Original by en:User:Chris 73, updated by en:User:Diberri, converted to SVG by tiZom, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Common

Depolarization

During depolarization, positive charges enter the cell and if the threshold is reached there is an action potential.  

When advocating for the “action potential” of our Occupational Therapy profession, we need to be engaged to reach the threshold for action.  We have many channels in which we can follow our passions. We can advocate for change by attending a Day at the Capitol, contacting our legislators, or voicing our distinct value to an interdisciplinary team. We reach the threshold for action by embracing diversity and inclusion, demonstrating formal and informal leadership, and defending the scope of Occupational Therapy practice. At times, we face failed initiations.  Collaborating with other Occupational Therapists and allying with interdisciplinary teams is key to reaching thresholds that effectuate change.  

“We must be bold and use our OT skills to step into new areas and expand our reach, continuing to advocate for the value of OT and acknowledge one’s training.” (Emmert & Petrone, 2022)

Repolarization

During the repolarization stage, the cell membrane becomes negatively charged. 

As a therapist, I equate the repolarization stage as an opportunity to be a reflective practitioner.  As we reflect on our daily tasks, we gain insight as to how we could implement changes that improve our practice.  Through evidence-based research we improve our approach and interventions.  We contemplate areas of practice that spark our interests and passions. We can take on informal leadership roles by taking on a new project or responsibility. If we are stuck in a stage of repolarization and negativity, we can envision pivoting to a different practice setting or with a new client population.

Resting state

At the cellular level, during the resting state the outside of the cell membrane becomes more positively charged.  The negatively charged neuron cell attains its resting membrane potential between -40 to -90 mV. 

As Occupational Therapists, we face many demands through work and life.  We need rest to recharge. As Occupational Therapists we work as caregivers, healthcare workers, and educators.  Our work is physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding. We face several external negative factors such as productivity requirements and increasing medical complexities in our patient populations.  We need to rest to preserve our work life balance and our strength as effective therapists. 

Cindy Steinert, OTD, MSOTR/L, CLT

References: 

Emmert, C., & Petrone, N. (2022) Unlocking the potential of occupational therapy in new settings, SIS Quarterly Practice Connections, 7(4).

The Action Potential - TeachMePhysiology

Reflection and Call to Action:

Occupational Therapy is a beautiful profession with unlimited potential. Unfortunately, real world limitations set in and we can experience burnout and frustration with the systems we work in. OT practitioners can respond in a variety of ways, and it is the hope of the WOTA Advocacy Committee that Wisconsin OTPs choose to see opportunity in our future. Our goal with the blog is to provide a safe place to share AND explore solutions and innovation to move the profession forward.