Page 104 - Handbook of Electronic Assistive Technology

Chapter 4 • Assessment and Outcomes 91

Table 4-2 Typical Information Gathered

Factor Question
Accommodation Type of accommodation, e.g., single or two storey, steps to front door/steps
inside the home
Rented, owned, adapted
Layout
Living with family/carers, support staff
Employment/school Identify all environments where the activity might take place (e.g., respite services)
Professionals involved in care Local teams/services/doctors/therapists
Equipment used Other equipment in place which might impact on possible solutions
Diagnosis and medical issues All health and long-term condition needs affecting the client and the possible
impact of medication on their function
Mobility Ambulant for how far and on which surfaces or using which mobility aids

Some services have extended referral forms requesting details of:

• Sensory abilities.
• Cognition.
• Communication skills.
• Upper limb movement.
• Solutions trialled to date and reasons for failure.

Other services might gather this information at assessment. There is a line to be drawn
between gathering enough information such that the correct team can be drawn together
and determining whether the purpose of the referral can be achieved, but not so much
that referrers are put off applying.

Assessment Time

Many services are pressed for time, therefore often short assessment slots are offered in
which to gather the information they need and develop a plan to meet the client’s needs.
Some centres set aside additional time for new referrals reverting to shorter slots for review
sessions. The time needed will be dependent on many factors such as the range of issues
you are discussing, the ability of the user to communicate their needs, the expectation of
the client and family and the capacity of the client to participate in any assessment exer-
cises you might have.
Some services collect information from the referral form and may then have a dis-
cussion with relevant stakeholders (e.g., teachers, parents, other services) and minmise
options based on this information before meeting with the client. Others have large assess-
ment meetings with all key individuals and allow the process to develop.
At the start of any assessment it is useful to have a proforma to go through, which
ensures you gather all the information you need, and it is recorded. Goals of the clients as
well as key physical measurements such as ranges of movement might be recorded. This