Spinal Cord Compression

1
Spinal Cord Compression

• WPH Macmillan Occupational Therapist
• Lesley Crowther

2
SCC Occupational Therapy

• Aim to maintain pt at their optimum level of
  functional independence to enable their maximum
  quality of life
• Concerned with the functional implications of SCC
  symptoms and the psychological impact that loss
  of role and function can have on an individual

3
Occupational Therapy

• National Cancer Rehab Care pathway for MSCC
  recommends referral to OT within 24/48 hours of
  admission.
• Explain role of OT and undertake initial holistic
  assessment.

4
OT - Assessment

• Initial interview
• To establish previous/current level of function
• To discuss home environment
• To discuss their functional roles i.e. father,
  main family earner, carer
• To ascertain what their expectations are of
  treatment outcome and functional ability

5
OT Functional Assessment

• Including physical/cognitive/psychological
  aspects
• Functional Transfers/mobility
• Feeding/drinking
• Personal domestic activities
• Access/Home assessments
• Leisure/hobbies/work activities

6
OT - Rehab

• Set achievable short term goals
• Provide equip for during admission
• Personal/domestic activity retraining
• Fatigue management and pacing
• Working with carers with use provision of
  equip/adaptations
• Management of anxiety relaxation
• Psychological adjustment to function loss

7
Discharge and Post Discharge intervention.

• Support/prepare pt and carers for dc
• Refer for continued rehab
• Help pt optimise functional potential
• Facilitate adjustment to change of ability
• Continual re-assessment of function and home
  environment

8
Conclusion

• OT considers the impact that MSCC symptoms have
  on the persons functional ability. Then together
  problem solve to reduce the impact and prioritise
  what makes that individuals day purposeful to
  maintain quality of life.