Hi again, Ron! I found this sitting in my drafts box, so it doesn't really consider your update, but might still be useful:
Ron Carson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > We've already identified her initial goal; and that is > to > be able to > independently transfer without a sliding board. Good one! Partial goals might be: Transferring lower level, same level, higher level. Being right now in a power chair means most likely that she sits much higher than she will in the long run. Also, no wheel to bypass in the transfer, but maybe other issues (steering box and armrests - how are they moved?). Will she be alone sometimes - then might want a cell phone that sticks with her - until you get through transfer floor to chair:-) > The previous rehab goals were primarily to get her to > sit > independently > and to assist with transfers. I don't think they worked > on > self-care or > home making skills. Makes me wonder if it was actually an SCI-rehab she was in. BTW, I've heard of people often going back for a new SCI-rehab stay after they got out of their TLSO or halo. But maybe the insurance issue hinders that.... (I'm also concerned about the skills of that rehab, if they allowed eating up all her rehab time while she was not in a state to fully benefit from it - re the TLSO)-: > I will address the issues of sexuality but will need to > refer her to > someone more appropriate - not sure who that might be. Should have been addressed in depth in rehab too. Being with peers makes a huge difference. But for now, I think you can safely trust the PLISSIT model: "Permission, Limited Information, Specific Suggestions, and Intensive Therapy". Referral might be needed at step 3 or 4, depending on your knowledge and skills. But doing it earlier might send the message that "you think there's something wrong" (with either her, or with talking about sexuality). About Permission I imagine you finding ways to show her that you're willing to talk about it - showing that it's natural to care about it. I also imagine that what's mostly "in her way" right now is bowels, bladder and body image. Also - her husband might be afraid to hurt her physically during intercourse. There are videos available - she may have already seen them in rehab, but maybe not with her husband? Female sexuality after SCI was "top subject" in the Danish SCI org last year, so please ask away! susanne -- Options? www.otnow.com/mailman/options/otlist_otnow.com Archive? www.mail-archive.com/[email protected] ************************************************************************************** Enroll in Boston University's post-professional Master of Science for OTs Online. Gain the skills and credentials to propel your career. www.otdegree.com/otn **************************************************************************************
