COPM and Interviews

Fieldwork starts on Monday. I am so excited, but I am also nervous. I am nervous that I won't know anything. I am also worried that I won't get there at time. I have to be there by 7 am, and that includes going through security. The earliest class we have this semester is at 9 am, and that is only on Fridays. I'm sure it will be fine. This must be what it is like to be an adult. There are two other girls from my class going to the same site, so at least some friendly faces will be around.

We also have to assess a patient by using the COPM (Canadian Occupational Performance Measure). We practiced in class on a classmate, and watched a video, but giving it to a patient is going to be a whole different experience. The OT interviews the client to learn about their strengths and weaknesses. The client then rates all the activities discussed on their importance on a scale from 1 to 10. The client then chooses 3-5 activities that they would like to improve. The client then rates these activities on a scale from 1-10 on performance and satisfaction. The later in intervention the ratings should be taken again to see if there is improvement. There is no norm for this assessment, but it does measure if a person is more satisfied with their performance. I think this would be a great first assessment because you get to learn about the client and what is important to them.

Last week also started the first week of interviews at my school. Is it weird that I was nervous when I saw the signs? It is really strange to see people in suits all over our floor. This year they started putting current students in the individual interviews. I can't commit to being there for every interview, but the students who are involved seem to be enjoying it.  I'm sure we will have a great crop for next year. Seeing the interviewees reminded me why I chose my school. I wasn't going to go here originally, but I was so impressed with the staff and facilities I changed my mind. That is not an easy thing to do. That is why you should always tour the facility before you chose!

Eating Alone

This year my school is integrating current students in the interview process for new students. I think this is a great idea. Unfortunately, I can't participate because I can't be there for all the interviews. However, it was shared that a student suggested asking potential students when was the last time they ate alone. This question would help evaluate  how confident a person is as well as how concerned they are by what others think of them. They have chosen not to use the question for a variety of reasons, but there is some food for thought. Would you eat by yourself?

AMPS

Today in class we learned about the AMPS. This is an assessment that is completely occupation based. It looked really cool, and reminded me what occupational therapy is all about. It does seem hard to grade. My point is proven by the fact that you have to go to a week long training course to give the test. However, once you do that and give the test few times you send in the scores. Then they will send you back a personal calibration code. You send in basic scores, but then they do some analysis and return scores that say if the client can live independently and break it down into motor and process issues. Tomorrow we learn the COPM. We will see if I like that also. I hear good things though.