Unfortunately, I have to agree that I see the same thing in our profession. I find myself working with very client-centered occupation-focused OTs--typically the ones who have been working >25 years; alongside newer OTs who are "wannabe PTs of the upper extremity". In fact, one colleague in particular stands out. Her patient had a stroke several years ago, and can take care of most of the basics--dressing, toileting, reading, etc. However, every time he has come in in the past several weeks, the OT (my co-worker) comments on how long his nails are; he virtually begs her to cut them; and she proceeds as usual to inform him that she cannot cut his nails--and then stretches his shoulder for the rest of the session. It never ceases to amaze me that nail care has never been addressed in therapy--EVER. Having said that; I also believe in "showing the way" and leading by example. It irks me to see OTs who spend most of the time with their hemiplegic patients lying on their backs at least 75% of the hour while having their shoulders stretched and ranged. Oh well, bitch bitch bitch, hissssssss--sorry about that. Ron I am joining your collective BITCH about our profession. For the New Year, I will resolve to talk only POSITIVELY about us amazing OT professionals! Happy New Year.
________________________________ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] on behalf of Ron Carson Sent: Wed 12/27/2006 7:43 AM To: OTlist@OTnow.com Subject: [OTlist] And Yet the "Saga" Continutes Yesterday, while evaluating a new patient in an ALF, I told her that I was an OT, not a PT. This patient, who was recently d/c from a hospital, says: "Oh, I had OT in the hospital". When asked what they did the patient began doing the "OT Dance"! You know, raising her arms up/down and out to the side (dowel exercises) and moving then in a circular pattern (UE bicycle). I told her that we wouldn't be doing any of that because her arms where not a problem. The patient did say that once a week they baked cookies and that it was fun! As I was leaving the facility, I wanted to clarify with the new director that I was an OT, not PT. You see, I've been providing therapy at this facility for several YEARS. Most orders they receive are for PT. So, I just call the doctor and get it changed to OT or I do a plan of treatment and have the doctor sign it. But, I didn't want the new director thinking I was a PT. As I began explaining to the director, she got a worried look and said "Oh". As the conversation progressed, I explained about the whole UE and LE thing and that it's more a matter of convenience and finances than training. She seemed to understand and told me that she thinks of OT as UE and feeding. Finally, in case you ever wonder why I send these messages. It's because there is a cavern of disparity between AOTA official documents about OT and the reality of what is done by practicing OT's. It is my sincere belief that unless this cavern is closed, OT is at risk for failure. Despite our past success as a profession, I don't think such a cavern has existed to the degree that we are seeing today, at least in adult physical dysfunction. So, there you go. And the answer to the question I previously posted is that the director of the rehab hospital said that OT = U and PT = LE. And you know what, they are right! At least as to what is being practiced, not preached!! Ron -- Options? www.otnow.com/mailman/options/otlist_otnow.com Archive? www.mail-archive.com/otlist@otnow.com ************************************************************************************** Enroll in Boston University's post-professional Master of Science for OTs Online. Gain the skills and credentials to propel your career. www.otdegree.com/otn ************************************************************************************** ----------------------------------------- Smart Medicine. Inspired Care. And the awards to prove it. Recognized as a Top 50 Healthcare Network. To learn about other recognition and awards Baptist has earned, visit: http://www.bmhcc.org/aboutus/awards/index.asp This message and any files transmitted with it may contain legally privileged, confidential, or proprietary information. If you are not the intended recipient of this message, you are not permitted to use, copy, or forward it, in whole or in part without the express consent of the sender. Please notify the sender of the error by reply email, disregard the foregoing messages, and delete it immediately.
-- Options? www.otnow.com/mailman/options/otlist_otnow.com Archive? www.mail-archive.com/otlist@otnow.com ************************************************************************************** Enroll in Boston University's post-professional Master of Science for OTs Online. Gain the skills and credentials to propel your career. www.otdegree.com/otn **************************************************************************************
