Mock Interview Reflection

 

• How do you feel the interview went overall? 
• Overall, I thought the interview went smoothly and I was confident with my answers. There were a few questions that I could have better prepared beforehand, but I was happy with the way that it unfolded, overall.  
  
• How did you prepare for the interview?
• To prepare for the interview, I looked over my resume and cover letter. I thought about instances where my experiences could be relevant and discussed in an interview. I looked over the resources that Dr. Lancaster shared with us  on "Challenging Interview Questions." I tried to not overthink and overpreare for this interview to lessen the anxiety that may come with the preparation.
  
• What, if anything, went differently than you expected?
• With the interview being virtual, I had a difficult time with non-verbal communication such as facial expression or pauses between responses. It was sometimes difficult for me to understand how she recieved an answer and I did not expect that. I also had a hard time with the "suspension of disbelief" aspect of this interview. The interviewer took her role in the scenario very seriously. When I asked specific questions she answered them very clearly and explained the unique value of the clinic. This aspect made it difficult for me to decipher what was real and what was "mock" for the purposes of the interview. I think the practicality and preparedness of the interview made a difference and helped make this scenario beneficial for future experience!
  
• What's something you would change if you could go through this process again (or something you'll do differently when you're in a real-life interview situation)?
• Next time, I will be more prepared for specific questions such as "what salary do you plan to make?" This question was something that I should have considered ahead of time but was caught off guard in this situation. I also want to make sure that I do research on the specific facility and ask questions that are relevant to the area of practice.
  
• What's something you learned during this process that may be helpful to you as you prepare to enter the workforce as an OT practitioner?
• In this process, I learned that virtual interviews may look different than in-person. The interviewer made a note that virtual communication is something that may be prevelant and important in our line of work for a while. I learned that it's important to look at the person but also look into the camera in order to "make eye contact." It is also helpful to take note of your background and be sure that all technical setbacks are handled beforehand. In this process, I also learned to be prepared for questions that make you step out of your comfort zone. Questions related to salary and hopes for my life in the future were not what I expected but something I should prepare to answer. I want to not only feel comfortable sharing about my clinical experience but also transparent and vulnerable in questions related to other qualities that a company may be seeking.
  

Self-Portrait of a Leader

2020 Drawing

My glyph drawn in 2019 compared to my glyph in 2020 are very similar. The main difference is that my newest glyph includes glasses- these were an indicator of holding many leadership roles. I believe that in my time at UTHSC, I have experienced opportunities to serve in leadership through Departmental Orientation Chair, SOTA board, and RKS. These responsibilities have widened by experience and perception of holding leadership positions.

Internal Vs. External Locus of Control

After completing some surface-level research and gaining a basic understanding of locus of control, I was interested to take the quiz to determine what type of motivation I carry. After reading the description of internal focus( tend to be motivated by their actions, in control of their exercise and eating habits, driven in school), I felt pretty confident I would fall very close to the most extreme of this category. External locus of control tends to be more likely to conform, to follow, or to be carefree. Much to my surprise- I fell somewhere in the middle of the continuum but closer to external locus of control. I did some reflecting on this surprising result and realized that while I perceive myself to be a bit of a “control freak,” my faith and religion weighed heavily in my results to the test. Spirituality and values, as we have learned, are just as valuable in intervention planning as body structures or functions.

            My results are an important lesson in considering the “whole client” when  treating individuals. A client that has an internal locus of control might ask “what can I do more of to improve?” or have a “let’s get this done” attitude. When treating these clients, I want to be aware that they take ownership and responsibility for their actions very seriously. Clients that have had a stroke or significant accident, might blame themselves in the recovery. They might be upset with themselves if they are not progressing and want to work harder to improve. I want to remind clients with an internal locus of control that while we can work hard, perform repetition, or practice over and over, the body takes time and energy to naturally heal. We do not have full control over the way that our body recovers  after surgery, regains abilities after a stroke, or heals after an injury. As a practitioner, I will focus on the strengths and motivations of these individuals while not allowing them to misplace blame on themselves in difficult or emotional times.

