Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

The Effectiveness Of Occupational Therapy Interventions For Students With Mental Illness Transitioning To Higher Education: A Systematic Review, Brittany Davis, Leah Sherman

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Objective: To examine the available evidence for interventions within the scope of occupational therapy for students with mental illness during the transition process to postsecondary education. Method: This systematic review yielded seven articles including two systematic reviews, three one group pretest/posttest design, one naturalistic pre/posttest design, and one scoping review related to the transition process to post secondary education.

Results: Occupation-based interventions emphasized the occupation of education instead of focusing on co-occurring occupations a student may frequently participate in when enrolled in postsecondary education. Programs emphasized environmental approaches including using the students' past experiences, building self-advocacy skills, accessing supportive education …

Intensive Outpatient Program For Substance Abuse: Occupational Therapy Guideline To Recovery, Jessica Dietz, Elynn Schriber

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project was to develop an evidence-based 12-session group protocol for occupational therapists (OTs) to use in an intensive outpatient program (IOP) for substance abuse. The target population for this scholarly project was young adults aged 18-25 who have illicit drug use issues. Guided by concepts of the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO), the protocol targeted common occupational performance and deficit issues encountered by individuals with substance use. The authors first observed one, 3-hour IOP session at Central Wyoming Counseling Center (CWCC) and participated in one, two-hour meeting with the director of substance abuse programing at …

Wise And Well: A Pilot Study On The Effects Of Providing A Wellness Group Protocol To Enhance Occupational Fit Among Rural Community Dwelling Elderly Women, Brianna Berendt, Carly Hills

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Problem: There is a need for rural services for community-dwelling women due to a lack of resources, transportation, and social opportunities (Bacsu et a!., 2016; Averill, 201 2). Likewise, Shimada et a!. (2014) emphasized the impact and causes of social isolation on elderly individuals and how important it is for elderly individuals to establish a support system when facing challenges throughout later life. A third problem was described by Choi et a!. (2013) in that elderly individuals may experience a loss of independence and functional decline can result from being physically inactive. This indicates that there are increased health risks …

Preparing Occupational Therapists For Treatment Of The Transgender Population: A Training Guide For Supportive Care, Nicola Grun, Lauren Trohkimoinen

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Throughout current literature, it is clear that people who identify as transgender face larger percentages of occupational injustice and deprivation than people who identify with the sex they were assigned at birth (Bar, Jarus, Wada, Rechtman, & Noy, 2016; Twinley, 2014). There is no occupational therapy specific research or client-specific programming for transgender people (Beagan, Chiasson, Fiske, Forseth, Hosein, Myers & Stang, 2013), which indicates the need for supportive care for this population. The purpose of this scholarly project is to develop a training guide to prepare occupational therapists to provide supportive care for the transgender population. The Ecology of …

The Experience Of Occupational Therapy Practitioners And Students With Disabilities: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study, Samantha Guenther, Anna Huss

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose

This mixed-methods pilot study was conducted to provide insight into the experiences of occupational therapy practitioners and students with disabilities. The focus of this study was to analyze the effect of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) on access to reasonable accommodations. The researchers predicted that, although occupational therapy is a profession focused on advocacy for people with disabilities, reasonable accommodations are applied inconsistently for practitioners with disabilities within the OT field.

Methodology

A Qualtrics survey was sent out to occupational therapists with disabilities in order to collect demographic data and select participants for …

Lived Experience Of Individuals Who Had A Disruption In Ability To Drive, Shelby Hoskinson, Graydon Larsen

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: Driving is both a highly valued occupation within the United States and an occupation that is frequently addressed by occupational therapists. According to the CDC (2017) there are more than 40 million older drivers ages 65 years or older within the United States. There is extensive research pertaining to the value of the occupation of driving as well as evaluation and treatment approaches for the occupation of driving following an injury or illness. While driving is sometimes the best option after an injury or illness, there are situations when returning to driving is not realistic or safe for the …

Sexuality And Spinal Cord Injury: A Manual For Occupational Therapists In The Inpatient Rehabilitation Setting, Courtney Jacobson, Esada Mujcic

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The topic of sexuality has not been addressed in its entirety within the profession of occupational therapy and has been identified by patients as a need in order to receive comprehensive and holistic care (New, Seddon, Redpath, Currie, and Warren, 2016). More specifically, with 12,500 new cases of spinal cord injury (SCI) that occur each year, in addition to the significant impact on body functions that result from SCI, the topic of sexuality needs particular attention with this population (National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, 2015). The purpose of this scholarly project was to create a manual supported by literature …

Educating Caregivers In Assisted Living Facilities (Alfs) Who Care For People With Dementia, Rodney Palmer, Ashley Palmer

