Evidence-Based Practice - A critical discussion of occupational therapy practice with a focus on assessments

Placement Setting: The team is based in an NHS teaching PCT. Practice takes place in the community and/or in the hospital gym or therapy rooms. +++ Overarching philosophy of care/NHS frameworks/standards: The overarching philosophy of care is based on the Social Model of Disability (Oliver 1983) and the empowerment of the client in enhancing his/her level of independence, which may consequently prevent hospital admission. A key paper used in this setting is the NSF for Older People (Department of Health 2001) particularly its second standard: client-centred care. +++ Client population & health needs (age range, ethnicity, service user profile): The profile of a typical service user describes an adult experiencing a long-term neurological condition. Health needs vary but typically include the need for adaptive equipment in order to improve self-care skills.