Topic 10 Consulting_and_Biopsychosocial-1__2_

1. Consultation, Counselling & Report Writing

1.1 Objectives

• At the completion of this topic, students should be able to:

  1. List the professionals a clinical exercise physiologist may consult regarding exercise rehabilitation.

  2. Describe the attitudes and skills required for effective communication with clients and other health professionals.

  3. List components of a strategy useful for resolving conflict.

  4. Describe the meaning of ethical and professional behavior.

1.2 ESSA Adult Pre-exercise Screening System

• Stage 1 (compulsory)

  • Self-administered by the client with six questions (YES/NO) to identify individuals with known diseases or at higher risk during exercise.

  • If NO to all questions, calculate typical physical activity per week.

  • If YES to any question, refer to an allied health professional (EP) or medical practitioner before exercise.

• Stage 2

  • Conducted by a qualified exercise professional.

  • Additional questions on cardiac risk factors and medical history to determine cardiovascular risk score.

2. Client Consultation

2.1 Definition of Consultation

• Involves both client consultation and collaboration with the rehabilitation team, including:

  • Surgeons/Specialists

  • General Practitioners

  • Physiotherapists

  • Occupational Therapists

2.2 Elements of Consultation Planning

• Interpreting, gathering information, recording, cooperation, tact, and professionalism are crucial.

• Effective Client Counselling:

  • Acceptance, respect, non-judgmental attitude, flexibility, empathy, rapport, trust, genuineness.

3. Interpersonal & Communication Skills

3.1 Key Skills for Exercise Physiologists

• Interpersonal Skills:

  • Respond to clients' verbal/non-verbal cues.

  • Use appropriate humor and share experiences.

• Communication Skills:

  • Active listening, expressing empathy, appropriate questioning, and non-confrontation.

3.2 Client Interviewing Techniques

• Meeting: Introduce self and find the client's preferred form of address.

• Greeting: Thank the client for coming.

• Seating: Arrange to be non-threatening and limit physical barriers.

• Getting Started: Explain the purpose, nature of questions, and uses of information; establish rapport.

• Questioning Techniques:

  • Open, closed, probing questions and allow periods of silence for client reflection.

• Active Listening: Maintain eye contact, appropriate body language, and use feedback and paraphrasing.

4. Problem-Solving and Conflict Resolution

4.1 Resolving Conflict Approach

• Define the problem, gather information, formulate a plan, generate alternatives, identify resources, and evaluate problem-solving attempts.

5. Ethical & Professional Behaviour

5.1 Key Principles

• Maintain integrity and confidentiality.

• Adhere to an ethical code of professional behavior.

• Consultation within one’s limits and engage in professional development.

• Avoid manipulation of others.

6. Report Writing

6.1 Importance of Written Communication

• Essential for providing evidence of program effectiveness and for facilitating communication among all parties involved in rehabilitation.

6.2 Guidelines for Report Writing

• Should be regular, specific, and accurate.

• Use appropriate terminology and proofread for errors.

• Keep records in a safe and confidential manner, including referral letters and assessment results.

7. Outcome Measures

7.1 Definition and Importance

• Observable or measurable results of interventions that improve understanding and provide justification for treatment programs.

7.2 Assessment Tools

• Questionnaires, functional assessments, and specific measurements (e.g., ROM, strength, balance) are critical.

8. Biopsychosocial Integration

8.1 Objectives

• Define ‘biopsychosocial integration’ in exercise rehabilitation, and outline biological, psychological, and social factors for effective rehabilitation.

8.2 Techniques for Client Motivation

• Importance of motivational techniques during setbacks, including goal setting, relaxation, imagery, positive self-talk, and readiness for competition or work.

9. Typical Exam Questions

• Define biopsychosocial integration and discuss its importance in exercise rehabilitation.

• Discuss appropriate professional and ethical behavior in exercise rehabilitation services.