly lift an object by keeping it close to you, the spine straight, and lift from the legs.I would use a broom stick to visual show the client how to keep an erect, neutral spine when lifting. It should stay as close to the body when lifting. Any other visual aids, like videos, can be used.  I would encourage looking at their body mechanics in the mirror and then correcting. Proper posture and body mechanics is a habit that can be adapted over time. If they had problems when they are relaxing at home with back pain, we could introduce a pillow between the knees to alleviate pressure accompanied by side lying or a neutral position. trunk and core strength is vital in successful body mechanics when lifting. Exercising and strengthening should be done frequently to decrease the risk of injury. 

Man from the South

The little finger is extremely important for grip strength and opposition. If the soldier lost the bet, he would loose most of his abilities to grip objects. The little finger is important for holding and lifting things. The soldier would not be able to hold his gun, assuming he was a combat soldier. Holding a gun steadily inorder to accurately fire would require a power grip. The pinky is vital to all grip types like cylincirdcal, hook, power and spherical. If he drinks coffee his ability to hold his coffee cup would also be impaired. Holding a tooth brush would also present as a new challenge due to lack of an effective grip. He could not have a strong hold on his gun, coffee cup or tooth brush. The loss of a dinger presents a barrier to Activities of Daily living. 

The wife only had one finger and her thumb remaining on her hand. She would have no ability to grasp objects firmly. When doing laundry, she would be limited to a fine pincer type grip with her two fingers. She could not control any large items in her hands. Picking up a cooking skillet would be a barrier with only two fingers on her hand. The muscles in the hand would not be strong enough to hold a heavy pot or skillet with one finger and a thumb. The wife would not be able to hold pencil and write out her grocery list or pay bills. Driving her Cadillac would be difficult if unable to hold onto the steering wheel and control it. 

A modification for the soldier would be a prosthetic pinky that is controlled by the forearm and wrist. Although it may not provide all function back, the goal would be to restore the ability to grip and control objects like his gun. prosthesis is not an option, the soldier would have to adapt by learning alternative ways to everyday activities (with the help of his OT if available). To pick up his coffee cup, he could grasp his remaining fingers from two hands around his coffee mug to bring it towards his mouth utilizing his palms. A modified toothbrush handle could be implemented such as a finger tooth brush. The bottom of the tooth brush is like a glove that slips onto fingers. The more fingers the brush could fit on would increase the stability and muscle movement needed to brush his teeth. A picture is attached below! The soldier could work on the strength of the remaining digits to increase their ability to compensate for the loss. 






Retrieved From: http://www.nukbrush.com

Knowledge Check April 18th

Health literacy and health promotion is a major part of what makes OT unique. One thing I learned was that many people read at a very low reading level. They are given medication and cannot accurately take it due to lack of reading skills. The video we watched was very sad but eye opening. As an OT, we have a unique position to fill in the gaps from general practice to at home living. We can help promote health and the initiatives of Health People 2020 and 2030.

The Institute for Healthcare Improvement established the triple aim for healthcare. This addresses improving population health, per capita cost and experience of care. Occupational therapy can use treatments for direct health promotion. I learned the wide effect health literacy has on the population. It inhibits client's ability to navigate the healthcare system, engage in health concepts and engage in their own self care. OT has the power to prevent diseases or disabilities whether it is primary, secondary or tertiary prevention. I look forward to making a change in the healthcare system by implementing the three aims of the IHI and Healthy People 2020.

Biomechanics Post 3

Scapulohumeral rhythm is the relationship between the movement of scapula and the humerus. It is the ratio between the movement of these two bones. The shoulder has 3 degrees of movement. Two of those degrees are for the humerus and the remaining one is for the scapula. For example, if the humerus moves 120 degrees then the scapula moves the remaining 60 degrees. Scapulohumeral rhythm is essential in allowing full ROM. It allows for full muscle length tension and is needed for efficient arm movement. 