            A client with external locus of control might be more likely to say “whatever you tell me!” or ask for more sessions when their discharge is approaching.  This client might believe that the accident or illness was completely out of their hands and have the advantage of being more relaxed or receptive while healing. Unlike the individual with an internal locus of control, this client may be less likely to take responsibility and initiative in their therapy. In treating individuals with external locus of control, I want to set them up for success by reinforcing their value and responsibility in gaining independence. I want to remind them that it is a team effort and that they can take charge of what they do at home to make gains. 

Sensory Processing Simulation

Overall, I think that I did well on this simulation but I think there is definite room for improvement. I felt that I was careful with my word choice, used clear examples for explanation, and worked to make the mom feel at ease and empowered. If I could re-do this simulation, I would prepare more for questions that could possibly be asked. In my scenario, the mom asked how soon she should begin the sensory diet and what to tell his teachers at school. These were two questions that I had not necessarily put much thought into beforehand but wish that I had. Before the next sim, I would like to think through potential questions that might be posed more thoroughly. I think that as a healthcare practitioner, you can convey that you truly care but allowing time for pauses. This allows the parents to process what they are being told and time to think about questions or uncertainties. I think that it also makes a difference in the way that you care if you are prepared when talking to parents. I think that a parent feels comforted and trusting when you are using examples of a child's behavior just based on their referral notes. Knowing that child's quirks, needs, and strengths will allow you to incorporate those into the conversation and make it seem natural and genuine. In the next simulation, I would like to allow more time for quiet pauses. I saw a shift in my child's parent when I let her know that she is so capable and knows her child best. I believe that empowering the parent and allowing them time to talk through a diagnosis is just as important as treating the child. Building confidence is an appropriate role for OT to play and I will carry that with me, forward.  I am grateful for this experience will reflect on  this experience n my next simulation and into practice.

Posivite Care with Teepa Snow

        In this epidsode of Foxcast OT Podcast, Teepa Snow, an OTR/L shares insight into her specialization, dementia. The title of the podcast is "The Positive Approach to Dementia Care." Teepa treats individuals, coaches caregivers, hosts conferences, and travels the country promoting a possitive approach to treating individuals with dementia.
       The three biggest tips that Teepa shared were these: Support, Environment, and Ques. For individuals living with dementia they may not have the capacity to understand the disease. So essentially, trying to explain that parts of their brain are dying is only more confusing and futile. We can make suggestions and alter the environment that they are living so that they can best be supported. She suggests the importance of visual and physical queing rather than verbal as several words can become mixed up. Instead of saying, let's get up and go to the therapy gym you can use your hands to signal getting up and point to the therapy gym.
         Teepa refers to different stages of dementia as gems. She uses the Allen Cognitive level test but instead of numbers, she sees clients as "diamonds, emeralds, ambers, rubies, and pearls." As the last stage is a pearl, you do not have the beauty you once had and may be living in a shell of reflexes. A pearl may not always shine and a pearl needs support to get out of the shell. However, if a pearl is supported, they can still play a role. If a pearl has the right environment, it can still be beautiful. A pearl is not the diamond that it once was but has unique and endearing qualities to share.
          The biggest takeaway,to me, was listening to the words that Teepa encourages using in caring for individuals with dementia. Instead of saying, "you're not going to get better, Jimmy so we have to get on medicine", you can say "where would you like to keep your medicine, Jimmy?" Instead of telling an individual that they are not allowed to drive, you can suggest "how about I drive today". Sentences with many words run together and to these individuals. "Do not go out the door" and "go out the door" might seem the same. We can avoid these situations be eleminating "not" from our conservations. "Let's stay inside" might be more affective. Teepa also encourages avoiding the word "remember." By asking if they remember the exercise you did last week, you are only reminding what little they do remember. Quite frankly, they do not, so let's just avoid asking.
          I think that this podcast was very beneficial to hear because it addresses topics that can only be learned through experience. Teepa shares wisdom that she has gained in twenty years of supporting individuals with dementia. As an occupational therapy student, it is so important to put on a coat of empathy and truly consider the whole situation. While their brain is changing and they may not know the words that you express, a person living with dementia has feelings, emotions, volition, and motivation. They are human beings with hearts and it is important to see them this way. This podcast gave me a new understanding of dementia and an always-welcome reminder of the power of positivity.

