Occupational therapists' experiences of rehabilitation of patients with limited awareness after stroke

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to describe occupational therapists' experiences of rehabilitation of patients with limited awareness after stroke. Methods: To capture occupational therapists' experiences, a qualitative approach was chosen using five focus groups consisting of 22 participants engaged in group discussions with open-ended questions based on the aim. Discussions were taped, transcribed verbatim, and analysed according to Kreuger's method. The analysis revealed one general description, constant adjustment, with three themes emerging during the analysis: adjustments in choice of activity, adjustments in choice of environment, and therapeutic adjustments. These themes interacted and were dependent on the desired effect of the interventions. Adjustments were made continuously depending on their effect. The occupational therapists strove for patients to avoid unnecessary risks, make realistic decisions, and live as independently as possible.

Key words::

• self-awareness
• occupational therapy
• focus group
• cognitive rehabilitation

Acknowledgement

This study was financed by a grant from the Research and Development Council of Södra Älvsborg county.

Declaration of interest: The authors declare that they have no competing interests. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.