This rhythm permits good length tension relationships allowing for efficient arm movement. Scapulohumeral rhythm decreases shear forces allowing for improved joint congruency. This rhythm involves maintaining subacromial space and decreasing the likelihood of shoulder impingement. This is very important clinically in order to obtain accurate range of motion measurements.Since they work together, the therapist should stabilize the scapula in order to measure the glenohumeral joint range of motion. The shoulder and the scapula work together help to prevent active insufficiency. 

Biomechanics Post 2

Using proper testing procedures when performing Range of motion (ROM) and Manual muscle testing (MMT), improves the accuracy of the data obtained. The use of body landmarks is very important when retesting a client. Bony landmarks gives the therapist a proper place to align the goniometer to ensure they are measuring the correct way. Incorrect use of landmarks can skew data. This makes it hard to record more data after treatment because the original (Baseline) data was incorrect. Real progress can be hard to see. If another therapist retests your client, they may not obtain correct measurements if the original numbers were obtained incorrectly. Simply taking the time to align the goniometer to the proper landmarks can significantly proper interrater and intrarater reliability and retesting data in the future. 

The test position for MMT is the place the muscle can produce optimal muscle contractions. The therapist puts resistance on the distal end of the tested muscle. The therapist stabilizes the proximal segment. The optimal position is mid way through the range of motion. The muscle has to be able to contract at its maximal strength to resists the resistance of the therapist.  The examiner needs to have proper body mechanics while testing their client. They should stand on the side being tested. 

 Gravity eliminated testing is done when the client cannot actively move through their available range of motion. The tested segment is put in a plane where there is no gravity, parallel to the ground.  This removes the resistance component of MMT. The client can now complete the movement in the modified position. 

Knowledge Check April 4th

The Ted Talk, Why We Need Universal Design, focused on the need for products and environments to be accessible and usable for all people without having to modify them. The main point was that innovation is key to remove barriers of our disability. He said we all have a disability. Innovation and technology are key to making universal design.

I chose to listen to the podcast by GlassHalfFullOT called Living in Place and OT's Role in Home Modification. Home modification is so intriguing to me. I am a very tech savvy person. I love adaptive technology. I learned about CLIPP, certified living in place professional and their services. This is something I would be extremely interested in. A few of the most common home modifications are grab bars and elevated toilets. A personal hygiene seat was a new concept for me. It is supposed to help them if they have pain while wiping themselves or develop bacterial infections for improper hygiene. The modifications made are great for function but now are made to be more attractive  making it easier to make the switch to a modified home! There are so many home adaptations that can be made like plugged in flash lights that automatically come on when the power is out. This would be extremely beneficial for the elderly when getting up to go to the bathroom or evacuating the room for an emergency. Simple changes can make a big difference like changing out smoke detectors,   installing grab bars, door levers, and changing faucet temperature. I personally would not have thought about changing the water temperature setting. This certification is one I think all OT's should have.

Biomechanics Post 1

Each day when I arrive at school I sit in my chair. When I start to lower my self into my chair,  I have to flex my knee. At the end of this movement, my knees are flexed and feet flat against the ground. Knee flexion decreases the angle between the lower leg and my femur. When flexing my knees to sit, the movement occurs occurs in the saggital plane about the frontal axis. Knee flexion occurs when my hamstrings are concentrically contracting to pull my tibia closer to the femur.The osteokinematics of sitting, is knee extension to knee flexion through a hinge joint. Sitting is a closed kinematic chain. This is because the feet are pressing against the floor to lower or raise my body. The distal part of my body is not moving free but is fixed to the floor.The arthokinematics of the tibiofemoral joint involve the convex distal femur which rolls posteriorly and glides anteriorly on the tibial plateau. The prime mover knee flexion is the hamstrings.Synergists muscles involved in knee flexion include the gastrocnemius, gracilis and sartorius. 

The Therapeutic Relationship

Therapeutic relationships is one of many aspects that makes the field and profession of OT unique. There are many components that go into the unique relationship between a therapist and a client. The importance of empathy was a big point I took away from the last lecture. Our client's should be able to feel safe and understood in our sessions. They should be able to feel us relate to them and know they are free to express any feelings and concerns when talking to their OT.

