Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 3

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Define a therapeutic device and its importance.
• Identify various types of therapeutic devices and their uses.
• Describe the roles of different healthcare professionals in therapy.
• Understand the impact of these devices on patient care.

Lesson summary

This lesson introduces the concept of therapeutic devices, which are essential tools in modern healthcare. We will explore what they are, their different types, and their functions. In our communities in Ghana, we often see people using crutches after an injury, an asthmatic child using an inhaler, or an elderly person using a walking stick. These are all therapeutic devices. Understanding them helps us appreciate how technology aids in treatment, rehabilitation, and improving the quality of life for individuals with various health conditions. This lesson also connects these devices to the expert professionals, often called therapists, who prescribe and manage their use.

Lesson notes

2.1 What is a Therapeutic Device?

A therapeutic device is any instrument, apparatus, machine, or tool (other than a drug) used to treat, manage, or prevent a medical condition, or to assist a person during rehabilitation from an illness or injury.

The key word is "therapeutic," which means "related to the healing of disease." These devices actively do something to help the body heal, function better, or cope with a limitation. Distinction: It's important to distinguish a therapeutic device from a *diagnostic* device. A diagnostic device helps to identify a condition (e.g., an X-ray machine, a thermometer, a blood pressure monitor). A therapeutic device helps to treat the condition (e.g., crutches for a broken leg, a nebulizer for an asthma attack). *Note:* Some devices can have both functions. For example, a pacemaker monitors the heart's rhythm (diagnostic) and sends electrical pulses to correct it (therapeutic). 2.2 Categories and Examples of Therapeutic Devices

We can classify therapeutic devices based on their primary function. Here are some major categories with examples relevant to the Ghanaian context.

Evaluation guide

• Investigate who a therapist is and enumerate the various specialties.
• Experiential Learning: Embark on a visit to a therapist or listen to a presentation by a therapist
• about their profession and job schedule.
• Activity -Based learning: In groups, role-play the duties of the various professionals involved in the