McKay, Jimmy.(2019, May 23.) FOXcast OT: The Positive Approach to Dementia Care with Tepa Snow. [Audio Podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/fox-rehabilitation/foxcast-pt/e/60963029.

Innovators Statement- OT (q)- Tips

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            In brainstorming and working on this assignment, I took a moment to reflect on what it would be like to be in Susan's position. Susan is a 55 year-old mother who was diagnosed with ALS. I thought about my mother who is close to Susan's age and is also an elementary school teacher. I thought about the giant that is ALS and the feelings associated with such a disabling and progressive disease. This assignment gave me a perspective of what would be meaningful to an individual that is living a life with ALS and the importance of involving the entire family. Her husband and children are going through a time of change and we, as OT's, can help Susan to express her feelings and support her loved ones.

Two scrapbook pages made using paint and q-tips

             The average prognosis for individuals with ALS is 23-52 months and it is common for individuals to lose speech abilities. Using the q-tips to scrapbook will give Susan the chance to express herself. This activity is allowing Susan to reflect on her life as a mother and wife while creating work that makes her proud. Creating scrapbook pages will promote function in her upper extremities and will conserve energy by designing paper, not spending time at the craft store. As she moves her arm from paint to paper and grips the Q-tip, Susan will be maintaining range of motion in the upper extremities and grasp in fingers.
            Going forward, after completing this project, I have gained an appreciation for supporting the needs of an individual with ALS, the challenges that they might face, and the impact that the disease can have on families. I now know to think outside the box, knowing that something as simple as a q-tip can be a useful tool in treatment. As a therapist, I will spend time getting know my client's, especially those with a progressive diagnosis, to meet their needs the best that I can. I will consider their emotional concerns, not just physical. I will explain their disability but highlight their ability. I am grateful for a chance to try my hand in the topic of treatment and look forward to learning more.

"OT, Stem Cells, and Stroke"

In this podcast, OT Potential, Sarah Lyon explores an article that was named the #3 occupational therapy related journal article. Sarah, an OTR/L, explains the research that this article explores and how that might have an impact on the profession of occupational therapy. I chose this article because I have an interest in strokes. Strokes are a part of my OT origin story as I was first introduced to occupational therapy after my grandfather suffered from a left-side ischemic stroke.
This podcasts explains the development of medical science in regards to stem cell therapy after strokes. Sarah explains that the he stem cells that this research is presenting is not the embryonic stem cell research that has caused great controversy but cells from an individuals' own body. Research is being done to suggest that cells can be injected into areas of the brains that have been damaged and create new pathways. This has been practiced on animals and is now being tested for adverse side affects in humans. It is believed that this could be common and available practice within the next 5-10 years.... just in time for our cohort to be joining the working community as occupational therapists.
This research is important because it shows that injecting cells into damaged areas is not as effective without the use of therapeutic movement. While science can support neuroplasticity, as I have discussed in previous posts, movement is crucial for reforming the neural pathways. This is where OT shines in this possible treatment. Research will continue to be pushed to learn what type of therapy and how much should be given.
Cell based therapy can also play a role for clients that have suffered from a stroke and reached a "chronic stroke phase." Sarah defines this as a client that suffered a stroke more than 6 months ago and have not shown improvement in 2 months. These clients will reach a plateau and might even be discharged from OT because we cannot prove that it is necessary or making improvements. The possibility of cell based therapy and it's combination with movement and physical therapy could play a huge role in the lives of these clients. Having this medical intervention as a possibility would increase the hope for many individuals that have suffered from a stroke and encourage the role of OT in the process.
I think that the OT Potential Podcast is a great resource for students because it breaks down important and sometimes daunting journal articles into relatable and interesting information. This post is similar to a recent post that I wrote about cell therapy intervention in spinal cord injuries and the incredible impact that it could make in rehabilitation. I have an interest in neurological damage and rehabilitation and the Neuro Note assignments have allowed me to explore amazing breakthroughs and difficult truths of this topic.

