26:T511,

Background. Fieldwork at the University of Alberta traditionally occurred at the end of the academic year after substantial coursework. This model for fieldwork was challenged when the University of Alberta instituted a new curriculum in 2001 which included a four week, full-time Level 1 fieldwork placement early in the first semester. Purpose. The focus of this study was to evaluate an early placement by gathering feedback from the primary stakeholders. Methods. A mail survey comprised of open-ended and closed questions was conducted. Results. Sixty-four student and 82 preceptor surveys were returned. Overall, the feedback from students and preceptors was positive about the value and quality of the placement. However, responses varied regarding the timing and duration of the experience. Both students and preceptors gave suggestions for improvements to these placements. Practice Implications. The results of this study will provide useful information for curriculum planning and for student and preceptor preparation for fieldwork.

27:T530,

Background. Accurate assessment and treatment of pain and stress in preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) is vital because pain and stress responses have been linked to long-term alterations in development in this population. Purpose. To review the evidence of specific extremity movements in preterm infants as observed during stressful procedures. Methods. Five on-line databases were searched for relevant studies. For each study, levels of evidence were determined and effect size estimates were calculated. Each study was also evaluated for specific factors that presented potential threats to its validity. Results. Eighteen studies were identified and seven comprised the review. The combined sample included 359 preterm infants. Six specific movements were associated with painful and intrusive procedures. Clinical Implications. A set of specific extremity movements, when combined with other reliable biobehavioural measures of pain and stress, can form the basis for future research and development of a clinical stress scale for preterm infants.

28:T505,

Background. With the release of the Romanow Commission report, Canadian governments are poised to consider the creation of a national home care program. If occupational and physical therapists are to have input in shaping such a program, they will need to learn from lost opportunities of the past. Purpose. This paper provides an overview of recent reforms to home care in Ontario with an emphasis on rehabilitation services. Method. Data were collected from documents and 28 key informant interviews with rehabilitation professionals. Results. Home care in Ontario has evolved in a piecemeal manner without rehabilitation professionals playing a prominent role in program design. Practice Implications. Rehabilitation services play a critical role in facilitating hospital discharges, minimizing readmissions, and improving the quality of peoples' lives. Canadians will benefit if occupational and physical therapists seize the unique opportunity before them to provide meaningful input into creating a national home care program.

29:T1561,