4 answers
Naomi
Student
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Asked
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What makes a good occupational therapist?
I'm looking into occupational therapy as a career and I just want to know if it is the right fit for me. #medicine #occupational-therapy #occupational-health
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4 answers
Estelle Archer
Gynecologist
1321
Answers
United States
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Estelle’s Answer
The best OT's that I have known have always put their patients first. They have patience and are motivated to help each individual person. They set goals and try to help each patient achieve them.
Corinne Rubin
Occupational Therapist
20
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Silver Spring, Maryland
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Corinne’s Answer
As an OT for 30 years , you need to be 1) a life long student, it is a field that is changing, doing more research and you have to keep up with evidence based interventions.
The rest is easier, creative, a good problem solver and analyst, team player, empathetic, hands on, don't mind to get dirty...........................some days are tough! some days are just the best ever..................try shadow an OT in a clinic or hospital to get an idea if it is something you would like to pursue....personality is only a part of it.
Good luck,
William Cox, M.D.
Medical Practice Professional
37
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William’s Answer
I cannot be of help to you on this topic. I have no education or experience as an occupational therapist.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Naomi,
Key Traits for an Effective Occupational Therapist
Empathy and Compassion: An exceptional occupational therapist should have a deep sense of empathy and compassion for their patients. They should strive to understand the obstacles their patients face and offer assistance in a kind and empathetic way.
Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is a cornerstone of occupational therapy. Therapists must be adept at conveying information clearly to their patients, their families, and their fellow healthcare professionals to ensure the successful execution of care and treatment plans.
Problem-Solving Skills: Occupational therapists frequently assist patients dealing with intricate problems. The ability to think critically, analyze situations, and devise innovative solutions is crucial for delivering effective therapy.
Patience and Persistence: Progress in occupational therapy can sometimes be gradual, demanding patience from both the therapist and the patient. A top-notch occupational therapist should be unyielding in their approach, consistently working towards achieving the goals set for their patients.
Adaptability: Each patient is distinct, with varying needs and abilities. Occupational therapists must be flexible in their approach, customizing treatment plans to accommodate each individual’s specific needs.
Professionalism: Maintaining high levels of professionalism is paramount for occupational therapists. This encompasses preserving confidentiality, respecting boundaries, and following ethical guidelines in all interactions with patients.
Continuous Learning: The realm of occupational therapy is continually evolving with new studies and techniques being discovered. An exceptional occupational therapist should be dedicated to lifelong learning, keeping abreast of the latest developments in the field.
Collaboration Skills: Occupational therapists often collaborate with a multidisciplinary team including doctors, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals. Robust collaboration skills are vital for productive teamwork and comprehensive patient care.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Referenced:
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA): The AOTA is a premier organization offering resources, education, and advocacy for occupational therapists. Their guidelines and publications provide invaluable insights into the best practices in the field.
World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT): The WFOT is a global organization that establishes standards for occupational therapy practice worldwide. Their research and publications play a key role in shaping the profession’s standards globally.
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain & Process (4th Edition): This framework, published by the AOTA, outlines the fundamental concepts of occupational therapy practice. It acts as a guiding light for occupational therapists in providing top-quality care to their patients.
May God Bless You,
JC.
Key Traits for an Effective Occupational Therapist
Empathy and Compassion: An exceptional occupational therapist should have a deep sense of empathy and compassion for their patients. They should strive to understand the obstacles their patients face and offer assistance in a kind and empathetic way.
Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is a cornerstone of occupational therapy. Therapists must be adept at conveying information clearly to their patients, their families, and their fellow healthcare professionals to ensure the successful execution of care and treatment plans.
Problem-Solving Skills: Occupational therapists frequently assist patients dealing with intricate problems. The ability to think critically, analyze situations, and devise innovative solutions is crucial for delivering effective therapy.
Patience and Persistence: Progress in occupational therapy can sometimes be gradual, demanding patience from both the therapist and the patient. A top-notch occupational therapist should be unyielding in their approach, consistently working towards achieving the goals set for their patients.
Adaptability: Each patient is distinct, with varying needs and abilities. Occupational therapists must be flexible in their approach, customizing treatment plans to accommodate each individual’s specific needs.
Professionalism: Maintaining high levels of professionalism is paramount for occupational therapists. This encompasses preserving confidentiality, respecting boundaries, and following ethical guidelines in all interactions with patients.
Continuous Learning: The realm of occupational therapy is continually evolving with new studies and techniques being discovered. An exceptional occupational therapist should be dedicated to lifelong learning, keeping abreast of the latest developments in the field.
Collaboration Skills: Occupational therapists often collaborate with a multidisciplinary team including doctors, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals. Robust collaboration skills are vital for productive teamwork and comprehensive patient care.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Referenced:
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA): The AOTA is a premier organization offering resources, education, and advocacy for occupational therapists. Their guidelines and publications provide invaluable insights into the best practices in the field.
World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT): The WFOT is a global organization that establishes standards for occupational therapy practice worldwide. Their research and publications play a key role in shaping the profession’s standards globally.
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain & Process (4th Edition): This framework, published by the AOTA, outlines the fundamental concepts of occupational therapy practice. It acts as a guiding light for occupational therapists in providing top-quality care to their patients.
May God Bless You,
JC.