Article

The aim of this study was to describe Swedish occupational therapists'
experiences of encountering ethical dilemmas in rehabilitation and strategies
they used to handle the situations. Twelve occupational therapists who work with
adults with developmental disabilities were interviewed using a semi-structured
interview design. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The
results showed that ethical dilemmas were common in the occupational therapists'
daily work within rehabilitation. Many situations that created ethical dilemmas
were related to occupational therapists who worked with clients and their
relatives, and other healthcare providers. The results showed further that
occupational therapists found it difficult to make decisions and to optimize
clients' participation in decision-making, to set limits and act professionally,
and to best handle the situation for the client and avoid ethical dilemmas. This
study indicates the importance of illustrating experiences of ethical dilemmas
within occupational therapy praxis and the meaning of discussing ethical dilemmas
with different healthcare providers to reach a divided view of the client in
order to develop successful and healthy strategies that will optimize the
rehabilitation of clients with developmental disabilities.

Langue : ANGLAIS