Occupational therapy in acute inpatient psychiatry: an activities health approach.
This article discusses some of the challenges that occupational therapists working in acute psychiatric inpatient settings commonly face. There is often a lack of sufficient time available for treatment as well as limitations inherent in addressing functional problems in the artificiality of a hospital environment. A theoretical framework is introduced from which the role of occupational therapy and realistic objectives for acute short-term care can be identified. This framework for inpatient occupational therapy practice is based on the concept of activities health, which provides a definition of health in functional rather than medical terms. The importance of emphasizing the patient's competence in roles assumed in community living is emphasized. A step-by-step approach to program development with specific examples is also provided.
Robinson
A M
AM
Department of Psychiatry, St. Vincent's Hospital and Medical Center, New York, New York 10011.
Avallone
J
J
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D006801:Humans; D007297:Inpatients / Q000523:psychology*; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D012648:Self Care; D014830:Vocational Guidance