3. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) - All submissions

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Expert opinions on best practice for the occupational therapy management of visual perceptual deficits in adults post stroke
(2013) Reed, Bronwyn Joy
Visual perceptual impairment is a common consequence of stroke which may affect all areas of occupational performance. The evidence for the management of these deficits in occupational therapy is not clear. The purpose of this qualitative study was therefore to determine the expert opinion for best practice in the management of visual perceptual deficits in adults post stroke in the South African context. Interviews with eight expert occupational therapists indicated that a lack of clarity exists in this area of clinical practice. Findings indicate this is a complex area of practice where management needs to be focussed on occupation based therapy for the individual patient in their context. The use of standardised and non-standardised assessments and compensation verses remediation in intervention must be individually determined, and the use of a “top down” approach was considered preferable. This study presents the first step in the development of clinical guidelines for management of this deficit in occupational therapy in South Africa.