Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Fostering Early Literacy Skill Development In School Aged Children, Jaden Pikarski

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project is to foster early literacy skill development for children within the school system. The materials created are intended to enhance the context and promote learning in a way that is meaningful and developmentally appropriate.

Social Skills Development: A Program For Pediatric Occupational Therapy Group Sessions, Kenadee Eyre

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Children with a neurological disorder often demonstrate delays in social skills development (Glenn et al., 2020; Goldingay et al. 2020; & Tanta & Kuhaneck, 2020). This delay in development impacts their participation in meaningful occupations as optimal performance range includes an element of social interaction. The purpose of this product is to provide pediatric occupational therapists with the resources necessary to build social skills groups following a hierarchy of social skills development.

Acting On The Need Of A Client, Caregiver, And Practitioner Seating And Mobility Guide, Aleksander Robert Kohn

Occupational Therapy Capstones

There is a significant need for individuals with a disability and specific mobility limitations to require a wheeled mobility device. Wheeled mobility devices allow individuals to gain and/or maintain independence and engagement in occupations. The evaluation, prescription, and fitment of wheeled mobility devices are complex, requiring clients and caregivers to use and maintain these devices in specific ways. Barriers caregivers face can include not positioning the client properly in the wheeled mobility device, damaged or missing wheelchair parts, or improper positioning of the straps and belts, affecting posture, which could lead to secondary complications.

Assisting Mothers In The Transition Into Motherhood, Abbey Mckenna Marinucci

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The perinatal period ranges from 22 weeks gestation to 2 years postpartum (Hoekzema et al., 2017; Seth et al., 2016; World Health Organization, n.d.). During the perinatal period, intervention is primarily provided by an obstetrician and gynecologist (OBGYN) during pregnancy. Typically, mothers are discharged on average 2.1 days after a natural birth (Podulka et al., 2011). Women are seen at 6 weeks postpartum where mothers’ physical health is the focus of the visit, leaving mothers' mental health concerns unaddressed and questions typically unanswered (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2012 & American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2012 as cited in Corrigan …

Improving Occupational Engagement For Children With Executive Dysfunction, Autumn Hopkin

Occupational Therapy Capstones

A person's ability to successfully perform complex tasks requires a higher level of thinking made possible through the successful use of executive functions. Executive functions develop over time, but typical development begins in early childhood. When children experience interruptions to development, executive dysfunction can inhibit their ability to reach their full occupational potential with play, academics, and social skill development. This scholarly project aims to promote executive function using an evidence-based approach to support occupational therapy practitioners and the children they serve with executive dysfunction.

The Impact Of Trauma On Occupational Performance For People Experiencing Homelessness, Isabella Jeanette Johannes

Occupational Therapy Capstones

People transitioning from homelessness experience trauma at three times the risk than the general population (McCurry, 2021). Occupational therapy can provide trauma-informed services that helps people that have experienced homelessness transition to supported housing by addressing occupational competence and identity formation through meaningful activity (McCurry, 2021). Occupational therapy can address this area by educating staff and students that work with this population to be more trauma- informed. It is important to utilize a trauma-informed approach to avoid retraumatization to people that have experienced homelessness (AOTA, 2021). There were two purposes of this project: a) develop advanced knowledge in trauma-informed care, …

The Ambassador Program: Improving Functional Community Participation For Individuals With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities, Kathryn Elizabeth College

Occupational Therapy Capstones

This scholarly project aims to create more functional engagement opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) in a community setting. Individuals with ID/DD experience a multitude of barriers when attempting to become active members of the community and engage in meaningful opportunities and social interactions (Doerpinghaus et al., 2022; Trembath et al., 2010). These barriers can include a lack of individualized support, low self-esteem, difficulty finding valuable volunteer experiences, and a prejudice in community settings (Milot et al., 2020; Trembath et al., 2010).

An Occupational Therapy Perspective On Health And Wellness: A Step Toward Prevention, Olivia Grace Myers

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this project was to develop a group protocol that addresses the primary prevention of obesity through an occupational therapy lens within a community setting.

