1. What article did we discuss?

We discussed the NICE clinical practice guidelines on working with adults with multiple sclerosis. Sections of the guidelines most relevant to occupational therapists include recommendations related to assessing cognition, managing fatigue and exploring pain, all as part of a comprehensive assessment and management plan. The NICE guidelines were published in 2022 and draw on international research; the guideline development committee was made up of a multidisciplinary team, including members of the general public.

2. What ‘Research Fundamentals’ tip was covered in this session?

We covered an introduction to what the NICE guidelines are, including an overview of how they are developed. A number of examples of guidelines relevant to OT practice were introduced.

3. What were the key points from the article critique?

The YOTT Key Appraisal Questions checklist was used. Overall, it was developed by a multidisciplinary committee with highly relevant expertise, and it provided a comprehensive summary of the recent evidence relevant to some (but not all) MS symptoms. Any OTs working with adults with MS in any caseload in Australia were likely to find the content highly relevant to their caseloads, but readers were reminded to use their own clinical reasoning and consider individual needs when implementing the recommendations from the guidelines.

4. What were some of the key take home messages from the discussion?

OTs should be completing a thorough assessment on a regular basis for people with multiple sclerosis, covering a range of common symptoms such as cognition, pain and fatigue. The importance of a self-management approach, within the context of multidisciplinary teamwork is essential. The MFIS was recommended as a helpful tool for exploring the interaction between fatigue and cognitive deficits, while OTs should be liaising with physiotherapists and exercises physiologists to ensure people with MS are receiving appropriate guidance regarding exercise, and how this relates to energy conservation principles.

5. How are OTs going to use what they learnt in this session?

OTs were planning to use clinical guidelines to help plan initial assessments and to strengthen recommendations in reports. Others were planning to explore emerging evidence around sensory integration, forest bathing and mindfulness.