Making a Difference, Teamwork and Coping: The Meaning of Practice in Acute Physical Settings

Abstract

Occupational therapists in acute physical settings face challenges and tensions between their holistic professional values and the often reductionist focus of their work. A hermeneutic phenomenological investigation explored the meaning of practice for nine occupational therapists in an acute National Health Service trust in England. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using a framework for interpretive analysis of phenomenological data. Critical reflective evaluation enables readers to judge the quality and relevance of the research. The three main themes described in this paper – making a difference, gaining strength from the team and coping strategies – illustrate the tensions, stresses and rewards of practice. The occupational therapists wanted to make a difference to their patients' lives. Although they could not always do as much as they would have liked, making an immediate difference by the provision of equipment was rewarding. Relationships with multidisciplinary colleagues generated both stress and satisfaction, but membership of the occupational therapy team enabled the therapists to cope with difficult situations. Effective coping strategies included acknowledging the realities of the acute setting and using reflection to identify those aspects providing value and satisfaction. Overall, the therapists experienced pride, excitement, reward and enjoyment from their work in the acute setting and were convinced of the value and importance of their role.