Life Skills Training Resource For Individuals Aging Out Of The Foster System, Stephanie Coauette

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this project was to create a training resource for foster families regarding life skills for the population of individuals aging out of the foster care system. There is an identified need for resources for individuals who age out of the foster system for life skills training and basic activities of daily living (ADL) training (Paul-Ward & Lambdin- Pattavina, 2016). Aging out of the foster system means that an individual has turned 18 years old without a legal adoptive family taking responsibility for them (Scannapieco et al., 2007). There is a need for the individuals who are preparing …

Serving The Needs Of The Autism Spectrum Disorder Population, Taylor White

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is marked by challenges in social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behavior which results in difficulties in many occupations (American Psychological Association [APA], 2013; Crabtree & Demchick, 2018). Occupational therapy is part of the multidisciplinary team providing services to children with ASD. The purpose of this doctoral experiential placement was to gain advanced clinical practice knowledge for serving children with ASD. Additionally, a product focused on enhancing interprofessional collaboration was developed.

Occupational Therapy’S Role In Promoting Early Literacy In Head Start Programs, Paige Mann

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project is to create resources to support teachers and caregivers of Head Start students in supporting early literacy skill development. These resource guides and activity kits aim to support teachers and caregivers in closing the literacy gap between children raised in low-socioeconomic (SES) households and their peers from highsocioeconomic households.

Development Of Wellness And Nutrition Through The Use Of Gardening, Josie Anhorn

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The population of older adults has been rising exponentially in recent years (Duffin, 2022), leading to an influx in people moving into retirement or independent living communities. This transition may cause many changes in the new residents’ occupational participation and overall well-being. Research has shown specific areas of concern in socialization, nutrition, self-esteem, physical abilities, and continued participation in meaningful occupations (Holland et al., 2017; Knecht-Sabres et al., 2020; Smith, 2015; Sommerfeld et al., 2018; Swann, 2006; Swann, 2010). Gardening has been shown to positively impact these areas of health and well-being and ease some of the negative symptoms (Thompson, …

Functional Movement Screen: Exploring Interrater Reliability Between Students, Austin Weisz

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the interrater reliability of the most recent Functional Movement Screen (FMS), between four second-year physical therapy students. The most recent FMS has added the ankle clearing test (pain and mobility categories) after the inline lunge and modified the rotary stability movement pattern and criteria for scoring. To our knowledge, there has not been a reliability study completed with the most recent additions and modifications of the FMS.

Methods: Forty-five physical therapy students participated and were videotaped completing the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) and were rated by four current second-year physical …

Rehabilitation Of A Patient Diagnosed With Dermatomyositis In A Skilled Nursing Facilty: A Case Report, Chance D. Halvorson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Dermatomyositis is a disease of unknown origin that results in skin rashes and muscle wasting that can lead to significant respiratory issues and loss of function. This case report describes the response following functional training in a bedridden patient who recently reported to a skilled nursing facility.

Case Description: The patient was a 78-year-old male who was previously diagnosed with dermatomyositis that rapidly progressed after being hospitalized for over 4 months. The patient had a complicated past medical history and a difficult socioeconomic background.

Intervention: The plan of care was focused around promoting independence …

The Effect Of Physical Therapy Intervention On Fatigue, Balance, Depression And Quality Of Life In Clients Following Medical Treatment For Cancer: A Pilot Study, Mckenna N. Johnson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

People who are diagnosed with cancer and undergo radiation or chemotherapy treatment are at great risk for developing long-term side effects such as fatigue, balance deficits, depression, and decreased quality of life months and even years following treatment. With approximately 16.9 million people in the United States with a history of invasive cancer, and an expected steady increase in this number in the coming years, a better understanding of these side effects and how they can be treated would be instrumental for health care professionals. The purpose of this study was to test the effect of exercise intervention on fatigue, …

The Effects Of Palmar Cooling On Power, Strength, And Endurance: An Investigative Study, Madison Kramer

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Purpose/Hypothesis: For many athletes and active individuals, the ability to improve endurance, strength, and power is a common goal. Millions of people around the world engage in sporting events and other physical activities every day. While each sport has differing physical requirements, each sport requires varying degrees of endurance, strength, and power. During sporting events or exercise routines, body temperature increases and eventually begins to have a negative impact on performance. Research on palmar cooling has shown endurance benefits. The palm is an area of the body with abundant anastomoses, or cross-connections of blood vessels. These areas transfer heat …

Outpatient Physical Therapy Management Of Symptoms Associated With A Brainstem Arteriovenous Malformation: A Case Report, Michell Hall

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Arteriovenous malformations are irregular connections between arteries and veins, while they can occur anywhere in the body, they are the most common in the brain and the spinal cord. The purpose of this case study is to describe the interventions, treatments, and results of conservative physical therapy for a patient diagnosed with an arteriovenous malformation located in the brainstem.