Lyon, Sarah.(2019, March 29.) OT Potential Podcast: OT, Stem Cells, and Strokes. [Audio Podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/ot-potential-podcast.

Pillars of Parkinson's Rehab- Neuro Note 2

          The OT Potential Podcast, hosted by Sarah Lyon OTR/L, highlights the 50 most influential journal articles published that are related to Occupational Therapy. Sarah, alongside a research librarian, have worked to feature the articles that can be the best resources for fellow OT's. Sarah explains that about 1,000 articles are posted per year. Sarah and the librarian have narrowed down the 50 "most cited" out of 4,923 articles. Sarah's podcast breaks down the message of each journal article and how it can impact the field of OT.
          The podcast that I chose is called "Pillars of Parkinson's Rehab". The first pillar should come as a confidence booster to OT's. It states that rehabilitation intervention for Parkinson's is most effective when it is "goal-based." That is just a small part of our OT Toolbox that we use everyday and should reassure OT's that are treating client's with Parkinson's that they are probably already on the right track. The journal article outlines mirroring, virtual reality and imagery as helpful to the treatment as well. The pillar that I found most interesting and is seen as the most beneficial relates to exercise. Sarah explains the pillar as "exercise-induced neuroplasticity."
Exercise-induced neuroplasticity is the term that we use to describe the impact hat aerobic activity can make on the progress of a disease. Neuroplasticity is the way that our nervous system can reorganize connections and reroute a message after damage has been made. Dr. Lancaster's visual example of neuroplasticity explains the concept in a realistic way. Imagine you're driving home and see a large pot hole in the road ahead (Memphis drivers, sound familiar?). You can continue driving and come to stop once you hit the pot hole or you can change directions, shift lanes, or make a turn. This is what our signals from the brain are able to do after a neurogenerative disease like Parkinson's has made its mark.
           Sarah explains that research shows that those with Parkinson's that were treated with an intense exercise program, 2 times per day for 5 weeks, showed a significant decrease in a need for medication for 12 months. Levadopa, described as the gold standard medication for Parkinsons, can mask and maintain symptoms but does not hinder the progression of the disease. Exercise however, is proven to slow the progression of the disease and allow individuals to maintain gait, balance, and coordination for longer. The article outlines the benefits of aerobic exercise like dancing, kickboxing, and tai chi. It also provides research pointing to intense and resistance training. Even done just weekly, monthly, or annually, it is shown to better the prognosis of individuals with Parkinsons.
          Had I listened to this podcast before taking this course, I would not have appreciated many of the references such as levadopa, neuroplasticity, dopamine production and motor mirroring. I chose this podcast because it aligns with particular topics that I find interesting. I have always enjoyed running and yoga and have a new-found interest in neurodegenerative diseases. I hope to one day become a certified exercise instructor and am curious about exercise facilities such as "Rock Steady Boxing", designed specficially for individuals facing this disease. I would recommend this podcast to anyone that is pursuing a neuro focus, occupational therapy, or caring for a loved one with Parkinson's. We all know that exercise is good for us but when it is outlined in a way that could slow this disease in it's tracks, it may inspire a certain client or caregiver to think differently!

Reference:
Lyon, Sarah.(2019, July 7.) OT Potential Podcast: Pillars of Parkinson's Rehab. [Audio Podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/ot-potential-podcast.

Joy Life Art Night

The opportunity to create artwork was a joyful experience for our Occupational Therapy Class and for the friends that joined us. The conversation was sweet, the dancing was bold, and the smiles were plenty. I was reminded by a new friend that I made that sometimes the simple questions need to be asked more often. I was asked what I like to do on the weekends, what kinds of things I do with my free time, and where I like to eat in Memphis. It's easy to get wrapped up in the pressure of saying the right thing, avoiding the awkward moments, or knowing the shows or celebrities that everyone's talking about . This new friend reminded me the sweetness of honest conversation and the power in being open and real. I am grateful to be a part of a program that promotes spending time having these sweet conversations and for new friends that welcome us.

