Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Following mild traumatic brain injury, people can experience persistent post‐concussion symptoms (PPCS) that lead to the need for rehabilitation, including occupational therapy services, to support recovery. There is, however, limited literature documenting the occupational therapy role in adult PPCS rehabilitation. This study aimed to explore the role of occupational therapy, including the assessments and interventions used, in the rehabilitation of adults with PPCS in Australia and New Zealand.
Methods
A qualitative descriptive research design was employed. Occupational therapists working with adults with PPCS in Australia or New Zealand were recruited via advertisements on professional email listservs and via social media. Semi‐structured interviews were undertaken via videoconference, transcribed verbatim, deidentified, and underwent member checking and reflexive thematic analysis.
Consumer and community involvement
No consumers were involved in the study design or analysis.
Findings
Fifteen occupational therapists were recruited from Australia (
n
= 11) and New Zealand (
n
= 4). The majority were women (
n
= 14). Interviews ranged from 48 to 127 minutes (
M
= 74 minutes), with four main themes identified: timing and reasons for occupational therapy referral; assessments and interventions used in practice; current and future occupational therapy practice opportunities; and occupational therapy practice resources that are utilised or needed.
Conclusion
Given that occupational therapy is increasingly being included in multi‐disciplinary PPCS programs, this research provides evidence of the current and potential future scope of occupational therapy practice in adult PPCS rehabilitation. Further research exploring occupational therapy roles in other countries, and including perspectives of people with PPCS, will be of benefit to guide rehabilitation service design.