For this reflection, I have chosen to use the Kolb’s cycle (1984) to determine how human factors can affect interpersonal teamwork in a multi-disciplinary team (MDT). The Kolb’s cycle (1984) enables me to critically analyse the MDT and reflect upon the role of the Occupational Therapist (OT).
In this reflection, I will be discussing: the role of the OT, the key service delivery role of the MDT, the methods of communication used by the MDT and how the communication was used to enhance and inhibit team working. To maintain confidentiality, the client’s name and clinical setting will not be disclosed due to a breach of confidentiality (Royal college of occupational therapy 2015). …show more content…
For example, the OT’s had both existing patients and new referrals they had to assess and review. When the consultant signposted new referrals, the OTA was expected to conduct standardised mental health and cognition assessments. The OTA also documented the test results onto the system. The results of the test further allowed the OT’s, to support the SU to maintain independence in their home environment. This was achieved by, conducting home assessments and supporting the SU through activity adaptation, according to their functional and cognitive ability. The SU and the carer were informed about the various types of services and equipment they could receive through the service. They also had specialised OT interventions to educate the carers about the implications a mental illness can have on a patient’s abilities to complete activities of daily living …show more content…
Within the clinical setting, there were numerous forms of communication used to interact with the MDT. Primarily the MDT used emails, face to face meetings and an electronic reporting system named PARIS. In addition, a printed rota was used for the MDT specifying the members who are required to be present.
The key service delivery role of the MDT at the placement was to collaboratively work to ensure client-centred practice is maintained. The role of the MDT consisted of many tasks and they were presenting initial assessments for new referrals, conducting formulation and medication reviews to safeguard the ongoing treatment and interventions. Other key service delivery roles of the MDT involved, being responsible to write the post-diagnostic reports, explaining the details of the diagnosis and signposting the carers to helpful resources.
It is important, that the roles within the MDT are explained and clarified with the interdisciplinary team. Clarifying roles is significant because practitioners from other disciplines are required to maintain their professional roles. They are also expected to practice a co-operative approach to solve a common problem. If this is not maintained ‘professional identity is being eroded’ by other members of the team. (Ford 1995) and (Onyett