Ethical Decision Making in Occupational Therapy
Ethical decision making in Occupational Therapy. Ethics, or the study of standards of conduct and moral judgment, is part of the branch of philosophy referred to as moral philosophy. The study of ethics includes a “systematic study of rules of conduct that is grounded in philosophical principles and theory.” In laymen’s terms, ethics is a […]
Read MoreChoosing a Telehealth Platform
Choosing a telehealth platform requires careful consideration. According to Smithsonian Magazine, the first telehealth platform, the Teledactyl, was imagined in 1925 by Hugh Gernsback. While the Teledactyl was never used for telemedicine, the COVID-19 public health emergency resulted in the widespread use of other platforms for telehealth. Many organizations have found telehealth to be a […]
Read MoreTreating Deconditioning in Older Adults
Especially in older adults, deconditioning is a significant factor in physical outcomes. As the saying goes, “use it or lose it.” Especially in older adults, deconditioning is a significant factor in physical outcomes. Researchers have noted that older patients tend to have low levels of engagement in exercise, particularly after a hospital discharge. Physical therapists […]
Read MoreA Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Dysphagia Therapy
Dysphagia can occur at any age and can present differently in clients based on the cause. Although eating can seem intuitive for most people, the actual act of eating is a surprisingly complex task. It requires multiple mechanical skills, including bringing food to the mouth, chewing, and swallowing. The process can present challenges for significant […]
Read MoreAn Occupational Therapist’s Guide to Community Fitness for Older Adults
Community fitness and the aging U.S. population. Nearly 10,000 Baby Boomers turn 65 every day. As the U.S. population grows older, access to quality wellness and physical fitness is a priority. Older adults are looking for fun, engaging programs that help them maintain their independence and optimal health. There is an increasing demand for skilled instructors […]
Read MoreManaging Post-Stroke Incontinence
Post-stroke incontinence occurs when the forebrain is damaged – the forebrain is the largest part of the brain. According to the Stroke Association, about half of all stroke survivors admitted to the hospital experience incontinence. Incontinence after stroke alters the survivor’s ability to control their bladder and bowel functions. Incontinence severity varies from light leakage […]
Read MoreOccupational Therapy for Post Traumatic Stress
Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) are skilled in helping people with PTSD increase functional performance by addressing barriers to occupational performance. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, series of events, or set of circumstances. PTSD does not appear in everyone. […]
Read MoreA PT’s Guide to Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis
Physical therapists play a critical role in identifying and preventing deep vein thrombosis in at-risk patients. A 36-year-old female patient receives treatment at a physical therapy clinic for lymphedema management of her right upper extremity secondary to a recent mastectomy. One morning, she presents with complaints of sudden swelling and tenderness in her upper left […]
Read MoreChronic Musculoskeletal Pain and the Military
Excessive exercise can lead to chronic pain in the musculoskeletal system. The military is known for its intense training and requirement of top physical condition. However, training and conditioning can come at a physical cost to a military service member’s body. Excessive exercise can lead to chronic pain in the musculoskeletal system. Recommended course: Pain […]
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