Last week on the forum, discussions delved into practical applications that enhance the daily work of occupational therapists. Members explored how competency-based continuing education could replace traditional clock hours, sparking a lively debate on professional development. Conversations also revolved around practical tools and strategies that improve patient care, such as low-cost grip aids and sensory-friendly waiting rooms. The introduction of the first OT assessment using Rasch analysis generated curiosity and interest among practitioners.
This Week’s Hot Topics
Competency-based CE, not clock hours
The idea of shifting from clock hours to competency-based continuing education has resonated with many. It promises more relevant learning tailored to real-world application. Read more here
Favorite low-cost grip aids for meal prep
Sharing low-cost solutions for grip aids, this thread offers practical advice for making meal preparation easier for clients. It’s a goldmine of creative, budget-friendly tips. Read more here
First OT assessment to use Rasch
This groundbreaking assessment tool using Rasch analysis is generating buzz. It’s a new approach to evaluation that could enhance the precision of assessments. Read more here
Where OT makes the biggest impact at work
A meaningful conversation about where occupational therapy has the greatest influence in workplace settings. It’s a thoughtful exploration of our field’s potential. Read more here
Favorite handle build-ups
Members discuss their go-to handle build-ups, sharing various products and techniques that enhance grip and comfort for clients. Read more here
CE courses with proven clinical impact
This topic compiles recommendations for continuing education courses that have demonstrably improved clinical outcomes. It’s a great resource for professional growth. Read more here
Making waiting rooms sensory-friendly
A discussion on transforming waiting rooms into sensory-friendly environments, offering practical solutions to make these spaces more comfortable for patients. Read more here
Thank you for being part of our community. Your contributions help make this space valuable for everyone. Looking forward to more engaging discussions in the week ahead.
Switched our CE to competency check-offs last month — one 15‑min observed transfer and a quick SOAP note beat 3 hours of clock hours, @AishaOT. > rooms sensory-friendly A discussion on transforming waiting rooms into sensory-friendly environments, offering practical solutions to make these spaces more comfortable for patients. We added a $50 dimmable lamp and a small fidget bin; calmer starts shaved about 10 minutes off session overruns.
Tried a 10‑minute “show me” check for splint fabrication — one observed thumb spica and a quick chart review taught more than a whole afternoon of clock hours, @AishaOT… We anchored it to NBCOT’s self-assessment levels and had to calibrate raters to keep it fair; biggest caveat is some state boards still want hours: https://www.nbcot.org/Practice/Study-Tools/self_assessment.
We piloted mini check-offs where a peer observes a single ADL skill — like coaching sock‑aid donning — and scores a tiny rubric, which beat our old modules for real carryover, @kate_perry. It works, but we had to calibrate raters with a quick monthly huddle so it didn’t become about “grading style.” Feels more like a driving test than a road‑trip lecture, and our team remembers the skills.
I’ve started having my students demonstrate assessments in real time, like balance activities, rather than just theoretical learning. It’s like learning to ride a bike: you can read all about it, but nothing beats getting on the saddle yourself. @AishaOT, do you think this hands-on approach is the key to boosting confidence in practice?