Occupational Therapy Commons^™

Adaptive Seating, Julie Jones, Mckayla Wallace, Marisa Given, Nisha Rustia, George Cardenas

Occupational Therapy Student Research

Children’s sensory needs are impacting their ability to attend to their speech language pathology treatment sessions in a meaningful and effective way. There is a gap in the education for SLPs on sensory integration which limits their ability to recognize the challenges and know how to support them in a productive way.

Weighted Devices For Somatosensory Regulation, Bri Swain, Kaelyn Obryan, Lauren Magat, Nik Gargiulo, Hailey Houck

Occupational Therapy Student Research

Description: A weighted vest is a vest that typically has 10% of a person’s body weight evenly distributed around the vest (Olson et al., 2004). A weighted vest can provide sensory input that is believed to alleviate dysregulation, inattentiveness, and stereotypic behaviors (Carter et al., 2009).

Goal: Our community group is specifically targeting children with sensory processing impairments who are attending speech therapy sessions at the RiteCare clinic. Sensory behaviors exhibited by the clients are most commonly shown through dysregulation, outbursts, inattentiveness, and hyperactivity. The goal is to limit these maladaptive behaviors and increase attention span during intervention sessions. Weighted …

Insight Timer, Jocelyn Ong Najera, Joshua Mark Dano, Staphany Jimenez, Arthur Lui, Nancy Smith

Occupational Therapy Student Research

Mission Statement: To provide cost-effective avenues for tangible stress reduction and relief for low-income communities such as Wellspring.

Overview: Insight Timer is a mobile application that offers guided meditation to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, manage stress, sleep deeply, and improve happiness. While also offering calm music, courses, live events, and workshops in various languages. (Insight Network, Inc., n.d.)

Problem Statement: Individuals who face poverty experience mental challenges due to stressors caused by poverty due to insecurity and uncertainty about food, housing, and income. Low-income communities tend to have limited resources, poor housing, experience high crime rates, violence rate, and …

The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Treating Developmental Trauma In Appalachia, Carrie A. Williams

Occupational Therapy Research Projects

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate and determine the knowledge and education of occupational therapy practitioners who evaluate and treat developmental trauma in Appalachia and adjacent counties by answering the following research questions. 1.) What is the level of education, years of experience, and what formal diagnosis practitioners received on referrals? 2.) Are practitioners satisfied with resources to treat trauma histories? Do they participate in self-learning activities, and what disciplines do practitioners find in their self-learning education? 3.) What theoretical frameworks and assessment tools do practitioners utilize to develop treatment plans? 4.) What are the barriers to treatment when children …

Development Of Professional Behaviors In Occupational Therapy Students: Program Design, Addie Burnham

Occupational Therapy Research Projects

Abstract

Many factors are considered when relating student preparedness to successful clinical experiences. This literature sought to identify the gaps and understand the graduate student experience concerning professional behaviors. Specific behaviors were identified and guidelines established by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (American Council for Occupational Therapy Education, 2020) were used to create a program to address professional behaviors of communication and professionalism. The created program incorporated hands-on learning experiences versus high or low-fidelity simulations to teach professional behaviors and promote self-awareness of the student. The information gained through this research has added to the body of knowledge …

The Effects Of Sensory Processing On Mask-Wearing, Sarah Slone, B.S., S/Ot, Tylar Stambaugh, B.S., S/Ot, Anna Weneck, B.S., S/Ot, Emily Yeager, B.A., S/Ot, Barbara Warnock, Dhsc, Otr/L, Christine Raber, Phd, Otr/L

Occupational Therapy Research Projects

Abstract

Purpose: The global coronavirus pandemic has changed how people participate in life. Wearing a mask has become a normal aspect of daily routines due to public mandates, yet masks tend to create difficulties with ability to process stimuli within the environment and can potentially interrupt participation within life. There is little research into effects of mask-wearing on sensory processing for all ages as it is a recent pandemic.

Method: An online survey was used to describe mask-wearing habits of college-aged adults and impact on sensory experiences. An additional optional interview, which included completion of the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile, further …

Master Of Occupational Therapy Students' Use Of Problem-Solving Strategies Of Clinical Reasoning Identified Following Level Ii Fieldwork, Katie Bolen. B.S., S/Ot, Alexis Palazzo, B.S., S/Ot, Ashley Eldridge, B.S., S/Ot, Jacob Kelp, B.S., S/Ot, Audra Nieves, B.S., S/Ot, Ann Marie Allen M.S., Otr/L

