Class Descriptions -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Students will learn theory of assistive technology and application of upper extremity dynamic splinting, prostheses, orthotic devices, computer technology, environmental controls, and specialty areas of practice. This is a designated service-learning course.
In lab, they will apply these principles. Students will also participate in evaluation, treatment planning, and interventions with at least one pediatric client in SLCC's onsite and/or telehealth clinics.
Adult Telehealth and Onsite Clinic Participation Reflection :------------------------------------------------------
Clinic location: 3491 W. Wights Fort Road West Jordan, UT 84088
Leading clinician: Kristen Courtney, COTA/L
Supervising OT: Gabe Byars
I participated in and observed onsite clinic on February 15, 22, and 29 and the telehealth clinic on January 29, February 5 and 12. It really is an incredible experience. The hands-on experience of treating an actual client gave me an opportunity to see in action what we had learned in class. The aspect I think I grew from most was experiencing certain disorders/dysfunction in person. I hadn't really felt what a spastic muscles feels like; when we're working together in class, we are mimicking dysfunction. During clinic, however, we are dealing with the actual dysfunction, and treating spasticity is hard work!! The limb just doesn't move like I would expect it to, and treatment really requires me to take on a different perspective and problem-solve from different angles. Additionally, we are interacting with a real person's feelings about their situation and abilities, which requires more consciousness than practicing with a classmate. In clinic, we are dealing with a actual day-to-day struggles, goals, and fears. I also watched a client improve in range of motion after an upper body PNF pattern session, and preparing for that session helped me learn what it feels like to guide a client through those steps. Treatment planning also gave me the opportunity to critically think through the needs of the client and to practice clinical reason. 45 minutes goes very quickly, and one really doesn't have time to waste. I realized that good treatment planning helps me to both prepare for possible interpersonal events and to use evidence-based interventions effectively. Additionally, the clinic provides the perfect environment for practice with thinking on your feet. People's moods and needs change pretty much daily, so a good practitioner must think on their feet and direct the session effectively.
I've built on all of these skills throughout the past two semesters. However, it was humbling to realize that I still have a bit to go before I am fully confident in my skills as a clinician. I really enjoy the physical dysfunction side of OT, and I feel comfortable there, but I still have so much to learn! I will use treatment planning and SOAP note skills daily in the field, although in a little different way. Interpersonal skills are something I will use in every aspect of my career and personal life. I want to learn more about neuro and apply that as I develop treatment plans in the future. I look forward to next semester's clinics!