PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF HAND INJURIES: THEIR TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION (COUNSELING ACTIVITIES, PAIN, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY, DISFIGUREMENT)
Abstract
Psychological factors related to treatment and rehabilitation of hand-injured patients were identified through interviews of patients and compared with those reported in the literature. The investigator interviewed 30 hand patients in treatment at hospitals and clinics. Heider's attribution theory provided the frame of reference. The questionnaire of interviews was devised by the investigator, validated by hand specialists, and field-tested with hand patients. Chi square was used for testing the significance of frequency data and a Kruskal Wallis one-way analysis of variance for comparison of group mean scores. The .05 level of confidence determined statistical significance of findings. Concern for inactivity, desire to return to work, and effort toward recovery were identified as significantly common factors; pain and fear of disfigurement were not. Although the patients perceived themselves as making the greatest effort toward recovery, they did not consider themselves most important in the recovery process. The responsibility factor varied significantly among the early, middle, and final phases of treatment. The results of the investigation were discussed in relation to hand-rehabilitation and implications for counseling, occupational therapy, and additional research.
This paper has been withdrawn.