Handbook » Standards of Practice

 

Standards of Practice of NZSDT

 

Standard One

Diversional Therapists are accountable for their practise with all people in a supportive environment.

Outcomes:

  • Safe - legal- effective with responses to the holistic changing needs of the client.
  • Individual rights are respected and acknowledged.
  • The changing needs of the client are addressed and documented.
  • Diversional Therapy contribution in the wider community is visible.
  • The image and value of Diversional Therapy’s enhanced and promoted.

 

Standard Two

Within their scope of practise be it workplace or with the residents in alternative environments (i.e. outings), the Diversional Therapist is responsible for the safety and well being of their clients/co-workers and self.

Outcomes:

  • Clients feel culturally and spiritually respected by the following principles of the Treaty of Waitangi-Participation, Protection and Partnership and by meeting the obligations required under the United Nations Principles for the Older Person (1991) based on the Declaration of Rights by the International Federation of Aging (I.F.A.) and the Health and Disability Sector Standards NZS 8134: 2001 and the Ministry of Health Contractual requirements, National Contract for Age Related Residential Care services
  • The Diversional Therapist provides a wide opportunity of choice, environment and decision making and respects the client’s decision in flexibility and freedom of choice.
  • Client’s ways of life are supported, encouraged and validated.

 

Standard Three

The Diversional Therapist must work within the framework of a multidisciplinary team with clients and significant others.

Outcomes:

  • Diversional Therapy practise develops within the context of a negotiable relationship with clients, family, significant others, and the professional support team.
  • The Diversional Therapist will develop an individualised approach to clients needs.
  • Clients, family and community benefit from Diversional Therapists professional expertise and holistic approach.

 

Standard Four

Diversional Therapists are committed to ongoing professional development.

Outcomes:

  • Diversional Therapy practise is based on current knowledge and experience within a changing environment.
  • Research is an essential component of Diversional Therapy.
  • Diversional Therapy practise is enhanced by discussion of professional issues with the appropriate health professional.
  • Diversional Therapists enhance their practise with input from peers, professionals, non-professionals and other resources.
  • Self development resource manual is compiled and continually updated.
  • The Diversional Therapist has an awareness and access to developing technology.

 

Standard Five

The Diversional Therapist will manage resources efficiently and effectively to meet clients individual needs.

Outcomes:

  • Where ever possible resources are provided at the appropriate time, quantity and quality to meet the client’s individual needs.
  • The Diversional Therapist will be responsible for facilitating maintenance of all equipment and resources used in activities and special therapies to recognised standards.
  • Diversional Therapy is included in the policy and procedure manuals of the employers.

 

Standard Six

The Diversional Therapist will demonstrate the awareness of the need of advocacy and confidentiality within the Diversional Therapy setting.

Outcomes:

  • The Diversional Therapist will be competent to evaluate possible solutions to reduce social and individual inequities in client care.
  • The Diversional Therapist will meet the practise requirements determined by the NZ Society of Diversional Therapists Code of Ethics 1995.
  • All work practices must meet the obligations required under the United Nations Principles Older Persons (1991) based on the Declaration of Rights by the International Federation of Aging (I.F.A.), the Health and Disability Sector Standards NZS 8134: 2001 and the Ministry of Health Contractual requirements, National Contract for Age Related Residential Care Services
  • The Diversional Therapist will access appropriate health professionals assistance as required.

 

PDFStandards of Practise
PDF Version of NZSDT's Standards of Practice