Risks with Older Adults in Acute Care Settings: Occupational Therapists' and Physiotherapists' Perceptions

Abstract

Introduction:

In acute care hospitals, risk assessments are integral to therapy practice. However, to date, this area has not been explored in any specific depth within occupational therapy or physiotherapy, although there is evidence that the management of risk causes uncertainty and anxiety among professionals. Different perspectives of risks may have an influence on the discharge end point.

Method:

This study explored the self-reported risk-taking behaviours of occupational therapists and physiotherapists. A qualitative approach was taken, with reflective diaries used to record the self-reported risk-taking behaviours of therapists in a teaching hospital. Eight therapists recorded 16 reflections in total, which were analysed using template analysis.

Findings:

The findings suggest that support from members of the team, collegiality and clinical confidence were important to manage risks. Therapists were willing to take risks in order to meet patient goals, to facilitate the rehabilitation process or to enhance the patient's quality of life. However, there may be instances of interprofessional differences that need to be managed.

Conclusion:

This research has highlighted the need for therapists to reflect continually upon risk situations in professional practice. There is a need for support and guidance to be put in place to enable positive risk taking.