Clinical validation of self-reported osteoarthritis.

Objective: To evaluate the use of a postal survey to detect subjects in the community with osteoarthritis (OA) and the ability of metrologists to detect clinical OA.

Methods: Questionnaires were posted to a random sample of residents of the Northern Sydney Health Area, aged 45-64 years old, asking for details of musculoskeletal complaints and diagnoses. A questionnaire definition of OA was made if 'osteoarthritis' was reported or 'degenerative arthritis', 'joints wearing' out together with pain in joints during the previous 6 months.

Can occupational therapy intervention play a part in maintaining independence and quality of life in older people? A randomised controlled trial.

The main objective of this study was to see if older people could maintain their quality of life and independence after their homes had been modified and they were using community services as recommended by an occupational therapist. There were 167 study participants aged 69 to 94 years from the Northern Sydney Area. After being assessed at home by an occupational therapist, 105 were randomly allocated to one of two groups, to either have or not have the occupational therapist's recommendations carried out.

Self assessment:giving a brief for an educational illustration.

This series provides teachers with the opportunity of assessing their knowledge and understanding of some important aspects relating to their work as teachers. Only after you have commited your own answers to paper should you read the answers given.