Catherine Verrier Piersol

Piersol Publishes Second Edition of OT Home Care Manual

Catherine Verrier Piersol, MS, OTR/L, completed the second edition of her book Occupational Therapy in Home Health Care with co-editor Phyllis L. Ehrlich, MS, OTR/L, CHES, published by Pro-Ed, Inc. in November 2008. Piersol is the clinical director of Jefferson Elder Care within Jefferson Center for Applied Research on Aging and Health (CARAH) and assistant professor, Department of Occupational Therapy in the Jefferson School of Health Professions.

"This manual is a practical guide designed for occupational therapists working in the home health care arena and provides practical information about navigating the home care industry," Piersol explains. "The book is not intended to be read cover to cover; rather each of the seven chapters addresses a unique aspect of working in the home care setting including the basics of getting started, seeking and using evidence, effective documentation, and cultural competency when providing therapy in a client's home."

One of the key features of the manual is a CD of reproducible home programs and information sheets that occupational therapists can individualize, print and use with clients. In addition, a list of current web resources is also provided.

"A benefit to occupational therapists is having information that tends to be found in a variety of resources assembled under one cover." Piersol says. Although it is clearly targeted to OTs who are engaged in home care, Piersol says that the book is an excellent resource for other health care professionals and academic programs that include home care in the curriculum.

"This book will serve as a resource for the occupational therapists who provide home care services through Jefferson Elder Care, providing practical guidelines for implementing our evidence-based interventions," shares Laura N. Gitlin, PhD, director of CARAH.

Published: 2-20-09

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