Occupational Therapy Capstones

It is estimated that approximately 40-71% of residents living within assisted living facilities (ALFs) have a form of dementia or other cognitive impairment (Harris- Kojetin et al., 2016; Zimmerman, Sloana, & Reed, 2014). There is also evidence that suggests that caregivers working within ALFs have inadequate knowledge on how to care for a resident diagnosed with dementia (Hughes, Bagley, Reilly, Burns, & Challis, 2008; McKenzie, Teri, Pike, LaFazia, & Van Leynseele, 2012; Sharpp, Kayser-Jones, & Young, 2012; Zimmerman et al., 2014). The authors of this scholarly project created an instructional manual that can be used to train caregivers within ALFs …

Using Evidence To Address Psychosocial Impairments Post-Stroke: A Guide For Occupational Therapy, Michael Thurn, Emilee Rath

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Introduction: Following a stroke, individuals experience a wide variety of physical and psychosocial impairments. While physical impairments are commonly given attention by medical practitioners, psychosocial impairments are often overlooked or undiagnosed. (Hildebrand, 2015). Unfortunately, the same is true in occupational therapy, where physical and psychosocial issues have not been receiving the same amount of attention, physical issues being addressed far more than psychosocial issues (Gillen, 2014). The purpose of this scholarly project is to provide occupational therapists a guide to use of current evidence-based assessments and interventions to address psychosocial impairments following stroke. The guide focuses on evidence-based assessments, and …

Identified Stressors And Coping Mechanisms Of Occupational Therapy Students, Amy Fitzsimmons, Ashley Zimmer

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Introduction: The purpose of this research study was to gather data on stressors experienced by occupational therapy students during their program and how they cope with their identified stressors. The rationale for this study was the lack of and inconsistent research regarding occupational therapy students, how they experience perceived psychological stress during their program, and how they cope with their identified stressors.

Methodology: The researchers utilized a quantitative exploratory survey design to discover perceived psychological stress and coping methods in Master’s of Occupational Therapy (MOT) students. Prior to recruitment, Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval was received. Respondents were recruited through …

A Home Away From Home: An Occupational Manual For Working With Refugee Populations, Katherine Erickson, Kari Kjergaard

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Problem: As of October 2016, over 65.3 million people have been displaced from their home due to civil wars and civil unrest; 21.3 million of this population are refugees and this number continues to grow (UNHCR, 2016). Due to the nature in which people become refugees and experience trauma, both physically and mentally, there is a rising need for health professionals to be culturally competent and well equipped to work with this population. The vast majority of refugee populations face barriers some of which include being forced to adapt to a new home environment, social isolation, language barriers, and ultimately …

Expanding The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Oncology: An Introduction To The Oncology Occupational Therapy Screening Tool And Occupational Therapy & Cancer Education Guide, Courtney Funk, Jessika Lackie

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: Cancer survivorship is growing as time progresses. The National Cancer Institute (2016) found the rate of survivorship after a cancer diagnosis was almost 14.5 million in 2014 and projected it to increase further by 2024 to nearly 19 million. This rise in cancer survivors indicates increased needs for rehabilitation services to cope with the multi-dimensional side effects of cancer and cancer treatment. Occupational therapy will be a key member of the oncology care team to improve physical, psychosocial, cognitive, and quality of life outcomes of this population. There are few resources currently available for practitioners to assist with referrals …

Leisure Occupations For Adults With Physical Disabilities: A Guide For Occupational Therapy Practice, Kelsey Glatt, Tracy Perish

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Problem: Limited research is available addressing active leisure participation and how leisure participation affects quality of life (QOL) of individuals following physical disability. Research shows a correlation between adaptive leisure participation and higher rated life satisfaction, community integration, perceived competence, and reduced negative mood states (Chun et. al., 2008; Lundberg et al., 2011a). There are currently no occupational therapy assessments for clients with physical disabilities having a goal of participation in active leisure occupations.

Purpose: To provide information and resources to occupational therapists and clients with paraplegia or lower tetraplegia spinal cord injury (SCI) in order to enhance participation in …

Perceptions Of Wellness Among Community Dwelling Older Adults, Sara Johnson, April Schmiesing

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Most older adults prefer to age in place where they are more likely to experience greater health benefits and cost savings as opposed to living in skilled care facilities. Literature supports the role of occupational therapy in community-based wellness programming that helps older adults age in place; however, there is a need to conduct needs assessments to inform wellness program topics and activities. This study explores health and wellness needs of older adults living in a low-income, senior housing complex in order to inform current health and wellness programming provided at this site.

