A Strategy to Improve Nurse/Occupational Therapist Communication for Managing Patients with Splints

Abstract

This article explores the reasons for the observation that nurses and occupational therapists managed the aftercare of patients with splints differently. An action research stance was adopted, which enabled the two professions to identify several problems collaboratively and to develop a strategy for change that was mutually beneficial. As a result of the study, a training programme in the aftercare of splints was implemented for nurses, increasing their involvement in caring for splints. In addition, ward-based resources were produced to supplement information regarding the aftercare of splints given by occupational therapists to nurses. An evaluation of the programme encouraged further discussion between the two professions, whose members were then able to move forward and work more collaboratively.