Title: De-mystifying General Medicine: A Descriptive Analysis of Occupational Therapy and General Medicine. 

Authors:
Rebecca Ozelie, DHS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Nora Harvel, OTDS
Sara Brett, OTDS
Logann Stierle, OTDS
Kelly Dunlay, MS, OTR/L

JACOT Volume 6, Issue 2

Abstract

Background
Occupational therapists in acute care play a significant role in mitigating hospital-related issues and facilitating patients’ reintegration into the community. Despite its importance, research on the role of occupational therapists in acute general medicine units is scarce. This study aims to explore patient populations and services, seeking to improve services through the development of client-centered interventions and programming.
Methodology
A retrospective chart review from January 1 to June 30, 2023, in an urban medical center, examined the diversity of occupational therapy services on a general medicine unit. Data from electronic medical records for 250 patients were analyzed for patient demographics and service utilization.
Results
The average age of the sample was 64.98 years old (SD ±16.33), with a range of 19-100 years old. Patients that were seen for OT on the general medicine unit had an average length of stay of 8.55 days and were seen for an average 3.14 OT sessions. Out of 250 patients, 192 diagnoses were individually collected from the medical record review. These were then consolidated into 18 more broad diagnostic categories, with a predominant representation of Black or African American individuals (44.80%). Occupational therapists performed evaluations of moderate complexity, employing selfcare (23.34, SD ± 36.81) and therapeutic activity (22.60, SD ± 36.94) or intervention.
Discussion
This study highlights the critical role of OTs in acute care general medicine units, revealing the complexity and diversity of conditions they manage. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive clinical skills, cultural humility, efficient time management and effective discharge planning to enhance patient outcomes. This study underscores the value of OTs in acute care and their ability to manage fluctuating patient needs efficiently in a fast-paced environment.