Inter-professional comparison of and research of occupational therapists’ role in preventive practice for disuse syndrome in acute elderly inpatients

Abstract

This study aimed at clarifying the practical circumstance of professionals and the role of Occupational Therapists (OT) in preventing disuse syndrome through multidisciplinary teamwork among acute elderly inpatients. The subjects were OT, Physical Therapists (PT) and Nurses. We analyzed the results of a questionnaire on the practicality of preventing disuse syndrome and recognizing the roles of the subjects. The findings revealed the main roles of each professional in preventing disuse syndrome in the acute phase. The main roles of the subjects were as follows:OTs were responsible for intervention in life function, PTs intervened in physical function, and Nurses cared for patients in the hospital ward. In addition, the results revealed that there are partial differences among professionals in recognizing the role of OTs. In order for OTs to work effectively in a team, they should acknowledge subjective and objective perceptions of their roles, and expand of opportunities to highlight their expertise through cultivating specific jargon.