The Principles and Functions Of Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapy (OT) is a patient centered treatment that focuses on assisting people with cognitive, physical or sensory disabilities. The treatment is aimed at helping individuals of all ages become independent, productive and satisfied with their lives. 

Occupational Therapist areas of operation: The areas of operation covered under the occupational therapy framework include Activities of Daily Living (ADL), play, rest and sleep, education, instrumental activities of daily living (IADLS) and work. IADLS include activities such as shopping, raising kids and care for pets, while ADLs include sexual activity, personal hygiene and grooming among others. Occupational therapists who work with children and youths often work in settings such as home, school and clinics. Occupational therapists who work with mental health patients, mostly work in long-term care facilities, mental health facilities, day care centers and hospitals. The mental illness patient’s are usually taught new skills and how to take care of themselves. Occupational therapists also work in nursing homes and rehabilitation centers.

The OT Profession: Occupational Therapy practitioners generally work in two professional levels; occupational therapist assistant (OTA) and occupational therapist. An occupational therapist needs to obtain a master’s or doctorate degree, in addition to getting a pass in the licensing examination in order to practice the profession. Occupational therapist assistants, on the other hand, must possess an associate’s degree. Occupational therapist assistants are, however, only legally required to execute treatment plans passed on by the OT. It is important to recognize that occupational therapist operates systematically following the occupational therapy process. The treatment process involves evaluation, intervention and outcome realization. Many occupational therapy Glenarden Maryland centers and clinics are well equipped to treat adults and children suffering from an array of condition, including work related injuries, post stroke, motor vehicle accidents, joint injuries and traumatic brain injuries.

OT Equipment’s: The equipments used by occupational therapist usually vary depending on the patient’s condition and the targeted outcome. The equipment sub-categories include; push-pull dynamometers, functional capacity evaluation equipments, active passive trainers and play therapy equipments. Functional capacity evaluation equipments (FCE) are used by occupational therapist to gauge the patient’s ability to perform a number of work related functions. FCE’s are very crucial when performing therapies; the equipment can be used to access an individual’s fine motor skills, position tolerance, balance, mobility and strength. Occupational therapy services may also include a comprehensive evaluation of guidance and training of the caregiver and his or her family, as well as assessment of the patients living or working environment.

Finding an Occupational Therapist: You can locate or get in touch with an occupational therapist in Genarden Maryland by searching through your local yellow pages, checking online or getting referrals from hospitals and rehabilitation centers.