Application of key health care concepts in the development of a paediatric upper limb hypertonicity surgery clinic

• Published in: Australian occupational therapy journal Vol. 49; no. 3; pp. 155 - 162
• Main Authors: Collis, Dianne, Rae, Margaret
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Science Pty 01-09-2002
• Subjects: Acquired; acquired brain injury; Brain injuries; Cerebral palsy; health care delivery; Occupational therapy; Paediatrics; Surgery; Upper limbs
• ISSN: 0045-0766; 1440-1630
• DOI: 10.1046/j.1440-1630.2002.00307.x

The task of establishing and managing a paediatric Upper Limb Hypertonicity Surgery Clinic provided an opportunity to investigate key concepts in health care delivery in order to enhance the quality of the service for patients and their families. Several concepts were found to be fundamental to effective service development and delivery: client‐centred approach, collaboration, continuum of care, evidence‐based practice and outcome evaluation. This report describes the processes and protocols of the Upper Limb Hypertonicity Surgery Clinic and discusses both the positive and challenging aspects of applying key health care concepts in clinical practice.