Neural Note #1

          This TED Talk by Professor James St. John, "Creating our future with spinal injury therapy" shares the possibility of a surgical procedure that could completely change the world of rehabilitation for Spinal Cord Injuries. Professor St. John is the head of the center for Neurobiology at Griffith University in Australia. There are over 12,000 Spinal Cord Injuries each year in the United States alone and over 300,000 people living with a SCI in the United States. Depending on the severity and level of the injury, individuals that sustain a fall, motor vehicle accident, or athletic injury often spend the duration of their life disabled. They can lose sensation, motor abilities, even the ability to breathe or speak. This setback can leave individuals unable to continue life as they knew it. People of all ages, races, are affected and the prevalance is on the rise. Regaining independence and creating a life of fulfillment and satisfaction is a primary goal of occupational therapy and a big job at that. What if there was a possibility to regain the neural connection where the spinal cord was cut? What if sensation and motor abilities could be regained with a surgical procedure?
           Professor St. John explains that the olfactory cells the line your nose, are essentially killed with each odor they detect. Imagine that, the very job you are designed and made to perform is also what will kills you. As soon the olfactory cells die, new cells are automatically reginerated to take their place. This TED Talk explains the possibility and research that is being done take the olfactory cells that are self reginerating, and place them in the spinal cord. This procedure has been tested in one individual in London and proved to be successful.
          This idea of creating a bridge in the spinal cord is far from becoming a common procedure. It is expensive and invasive. Long term effects are hardly understood and doctors are not trained. To me, there is also a question of ethics. Is it ethical to take stem cells from one area and implant them into another area without the full picture? I chose this TED Talk because I found great fascination in the neurobiology course and the guest lecture about olfactory nerves. This procedure, though far fetched, could make changes in the world of therapy. I would recommend this TED Talk to other students in this course, especially those with an interest in research or neurobiology.

 Reference:
St. John, James. (2018, July). Creating our future with spinal injury therapy. Retrieved from: https://www.ted.com/talks/james_st_john_creating_our_future_with_spinal_cord_injury_therapy 

Restoring Confidence in Mobility

September 2013. My grandfather was showing some impressive bed mobility while recovering from a stroke and I was heading to my senior homecoming dance!

       Mobility is defined as controlled instability. Occupational therapists play a large role in  promoting mobility in individual's that have faced setbacks or weakness. A body is more mobile when the center of gravity is moving, the base of support is smaller, and inappropriate joint motion is controlled.  The Hierarchy of Mobility Skills outlines the order in which you should direct a client to master movement. With each level, the demands of the activity increase and the base of support gets smaller.
          The first phase of mobility is bed mobility. This includes moving up and down the bed, rolling, or sitting up. It is important for the therapist to practice good body mechanics and move the bed to waist level in helping a client in this step. The client will not move independently from the bed until they are able to move within the bed. The client will then continue to transfer to the mat, wheelchair and bed. These become increasingly more difficult because a mat is harder material that provides more stability. A wheelchair has arm rests to and a back rest push off from. A bed is less stable and does not have a hard back. The next step after, bed transfer, is functional ambulation for ADL. This requires the client to be out of bed and on their feet. Their base of support has becomes dramatically smaller in this step. After a client can safely ambulate, they can begin transferring to the tub and toilet. This step requires control of several joints and visual perception. The final three steps support a patient becoming safe in the community. A car transfer might involve transferring from different levels and using a sliding board. Ambulation in the community will present new hazards and control. The final step in the hierarchy of mobility is community driving and mobility. A client that is able to dwell among the community can regain a sense of safety and independence.
        The order of these steps were initially surprising but after spending time in the simulation lab, the steps became more practical to me. These steps not only involve mobility but strength, coordination, and planning. Following these steps to promote mobility can help a client to regain confidence. I believe that fear of transfers to different surfaces ambulation can hinder a patient's recovery. That fear can be diminished by encouraging and teaching clients to move safely. The simulation lab gave me a new perspective to these steps of mobility. I am just a student that has not experienced an injury or weakness and I still felt a sense of uneasiness in the steps when first beginning this lesson. I can now better imagine how it would feel to conquer these steps for an individual that has had had a stroke, a surgery, or spent many days in the hospital. I am grateful for the opportunity to spend time in the simulation center to gain a  hands-on experience in such a valuable lesson.