Researchers used a non-experimental, cross-sectional survey study …

Road To Recovery: An Online Guide To Prepare Parents Of Children Who Have Sustained A Major Burn Injury For Successful Home And Community Transition, Michelle Jones, Chad Oppegaard

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Children are the most vulnerable population and represent the highest rate of nonfatal burns resulting in prolonged hospitalization, disfigurement, and disability. These injuries can be a severely stressful experience for children and their families. As a result, it is important for the patient and family members to not focus only on immediate treatment, but recognize the importance of long-term care following discharge in order to effectively reintegrate the child back into the home and community.

A literature review was conducted to investigate the key components of burn care throughout the duration of recovery. Research identified that many parents feel helpless, …

Promoting Interdisciplinary Collaboration Across School Contexts: A Toolkit For Occupational Therapists, Sidney Luers, Shayna Shaffer

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this project was to create a toolkit for occupational therapists who work within the elementary school settings to promote collaboration with teachers and other school personnel. In recent years there has been an increase in children who qualify for occupational therapy services within the school, which creates a need for collaboration with occupational therapists and teachers. Kennedy and Stewart (2011) found that while occupational therapists and teachers desire a collaborative relationship, there is little evidence supporting a way to achieve effective collaboration between the professions.

An extensive literature review was conducted in order to acquire information to …

Occupational Therapy Resource Guide For The Utilization Of Three-Dimensional Printing, Andrew Ostrander, Jacy Whaley

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Many practitioners in the field of occupational therapy are unaware of the benefits and importance of implementing a three-dimensional (3D) printer in practice indicating that there is a need for occupational therapy involving the fitting, environmental modifications, and training on how to properly use a 3D printed prosthetic within the upper extremity. 3D printing is when a digital design is converted into a designed material that has a functional purpose and different materials can be used including metal, plastics, and composite materials (Thomas & Claypole, 2016). 3D printing has many unique and effective uses like creating adaptive devices, feeding devices, …

Postsecondary Transition Services For Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Occupational Therapy Approach, Luke Van Havermaet, Lynn Bielski

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Problem: Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder comprise a rapidly growing population with approximately 1168 children being diagnosed annually (CDC, 2016). Individuals with ASD often have difficulties with social interaction, sensory processing, emotional regulation and adapting to environmental changes (Rogers, 2010). Individuals who are diagnosed early in life are provided a wide variety of services to minimize these symptoms to maximize independence later in life, and in an academic setting. As individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder come to the end of their K-12 education journey, the transition planning completed throughout the student's final year of high school are not carried out …

Sexuality And Healthcare: The Perceptions Of Providers Regarding Role Delineation: Are Occupational Therapists Overlooked?, Brooke Friederichs, Olivia Isaacson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

INTRODUCTION: The responsibility to address sexual activity is not clearly delineated to one certain healthcare profession, and therefore it often goes unaddressed (Rimmer et al., 2010). In addition, there is an overall lack of literature regarding the extent to which healthcare providers understand the role of occupational therapy in addressing sexual activity.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of the study was to explore 1) how healthcare providers (physical therapists, occupational therapists, and registered nurses) perceive role delineation when addressing patient concerns about sexual activity 2) the level to which physical therapists and registered nurses believe sexual activity is outlined in the scope …

A Health Care Provider Training Guide To Enhance Cultural Competency In Long-Term Care, Julia Mcbrien, Ashley Prososki

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The population of adults over the age of 65 in the United States is steadily increasing and becoming more diverse. Older adults are the greatest consumer of health care services, and they have unique health care needs. One notable health care need pertains to cultural beliefs and wants. When health care providers address the diverse needs of older adults, health outcomes improve for the client and communication across the interprofessional team improves. Therefore, the students of this scholarly project created a series of three, 50-minute long training sessions focused on training health care providers how to be culturally competent in …

Successful Transition To Home Following A Spinal Cord Injury: A Resource Guide For Home Modifications, Alison Ikeogu, Kelsey Kanwischer

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose

Home modification is a unique area of practice that aims to increase independence of desired tasks by decreasing the physical limitations in and around the home (Aplin, Jonge, & Gustafsson, 2014). The process of modifying the home can be difficult, decreasing emotional well-being and satisfaction (Aplin, Jonge, & Gustafsson, 2014). Studies have identified the need for home modification services for individuals post Spinal Cord Injury. Silver, Ljungberg, Libin, & Groah (2012) found that injured persons were reintegrated into the community with limited knowledge regarding housing and accessibility options. The purpose of the product was to provide a tool for …

The Experience Of Peer Mentors Within A Peer Mentor Postsecondary Transition Program, Carissa Birchem, Mikayla Greely, Suzanna Morrison