Occupational Therapy Research Projects

Abstract

A pre-experimental, quantitative, descriptive study was completed to identify patterns of the problem-solving strategies used in the clinical reasoning process by master of occupational therapy students during level II fieldwork placement. The research team developed a survey including 7 demographic questions with 12 problem-solving strategy questions created around the concepts of: algorithm, heuristic, trial and error, and insight. The survey was created in SurveyMonkey and the link to the survey was sent to 3 master of occupational therapy programs. Only students who had completed level II fieldwork placement, prior to taking the national board certification exam, were included. Eleven …

The Role Of Occupational Therapy In School-Aged Youth Literacy: A Scoping Review, Beth Thomas, Kierstin Hensley, Rachel Nordmoe, Samantha Willis, Tanner Shepherd

Occupational Therapy Research Projects

Abstract

Since the passage of the IDEA Act in 1975, pediatric occupational therapists have been working to improve children’s literacy skills. From the sensory-based assessment and interventions of Ayres (1972) to the Occupations of Reading Practice Model created by Grajo and Chandler (2017), the field of occupational therapy has come a long way in understanding how to treat children with deficits in reading, writing, and other forms of communication. The goal of this study was to understand how occupational therapists are currently working with school-aged youth concerning their literacy skills. Six databases were searched using terms related to occupational therapy …

Mental Health And Education Staff Perspectives Of Occupational Functioning Of Court-Involved Youth With A History Of Substance Use, Mikel Stone, Otd, Otr/L, Adam Kantor, B.S., S/Ot, Bailey Bowen, B.S., S/Ot, Hope Moore, B.S., S/Ot, Jacob Dobrowolski, B.A., S/Ot, Morgan Delong, B.S., S/Ot

Occupational Therapy Research Projects

This mixed-methods descriptive survey study investigated the occupational functioning of court-involved youth with a history or risk of substance use, from the perspectives of mental health and education staff, within a rural, Mid-western county. Millions of Americans suffer from some form of substance use disorder (The National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2017). According to The National Survey on Drug and Health, 23% of the youth population have reportedly tried and illicit drug (SAMHSA, 2016) and as little as 10% of the youth population are receiving treatment (NIDA, 2014). The purpose of this study was to implement a mixed-methods …

The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Adult Critical Care In Ohio, Taylor Stanford, Otr/L

Occupational Therapy Research Projects

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the barriers and supports in the delivery of OT services, identify current OT-specific protocols, and explore opinions on critical care certification and OT-specific ICU best practice guidelines.

Methods: A non-experimental descriptive data collection study with the use of an online survey. The secure survey link was embedded via email and sent to 10,000 Ohio occupational therapy practitioners. Inclusion criteria were licensed therapists (OTR and COTA) with past or current experience in adult critical care. The primary researcher developed survey questions focused on practitioners’ perspectives and personal experiences with critical care …

Content Validity And Inter-Rater Reliability Of The Assessment Of Occupational Functioning- Collaborative Version, Joanna R. Deal, B.S., S/Ot, Anna E. Legge, B.A., S/Ot, Kimberly M.E. Martens, B.S., S/Ot, Kyla M. Rockwell, B.A., S/Ot, Jacob A. Russell, B.S., S/Ot, Christine Raber, Phd, Otr/L

Occupational Therapy Research Projects

Abstract

Purpose: This psychometric study examined the content validity and inter-rater reliability of the Assessment of Occupational Functioning-Collaborative Version (AOF-CV) through content validity index and percent agreement, to determine clinical usefulness and alignment with the current version of the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO). Method: Data was gathered in two phases over four months. The first phase gathered inter-rater reliability through administering the AOF-CV virtually to college students. Percent agreement was determined using AOF-CV ratings completed by two teams of two raters per team. The second phase gathered content validity data from a MOHO content expert using a content validity …

Evaluating Literacy Sensitive Client Education Materials For The Smmart Clinic, Mckenzie Brink, Kelsey L. Colvin, Kelsey Holmer, Rachel G. Kullas, Paige M. Loy, Alexander W. Manos, Gretta N. Obeid, Kelly O'Connor, Allison Park

Graduate Projects & Research

This master’s project was completed in collaboration with the St. Mary’s Medical and Rehabilitative Therapies (SMMART) Clinic, located on the campus of St. Catherine University in St. Paul, Minnesota. Through the completion of literature reviews, a needs assessment, and project activities, nine graduate occupational therapy students analyzed the needs of this clinic and aimed to improve client care. The SMMART clinic serves primarily Spanish-speaking clients who are low-income, uninsured, or underinsured. This population often faces obstacles in accessing primary health care and rehabilitation, including language and literacy-related barriers. Occupational therapy can play an important role in addressing these barriers and …

Occupational Therapy's Role In Transition Planning For Students With Learning Differences And The Significance Of The Kawa Model, Rita Marzeena, Jazminne Orozco-Arteaga, Holly Reed

Fall 2022 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project seeks to define the role of occupational therapy in supporting a high school to college and career transition program by providing occupation-based interventions for the unique needs of students in the classroom. Using the KAWA Model, the students begin on a journey of self-discovery to identify the individual supports, strengths and barriers that help them to understand the factors that influence their life. In this process, the KAWA Model attempts to merge the holistic approach that is common in the western themes of occupational therapy with the expectations and trajectory that is common of a secondary student …

Work Performance And Participation Of Individuals During The Covid- 19 Pandemic: An Evidence-Based Practice Project, Mckenzie Bohlig, Maggie Buechler, Kinsale Morrow, Sydney Sirek, Susan Strawhacker, Alison Tokkesdal, Hannah Zuengler

Graduate Occupational Therapy Research and Projects

No abstract provided.