Non Verbal communication is a big aspect in being an active listener. Body language speaks volumes. I personally need to be more mindful of my body language when talking to someone. Active listening is something I think is a strength but can still be improved. I have been able to witness first had the therapeutic relationship through my observation hours and it makes me even more excited to become an Occupational Therapist. 

March 14th Knowledge Check

The history of how people were treated since the 1920's for having a disability or any neurological defects was appalling. I never fully understood what being institutionalized meant. People were not taken care of. They were not look at with any respect. They were not provided with any kind of skills, entertainment, or education. Throughout the years things have changed regarding institutions. Improvements are still being made towards a inclusive society and providing accommodations to people. There were many legislative acts that helped get to where we are today. There is a long road ahead of us but we are on the right path. Throughout my career I hope to be an advocate and support people with disabilities live to their fullest potential. 

The TED Talk went hand in hand with the presentation. She was constantly told she couldn't do things, when actually she had the full capability to do so. People looked at her and didn't see a person, they saw her disability. 


The era presentations brought up many of the legislative acts that influenced the rights of the disabled. Some of these are IDEA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Medicare/Medicaid. The presentation showed the impact of these acts and how they helped improve the rights of people with disabilities. 


As a future OT, I will continue to advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. I will have a unique advantage and opportunity to promote their rights. I will see first hand their capabilities and see the person first and not the disability. 

The OTPF

The Occupation Therapy Practice Framework is a document guiding the profession of OT. It lists and describes the concepts the are the framework of the profession. It lists the values and guidelines for the field of OT. It is important to learn about because it guides our profession! It categorizes areas like client factors, performance skills, performance patterns and environment to help make a clear picture of a person's occupation. It can be followed as a guide when assessing a client or helping them discern what exactly they need help improving. It helps describe the distinct profession of OT and promotes health through engagement in occupation.

Role, Occupation, Activity and Task

I am a first year graduate student at UTHSC. My role is an occupational therapy student. My occupations in that role include driving to school, studying, and taking tests. The activities that make up my occupations are organizational skills with my notes and materials. I have to color code information and provide myself with those materials. The task related to this activity can be typing (using finger flexion and extension, fine motor skills), reading, carrying my books to and from my desk, using a pencil and coloring my anatomy notes. I stand for long periods of time in anatomy lab and have to have good posture to prevent muscle aches, and a good range of motion.

Occupational Therapy over time has been about one thing- restoring the important occupations of a person. No matter their situation, OT has been there to help get a client's life closer to the level it was before. OT has changed from more of a medical model to a holistic model. There are things that have never changed also. Our biological needs and occupations as humans, ADL's, are the same. We all have to eat, get dressed and shower.

Cooking trends for some have stayed the same. Typically, parents cook dinner for their children. They will enjoy a meal together around the table while discussing their day. If one looses their ability to cook their family dinner, an occupational therapist will be able to adapt their situation. We help client's complete the occupations they value.

OT over time has been widely recognized and job growth has increased tremendously. With that increase, the average salary of an Occupational Therapist increased. There was a  growing demand for competent OT's. Spirituality has been one thing that the field of OT addresses. Unlike some other professions, spirituality has been in the framework of OT!

Technology has changed. We now has adaptive assistive technology that can help us better treat our patients. A lot has a changed in this wonderful field, but our client centered approach has remained the same.

Why I chose OT as my fUTure Career

OT IS FOR ME 

OT was a new concept to me as I entered my sophomore year of undergrad at Mississippi State. I was a Kinesiology major with no idea of what my future career looked like. I started researching possible career choices that would utilize my Kinesiology background. I stumbled across a website all about the difference between Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy. I knew what PT was but OT was foreign. I quickly fell in love with the whole profession! I set up a shadowing experience at Kids Therapy Spot in Starkville Mississippi. That two hours of shadowing a OT confirmed that I was meant for this job! I started making sure I was on track regarding coursework and prerequisites. I found the program at UTHSC and applied. The rest is history! 😊