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Peer mentorship programs are one approach to assist students with disabilities to be more successful within a college community. One such program is the Student Organization for Accessibility and Resources (SOAR) which focuses on the occupations of education, social participation, and leisure activities in conjunction with assisting students in identifying available resources. However, there is limited understanding regarding these types of programs. The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of the student peer mentor’s overall experience, how the environment affected their experience, and the occupation of peer mentorship. Researchers utilized a phenomenological qualitative research method completing six …

An Assistive Technology Manual To Enhance Occupations During Stages Of Als: A Manual For Occupational Therapists And Caregivers, Warren Ross, Marcus Sickler

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to develop a manual for occupational therapists and caregivers that provides assistive technology suggestions to address the needs of an individual with ALS at each stage of the disease.

Methods: An extensive literature review was completed on ALS and assistive technology to examine the effects of ALS, course of progression of the disease, variations of the disease, and signs and symptoms. Multiple online databases were utilized including: CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, Academic Search Premier, Google Scholar, and OT search. Further literature reviewed included current assistive technology individuals with ALS found useful related to communication, …

Addressing Sleep Deficiencies In Older Adult Residents Of Long-Term Care Facilities: Presenting A Flowchart For An Interdisciplinary Approach, Peter Owens, Tavin Deru

Occupational Therapy Capstones

There is a growing population of older adults, or those people over 65 years old in long term care (LTC) facilities who report sleep deficiencies at a heightened rate, leading to decrease function, cognition, and social participation while increasing mortality, morbidity and the risk of falling (Booth & McMilliam, 2009; Cipolli, Mazzetti, & Plazzi, 2013; Crowley, 2011; Dzierewski et al., 2014; Helbig et al., 2013; Kuck, Pantke, & Flick, 2015). Occupational therapists (OTs) offer non-pharmacological sleep interventions in the long-term care facilities but are not present at many relevant sleeping times. This scholarly project is a flow chart aid to …

Female Veterans And Homelessness: A Resource Guide For Occupational Therapists, Jamie Schacht, Alison Tonsager

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Female veterans are the fastest growing subpopulation among the homeless population in the United States (U.S.) (Boothe, 2017). Female veterans report lack of access to gender-specific programs and therapy groups within the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to meet specific needs post-deployment (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2015b). Difficulty with reintegration post-deployment has been linked with homelessness among female veterans. There is evidence to support female veterans' over-representation in the homeless population is due to a higher prevalence of risk factors for homelessness as compared to male veterans and females within the general population (Byrne, Montgomery, & Dichter, …

Assisting Clients With Psychosocial Adjustment After Sustainment Of A Traumatic Hand Injury: A Therapist's Guide, Rachel Kos, Jessica Nordmeyer

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: Adaptation to psychosocial aspects of hand injury is often undervalued, yet a critical issue to address in traumatic hand injuries (Schier & Chan, 2007). The purpose of this scholarly project was to develop a guide to address such factors in a hand therapy setting.

Methodology: A review of the literature was conducted to demonstrate the importance of hands, psychosocial implications related to hand trauma, and current strategies used by practitioners to address these problem. Findings of the literature review concluded that the most prevalent psychological factors related to hand injuries include mood and trauma disorder symptomatology, problems related to …

Promoting A Culture Of Mental Health And Wellness At The Smhs: Smhs Wellness Program, Brian Lefavour, Alexa Martel

Occupational Therapy Capstones

McManus (2007) indicates that healthcare professionals, who are highly committed and involved in their profession, often experience stress and burnout. A multitude of stressors effect health care professionals, including time restraints, workload, multiple roles, and emotional investment in the career (McCann et aI., 2013). Jennings (2009) makes the connection that stress does not begin when medical students enter the workforce, but starts during their academic preparation as well. Allied health profession students and professionals are not exempt from experiencing considerable stress and burnout (Harris, Cumming, & Campbell, 2005; Othman, Farooqui, Yusoff, & Adawaiyah, 20\3). Harris and colleagues (2005) found that …

Open Access Continuing Education Occupational Therapy Resources For Rural Communities, Amber L. Daly, Emily E. Germolus

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Occupational therapists working in rural areas face a number of barriers when trying to access continuing education courses, which are required to maintain licensure. Some of the largest barriers these practitioners face include: time, cost of the courses, and ease of access. Continuing education often requires travelling, time out of one’s day, and a fee ranging from $25-$300 (North Dakota Occupational Therapy Association [NDOTA], 2016; Continuing education, 2013). The purpose of this scholarly project is to address continuing education requirement-related needs and education access for occupational therapists working in rural areas. Following the completion of a comprehensive literature review and …