CASE DESCRIPTION: Descriptive case study of a patient scheduled two times a week for a 6-week episode of care. Conservative physical therapy interventions and treatments included lower extremity strengthening, static and dynamic balance training, gait training …

The Progression, Treatment, And Rehabilitation Of Guillain Barré Syndrome: Case Report, Hannah M. Shaffer

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Guillain Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an acute demyelinating disease of the peripheral nervous system. It is characterized by sudden progressive weakness and paraesthesias of the limbs. This case study evaluates the effectiveness of physical therapy (PT) and the use of body-weight support gait training (BWST) in the return to function in GBS patients.

Case Description: The patient was a 42-year-old female who presented to the acute care hospital with sudden onset paresthesias and weakness causing sudden loss of ambulation and functional mobility.

Interventions: Due to decreased activity tolerance, initial PT treatment consisted of passive …

Usefulness Of Kinesiotaping For Children Experiencing High Tone And Spasticity As A Symptom Of Cerebral Palsy, Hailey Koep, Hailey Mcguire, Claire Meyer

Critically Appraised Topics

This critically appraised topic focuses on the use of Kinesiotape for improving occupational engagement for children and adolescents experiencing high tone or spasticity related to the diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy treated in the outpatient setting. To develop a better understanding of the different factors in question, Cerebral Palsy and Kinesiotape are first addressed, then the impacts on the quality of life in children with CP, and finally, occupational therapy's role in the use of Kinesiotape and treatment of CP.

Addressing Interoceptive Awareness In Elementary School Students Affected By Childhood Trauma To Improve Emotional Regulation, Alison O’Sadnick

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Childhood trauma can affect students’ interoceptive awareness affecting their ability to emotionally regulate within the classroom environment (Neal, 2021). Evidence demonstrates that for students to emotionally regulate, they must have interoceptive awareness (Mahler, 2020). Interoceptive awareness is described as the ability to detect the physiological state of the body such as recognizing signals of respiratory effort, temperature, fatigue, hunger, thirst, satiety, pain, muscle aches, and heart rate (Mahler et al., 2022). Children who have experienced trauma commonly have difficulty identifying and describing internal arousal states, labeling, and expressing emotions and making their needs and wants to be known (Scaffa, 2019).

A Holistic Approach To Promoting Sleep For People Emerging From Homelessness: A Good Night’S Rest In Your Nest Sleep Toolkit, Anna Frances Burggraf

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Sleep deprivation has been directly linked to chronic health issues, decreased physical and cognitive functioning, and overall decreased quality of life, which limits the ability to engage in desired tasks and occupations (Gonzalez & Tyminski, 2020). Individuals who have experienced homelessness consistently demonstrate higher rates of sleep inadequacies compared to the general public, which highlights the need for service providers to address the quality of sleep participation for this population (Gonzalez & Tyminski, 2020).

The Role Of Occupational Therapists Working With Adolescents With Mental Health Conditions In The Juvenile Justice System, Angelina M. Caron, Madalyn M. England, Mattea J. Johnson

Critically Appraised Topics

This critically appraised topic paper focuses on interventions for improving adolescents' mental health status to promote engagement in occupations in the JJS. With many factors to consider, adolescent demographics and previous contexts were described first, then the impact that mental health programs in the JJS have on adolescents' mental health was reviewed. Finally, occupational therapy’s role in improving occupational engagement through addressing mental health was investigated.

The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Determining The Effectiveness Of Functional Task Assessments Used To Improve Quality Of Life For Older Adults With Parkinson’S Disease., Kate L. Westphal, Brooklyn L. Wiest, Jordyn M. Wolff

Critically Appraised Topics

This critically appraised topic focuses on the role of occupational therapy in ascertaining the effectiveness of specific functional assessments in improving the quality of life of older adults with Parkinson’s disease.

