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The main focus in the acute setting is not rehabilitation, but medically stabilizing the patient. If ordered by the attending doctor, you will evaluate and treat for the (usually) short days the patient is in this setting. Duration of hospitalization is typically two to three days up to a few weeks or months for medically complex patients (Stromsdorfer & Shoshanah, p. 4, 2022).
Reference: Stromsdorfer, S & Shoshanah, S. (2022). Occupational Therapy Intervention in Acute Care. My OT Spot.
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In acute care, the occupational therapist (OT) is responsible for making important decisions that affect what will happen after the patient is discharged from acute care. The evaluation, clinical observation, and ability to use training in all areas of OT are important.
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Mobilizing the patient
Education and recommendations on adaptive equipment and home modifications
Discharge planning with patient and caregivers
Safety and infection control
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In acute care, you may have 6-10 evaluations in one day along with treatments. Focus on quick interventions that take place in the patient’s room.
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Get assistance with deciding where the patient should go next - home, sub-acute rehab, long-term acute care, or skilled nursing, or acute inpatient rehabilitation.