British Journal of Occupational Therapy

A psychosocial assessment form and routine for its completion is described. The reasons why this type of assessment is pertinent to occupational therapy activities are discussed. It forms a basis for further assessments and therapy in areas of intrapsychic (cognitive/emotional), interpersonal (marital/social) or occupational/behavioural functioning.

The work done by patients in the occupational therapy department of a medical rehabilitation centre, was recorded for one day. Both the activities and their purpose were noted. The different types of aims and activities and the frequency of their use were discussed. The different ways that activities were used was also discussed.

Clinical practice has long been recognised as an essential part of occupational therapy education. Occupational therapy students should be given ample opportunities to study and practise the skills they need to learn under close supervision. It is essential for any clinical placement to be a planned one. This article describes how one occupational therapy department sets up one clinical placement.

A transfer board is used for transferring a patient from wheelchair to bed, commode or toilet, bath or chair — and vice versa. The aim is to make patients more independent, to improve concentration and strengthen upper limbs. It also eases the physical work of staff.

Occupational Therapy Departments are concerned with improving the quality of life for disabled people of varying ages and the increasing number of frail elderly people. Increasing emphasis is being placed upon continuing life in the community and this calls for good communications between O.T. Departments and social services although there is no administrative link between them. For an O.T. Department to fulfill its role effectively there is a need for good and reliable data for planning and evaluation. This survey examines the problem in some detail.