Cat Part Iv: Occupational Therapy Interventions To Support Upper Extremity Spasticity In Older Adults Following A Stroke, Mary Redlin, Allie Reiffenberger, Shannon Ring, Aubrey Rude

Critically Appraised Topics

This critically appraised topic focuses on interventions for improving hand functions in activities of daily living (ADLs) for elderly adults who have chronic upper extremity spasticity following a stroke. For the purpose of this critically appraised topic, the focus will be on the elderly population, defined as being age 55 and older; research indicates stroke is most prevalent in this population (Mayo Clinic, 2022). When considering a particular theory, the Ecology of Human Performance (EHP) is the most suitable model for our focus question (Dunn, 2017). The Ecology of Human Performance is focused on the person and environment to increase …

A Successful Start With New Start: Transitional Community-Based Services For Student Veterans, Sheena Kay Miller

Occupational Therapy Capstones

For veterans, integration into the community post-service poses a variety of unique challenges as they pursue many different opportunities. One of those opportunities sought out by this population according to the literature is higher education. It is estimated that approximately 900,000 veterans and their families had utilized the post-9/11 GI Bill as of 2018, with that number expected to only increase over time (Ulrich & Freer, 2020). Some of the unique challenges faced by this population include higher rates of mental health diagnoses, suicidal thoughts, and service-related injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI) than their civilian peers (Eakman et …

The Effects Of Sensory Exposures On Pre-Term Infants Within The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Isabell Grace Fetsch

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) setting is a very dynamic, complex environment that can greatly affect the well-being and physical development of pre-term infants. Pre-term infants are defined as infants born earlier than 37 weeks’ gestation (CDC, 2021). AOTA (2018) researchers stated that a pre-term infant does not have the self-regulatory tools to adapt to the complex and highly stressful NICU environment. Pineda et al. (2017) explained that the environment within the NICU presents many adverse sensory stimuli such as bright lights, loud noises, and stressful human touches. When infants are unable to manage environmental sensory exposures appropriately due …

Periacetabular Osteotomy With Tibial Derotation And Fai Repairs As A Treatment For Symptomatic Hip Dysplasia In An Athlete: A Case Study, Marlie M. Maanum

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: This case study details a 16-year-old patient following periacetabular osteotomy surgery with labral repair and tibial derotation. In reading this case, you will learn about interventions performed and ideas to consider for any patient hoping to return to sports following orthopedic procedures.

Case Description: Throughout the rehabilitation there was a large focus on the patient returning to sports, specifically basketball. The physical therapy prescription focused on mobility and strengthening of the entire lower extremity due to this surgery’s aggressive nature at the ankle and hip joint. It is accepted throughout the orthopedic world that there …

A Holistic Approach To Promote Sleep For People Emerging From Homelessness: A Good Night’S Rest In Your Nest Sleep Toolkit, Anna Burggraf

Frank Low Research Day Posters

Background: Sleep deprivation has been linked to chronic health issues, decreased physical and cognitive functioning, and overall decreased quality of life, which limits the ability to engage in desired tasks and occupations (Gonzalez & Tyminski, 2020). Obtaining restful sleep serves as a foundation for optimal cognitive and physical functioning during daily tasks, roles, and activities (AOTA, 2017). Individuals who have experienced homelessness consistently demonstrate higher rates of sleep inadequacies compared to the general public, highlighting the need for service providers to address the quality of sleep participation for this population (Gonzalez & Tyminski, 2020).

Purpose

• Promote sleep participation for …

The How To’S For Engaging With Medically Complex Children: A Resource Guide, Allyson Bourque

Frank Low Research Day Posters

Purpose: The purpose of this scholarly project is to identify and address the factors that serve as barriers to engagement in valued occupations for children with serious or life-threatening illness.

Background: Children with serious or life-threatening illness are at great risk for occupational deprivation due to their complex medical needs as well as the inhibiting physical symptomology that may accompany their diagnoses (Doukkali et al., 2013; Kasven-Gonzales & Miale, 2010). Individuals working with this population have reported a need for more specialized education for working with children with medically complex needs (Gysels et al., 2005; Whiteford et al., 2020). It …

How Adaptive Sports Promote Occupational Engagement And Quality Of Life For Individuals With Disabilities In A Rural Community, Michael Helgeson

Frank Low Research Day Posters

Purpose: The purpose of this scholarly project is to address the barriers individuals with physical disabilities face through the development of adaptive sports programs; hereby, increasing their occupational engagement, quality of life (QOL), and life satisfaction.

Background: Individuals with disabilities, compared to the general population, have diminished health and QOL due to limited community participation and occupational engagement (Yazicioglu et al., 2012). Adaptive sports have shown to increase QOL and well-being for individuals with physical disabilities (Brown et al., 2021; Yazicioglu et al., 2012). Although, this population, specifically in rural communities, face many barriers to adaptive sports engagement including …