What is the OTPF?

         The OTPF is the Bible of Occupational Therapy, per say. This stands for the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework.  The OTPF gives OTs globally a guideline of standards we should follow, why we follow them, uniform terminology, and philosophies that define our practice.
         The OTPF is not only for OTs, however. The OTPF is useful to other healthcare professionals, clients, consumers, educators, and even researchers. It addresses the OT process and domain, as well as our scope of practice. This document shows the focus of our profession on health and wellness. As our profession evolves, the OTPF does as well. It even includes information such as ICD billing codes. Practitioners use the OTPF to guide evaluation, intervention, and outcome. When in doubt, go to the OTPF.

OT influences in Traumatic Events

Throughout the Era Presentations today, the topic of traumatic events and the roles of OTs in those events was reiterated numerous times. I have never put the role of an OT into that perspective. I realized that OTs not only provide physical rehabilitation, but just as much mental rehabilitation as well. Occupational therapists go above and beyond what is expected of them during discouraging and traumatic times. One group mentioned OTs transitioning victims of 9/11 back into society, while another mentioned an OT taking her client shopping. For an OT to go out of their facility to encourage and promote the well being of a client is absolutely amazing. These OTs set the standard for the type of OT I aspire to be one day.

Specialty Certification in Environmental Modification

A Specialty Certification in Environmental Modifications sparks my interest for multiple reasons. Not only would it be great to find equipment to further assist clients in accomplishing their occupations, but it would also guarantee continuous learning because I would have to ensure that I am up to date on the latest adaptive equipment. I feel that this is a great area to be involved in because if a client had a burn accident and had to have fingers amputated, I could find equipment that could enable them to still type on a computer or open bottles and cans. When clients encounter those situations, they typically assume that many of their daily tasks can never be completed independently again. Having the opportunity to show them the different types of adaptive equipment and show them how they can independently accomplish those tasks would be life changing. It could mean equipment as simple as a wheelchair ramp at their homes or even equipment to make pouring a glass of milk easier. I would love seeing how equipment improves and changes over time.

Person Before Patient

         "You're a failure." That is what a professor says to you after making a low grade on a quiz. It sounds horrible, doesn't it? You slip up on one aspect of your life and suddenly it defines who you are. One aspect of you should not become what you are. That does not mean that you are a failure at being a mother, a father, a friend, or an athlete.
          This is why it is important to utilize person-first language. When a person has a stroke, they are commonly referred to as a "stroke patient." They are not recognized by their accomplishments, such as being a hard working parent or even a doctor if they are a physician. They are recognized by what limits them the most. If a person is recognized for who they are before their weaknesses, I believe they will have a better outlook on therapy and other interventions. Clients need to be reminded of who they truly are in order to motivate them to work towards being at the same level of functionality as they were prior to their injury or condition. If a client is constantly reminded of their disability or injury, they may not believe that they can improve. If they are six weeks into therapy and are still being reminded of their condition, they will not recognize the progress they have made because they are identified as what put them in therapy.
          Additionally, clients may see their condition as a permanent barrier if they are addressed with it. If I ask a client with autism to perform a task, but they have only been referred to as an autistic person, then they may immediately assume that they cannot accomplish certain tasks due to their "label."
         If practitioners being to use person-first language and help clients realize that they are seen as much more than their limitations, success will be inevitable. Clients will see the potential that we see as occupational therapists. Any step forward is progress, and progress is the goal.