American Journal of Occupational Therapy · 1993 · 11 citations · 0 references
EngineeringGerontological NursingOccupational HealthPhysical TherapyRehabilitationOccupational MedicinePatient PositioningPositioningSeating DesignSeating SystemsAgitationComfort PositioningCustom Seating SystemsLeast Restrictive InterventionLeast Restrictive PlacementLeast Restrictive PracticePatient Positioning AssistancePositioning Comfort Assessment
Occupational therapy intervention in the area of seating and positioning may play a vital role in improving the quality of life for nursing home residents. This case report indicates that appropriately positioning a client may increase comfort, decrease agitation, and decrease the administration of mood-altering drugs. Research would help to delineate the effects of appropriate seating systems, both to ensure reimbursement and to ensure that all who might benefit from positioning intervention receive the appropriate services. OBRA 1987 regulations are forcing nursing homes to assess residents for the least restrictive restraints. These assessments offer a golden opportunity for occupational therapists to become involved in determining the most appropriate seating systems and to conduct research on their benefits.