Oct 22, 2012- 2:23 PM
October is Occupational Therapy Month
Occupational therapists (OTs) are regulated health professionals who help patients resume their regular routines and activities of daily life, or develop new life skills following an illness, injury, or disability.
They also enable people of all ages to overcome barriers so they can participate in those activities which bring meaning and purpose to life.
OTs may provide interventions in pain management, the development of motor skills, and overcoming mobility and accessibility challenges.
“Occupational therapists work with patients across their lifespan and assist them with the skills they need to meet the demands of daily life,” said Karen Rebeiro, an occupational therapist at the hospital.
“Occupational therapists can also play a key role in alleviating the current ALC situation by assisting in a patient’s transition back into the community.”
There are approximately 46 OTs and five OT assistants at HSN, working in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings, including post-surgical recovery, acute care, mental health, rehabilitation and pediatrics.
“Occupational therapists are an important part of the multidisciplinary care team at HSN,” said David McNeil, vice-president of clinical programs at the hospital.
“They do a great job of helping patients adapt and manage changes in their health as a result of illness or injury, and we’re proud of the expertise and contribution they make to the health of our patients.”
To learn more about how OT helps, visit www.OTOntario.ca.
