Introduction:
Occupational therapists in acute practice are increasingly likely to work routinely with people in later life who drink alcohol. However, therapists are hesitant to ask older people about drinking when admitted to acute hospital settings due to the complex range of factors that influence alcohol consumption.
Objectives:
This knowledge translation study aimed to evaluate the development of a continuing professional development (CPD) Learn@Lunch programme, designed to enhance awareness and understanding of occupational therapists who work in an acute hospital setting, of drinking alcohol as an occupation in later life.
Method:
Guided by the Promoting Action of Research Implementation in Health Sciences (PARIHS) framework, the CPD programme was developed, and a qualitative evaluation undertaken. This included pre and post focus groups with occupational therapists (n=8) in an acute setting where the programme was delivered, pre and post programme delivery interviews with the research champion, and one interview with the Allied Health Professions (AHP) Service Lead.
Results:
Findings indicate the Learn@Lunch CPD programme enhanced therapist knowledge and understanding of the changing patterns of drinking alcohol in later life. However practical barriers exist impacting how participants perceived the value and delivery of the programme.
Conclusion:
Learn@Lunch was an effective CPD programme and supported enhanced knowledge and awareness of drinking alcohol as an occupation in later life, leading to changes in local acute occupational therapy practice.
Significance to the Occupational Therapy Profession:
Occupation-focused practice requires targeted CPD support in acute practice settings.
Contextual relevant CPD programmes can support changes in occupational therapy practice.