WORKING WRIST SPLINTS AND RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS – OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS' PERCEPTIONS

Background: The aim of this study was to determine OT’s perceptions on the prescription and perceived effectiveness of working wrist splints for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Method: Three focus groups (Morgan &... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
The aim of this study was to determine OT’s perceptions on the prescription and perceived effectiveness of working wrist splints for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Method:
Three focus groups (Morgan & Kreuger 1993) with 16 therapists experienced in the provision of working wrist splints were carried out in Belfast, Derby and Dublin. They lasted approximately 80 minutes and were audio and video taped. Qualitative content analysis was carried out. The data was coded using NVivo software and themes were identified by three researchers.
Results:
The central theme to emerge was that OTs provided a patient centred, complex, unique and customised service. This was informed by four sub-themes: referral and review, assessment, education and self-management and usability of working wrist splints. Themes highlighted that it was essential that a referral reaches the OT department in order that a patient centred, skilled, experienced and customised service was provided. Education was highlighted as essential to facilitating self-management in respect of the condition as a whole.
Conclusion and Application to Practice
The importance of early referral, regardless of the method or referrer, thorough assessment for working wrist splints, a multi-faceted approach to intervention and multiple appointments and review provision were highlighted by therapists as good practice. Patient education was emphasised as essential to facilitate self-management of the condition as a whole. Therapists must take into account the patients’ ability to accept educational strategies in relation to: disease stage, coming to terms with diagnosis and achieving balance between exercise and splinting advice.