Collaboration & Conflict Resolution

What is intraprofessional collaboration in OT

Collaboration between OT and OTA to provide quality care and achieve common goals

What is interprofessional collaboration in healthcare

Different professionals (OT, PT, nurse, doctor, etc.) working together to deliver coordinated, client-centered care

What are the main responsibilities of the OT in intraprofessional teams

Evaluates clients, creates intervention plans, directs implementation, measures outcomes, and supervises OTA and aides

What are the main responsibilities of the OTA in intraprofessional teams

Implements selected interventions, records client progress, communicates with OT, and contributes to discharge planning

How can an OT and OTA build a strong working relationship

Develop trust, communicate regularly, respect roles, and work toward shared goals

What makes intraprofessional collaboration successful

Clear communication, mutual respect, shared decision-making, and understanding of roles and competencies

What is the focus of interprofessional collaboration

Promoting client safety, efficient care, and holistic treatment through teamwork across disciplines

Why is interprofessional collaboration important

It improves health outcomes, enhances efficiency, and reduces duplication of services

What qualities make interprofessional teams effective

Trust, respect, open communication, shared goals, and understanding of professional roles

What challenges may occur in interprofessional teams

Role confusion, communication breakdown, differing priorities, and power imbalances

What are effective strategies for interprofessional teamwork

Use of clear communication, empathy, accountability, and conflict resolution

What is the role of the OT in interprofessional teams

Provides expertise in occupation-based interventions and advocates for participation in meaningful activities

What is the role of the OTA in interprofessional teams

Supports OT goals, shares client progress, and collaborates with other professionals to meet client needs

How can OTs prepare for effective interprofessional collaboration

Understand scope of practice, communicate clearly, and demonstrate professionalism

How can conflict be managed in team settings

Use active listening, stay calm, identify shared goals, and apply win-win problem solving

What is the importance of supervision in intraprofessional collaboration

Ensures quality care, maintains safety, and supports professional development through ongoing feedback

What makes feedback effective in professional settings

It is specific, timely, and focused on growth, not criticism

How should feedback be received in professional teams

Listen openly, clarify points, and reflect before responding

What behaviors show professionalism in collaboration

Integrity, accountability, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and dependability

What communication approach builds strong teamwork

Assertive communication that balances respect and honesty

Why is "I" language effective in communication

It reduces defensiveness and focuses on personal responsibility instead of blame

What is self-awareness in teamwork

Recognizing your own emotions, values, and reactions to improve interactions

When should a third party help with conflict

When communication fails or issues affect team function or safety

What are the benefits of well-managed conflict

Improves respect, teamwork, and creative problem-solving

How can damaged professional relationships be repaired

Take responsibility, show empathy, and rebuild trust through honest actions

What are examples of poor communication to avoid

Interrupting, blaming, ignoring conflict, or reacting emotionally

When should an OT make a referral

When client needs exceed OT scope or require specialized services

Who can OTs refer to within the profession

Certified OT specialists (hand therapy, mental health, low vision, etc.)

Who can OTs refer to outside the profession

Medical, psychological, or community professionals when needs go beyond OT practice

What guides the OT referral process

State licensure laws, payer rules, and organizational policies