Professional Perspectives On Bilingualism In Persons With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot Study, Rosa N. Benavidez Saldivar, Jessica R. Stewart, Ruth Crutchfield, Roy K. Chen, Lily Puente

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The present study examined the perspectives of professionals regarding bilingualism and ASD. Methods: A total of 27 professionals participated in this study. Data was collected via an online survey. The survey was designed based on a literature review and consultation with a team of experts in the field of ASD. Information relating to demographic information, professional practice information, and perspectives of bilingualism and ASD was collected. Results: Professionals participating in the present study were most likely to agree with the statement, “A child with ASD from a bilingual household is able to understand both languages” and least likely to …

The Clinical Value Of Oculomotor Assessments Across The Continuum Of Concussion, Dillon Richards

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Concussions are complex conditions that are difficult to manage medically. Variations in symptom presentation, intricate neurophysiological processes, and the availability of a variety of possible assessment tools may contribute to this complexity. Clinicians must use a broad approach, employing both subjective symptom assessment and objective assessments to confirm a diagnosis and/or monitor progression and recovery. Oculomotor function after concussion may be an important indicator of injury, given the interconnectedness of oculomotor function, vestibulo-ocular and visual systems, and even cognition. Oculomotor function may be assessed objectively or indirectly using patient-reported symptom checklists as part of subjective assessments. One way of objectively …

Social Isolation, Third Places, And Precarious Employment Circumstances: A Scoping Review, Debbie Laliberte Rudman, Rebecca M. Aldrich

Occupational Therapy Publications

No abstract provided.

Sensory Adaptive Environment To Enhance Participation In Healthcare For Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Interdisciplinary Design Thinking Approach, Lady Rios-Vega, Otd, Otr/L, Amy Carroll, Otd, Otr/L, Rachel L. Dumont, Otr/L, Dianne Treadwell-Deering, Md, Matthew Fields, Md, Roseann C. Schaaf, Phd, Otr/L, Faota

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

Introduction/Background

• Participation in healthcare for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be overwhelming resulting in stressful responses safety concerns.¹
• Sensory features impact healthcare participation.
• Up to 84% of individuals with ASD experience atypical sensory features of : - Hyper or hypo reactivity to sensation.²
  - Unusual sensory interests in the environment.²
  - Poor sensory integration.²
• Families may refrain from participation in medical care to prevent negative experiences, contributing to occupational deprivation.¹
• Sensory Adaptive Environments (SAE) may improve participation for autistic persons.^1,3,4

The Simulated Café: A Virtually Delivered Pre-Employment Transition Program For Students With Autism, Leah Haller, Otd, Otr/L, Amy Carroll, Otd, Otr/L

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

Introduction

• Fewer than half the young adults diagnosed with autism are employed (Gotham et al., 2015; Chiang, et al, 2013).
• Individuals diagnosed with autism have a higher rate of unemployment compared to those with other disabilities (Buescher et al., 2014).
• Educators of individuals diagnosed with autism stress employment as a desired and measured outcome (Schall et al. 2012).
• Parents of individuals diagnosed with autism rated employment support as the greatest service priority (Neary et al.,2015).
• Individuals diagnosed with autism are 7.36 times more likely to be in paid employment if they receive vocational services (Park & Bouk, 2018).
• In the …

Exploring Community Recreation And Leisure Of Young Adults With Autism, Alexandria Taylor, Otd, Otr/L, Eis, Amy Carroll, Otd, Otr/L

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

Introduction

• Adults with autism participate less in the community compared to adults with other diagnoses (e.g., intellectual disability, emo tional disturbance, and learning disabilities) (Myers et al., 2015; Orsmond et al., 2013).
• Quantitative studies have shown the benefits of participating in recreation and leisure activities for young adults with auti sm (Bishop Fitzpatrick et al., 2017; Garcia Villamisar & Dattilo, 2010; Stacey et al., 2019).
• The use of qualitative research has been recommended to offer a deeper understanding (Stacey et al., 2019).
• The lack of opportunity for young adults with autism to share their experiences and opinions can lead to …