Digital Commons Network^™

Bridging Theory And Practice: Aquatic Occupational Therapy For Functional Rehabilitation In Parkinson’S Disease, Chelsea L. Tate

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstones

The purpose of the Doctoral Capstone Experience and Project is to develop a theoretical framework and supporting program to guide the application of aquatic interventions specific to Parkinson’s disease treatment, while highlighting the therapeutic benefits that can be integrated into occupational therapy practice. The framework and program focus on improving overall physicality, cognitive, and functional performance for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Care For The Carer: A Program For Caregivers & Their Loved One, Luke Allen

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstones

The purpose of the Doctoral Capstone Project is to reduce the burden experienced by dementia caregivers due to unmet physical, mental, and social needs. To meet this objective, CAREpackages with resources pertinent to dementia caregiving, with accompanying Dementia Difficulty educational videos will be delivered to families from low socio-economic backgrounds in the Northeast Arkansas community.

Bridging The Gap Between Occupational Therapy & Animal-Assisted Therapy (Aat), Aspen Campbell Smith

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstones

The Doctoral Capstone Project involves developing advocacy resources to support occupational therapy practitioners in the ethical, safe, and effective integration of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) into clinical practice. The tools aim to increase practitioner awareness, support ethical decision-making, and promote client-centered, evidence-based animal-assisted therapy services.

Roadwell: An Occupational Therapy-Based Telehealth Platform To Improve Wellness Among Over-The-Road Truck Drivers, Phylecia G. Mason

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstones

This doctoral capstone project aimed to design and implement RoadWell, a mobile wellness platform usingthe Person–Environment–Occupation–Performance (PEOP) model, to improve occupational performance and well-being. RoadWell addresses the interaction between the person, environment, and occupation by delivering real-time, evidence-informed strategies that meet drivers where they are—in their real work environments, doing real work.

Rooted In Play: Empowering Development Through Nature-Based Occupational Therapy, Nicole Roper

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstones

The doctoral capstone project included advocating for the use of outdoor play by identifying and emphasizing the benefits of occupational therapy (OT) involvement within nature-based therapy for pediatric patients and creating nature-based therapy recourses for caregivers and occupational therapists.

Impaired Mental Health In Adolescents: Socioeconomically Challenged Geographic Locations, Brittany E. Kunkel

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstones

This capstone project aligns occupational therapy strategies with the environmental, social, and institutional contexts that shape adolescent mental health, enabling holistic and culturally responsive interventions that address not only individual needs but also broader systemic influences.

More Than A Crown: Creating Leaders And Connecting Communities, Grace Addison Ross

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstones

More than a Crown is a doctoral capstone experience (DCE) that promotes community integration for girls with intellectual disabilities by enhancing their leadership skills. Participants engage in a six-week leadership program that focuses on developing the following skills: confidence, poise, creativity, self-exploration, conversation, and active listening.

Utilizing Animal-Assisted Therapy To Address Pyschosocial Implications Of The Geriatric Population In A Residential Facility, Blaire Kennon Bassham

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstones

Older adults in residential care frequently experience psychosocial challenges such as isolation, depression, and reduced engagement in meaningful activity. Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), when integrated into occupational therapy, offers a powerful, evidence-based means to address these concerns by promoting emotional well-being, social connection, and purposeful interaction. This capstone project leveraged AAT as a therapeutic intervention specifically designed to meet psychosocial needs.

An Examination Of The Role Of Recreational Therapy In Forensic And Correctional Settings, Sarah R. Fischer

All Dissertations

The estimated prevalence of adults, age 18 and older, with serious mental illness (SMI) in the United States is approximately 6% (NIMH, 2022a). Having a mental illness places individuals at higher risk for arrest and incarceration (NAMI, n.d.b) where they receive treatment, including recreational therapy (RT) in state hospitals, jails or prisons. The purpose of this multi-method study was to gain a better understanding of the role of RT in treating adults with SMI in forensic and correctional settings. A non-standardized 122-item cross-sectional survey (n=49) was used to identify what interventions recreational therapists are using, for what intended outcomes; and …

Unbridled Healing: Identifying The Barriers Of Equine-Assisted Therapy, Sally A. Hamm

Human Development and Family Sciences Undergraduate Honors Theses

Despite the documented benefits of equine-assisted therapy (EAT) for mental health conditions, this complementary approach remains underutilized. This qualitative study investigated barriers preventing wider EAT implementation by examining challenges faced by clients, facilities, and volunteers. Data collected through open-ended surveys from 33 participants and the researcher's autoethnographic observations revealed eight common barriers: Accessibility (48 mentions), Money (43), Time (30), Awareness (23), Physical Factors (13), Relationships (13), Risk (13), and Weather (7). Clients identified financial constraints as their primary barrier, particularly insurance limitations. Facilitators struggled most with accessibility challenges, including lack of resources, trained staff, suitable horses, and appropriate facilities. Volunteers …

Medication Assisted Treatment - The End In Mind, Nandita C. Kapur, Annas Aljassem

Posters

• Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is defined as a problematic pattern of substance use causing significant impairment or distress, and it is a leading cause injury deaths1 in the U.S.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), using methadone (full agonist) and buprenorphine (partial agonist/antagonist), is the gold standard for OUD2 , stabilizing patients by alleviating withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
• • Stigma and skepticism about MAT's effectiveness hinder its adoption in acute care settings3.
• More research is needed to overcome misconceptions and enhance the efficacy of MAT in hospitals since it is the first point of contact for patients.
• This project aims to educate patients …

A Multidisciplinary Approach To Brachial Plexus Birth Injury: An Overview And Institutional Experience, Winston R Owens, Vamsi C Mohan, Diego M Quirarte, John D Bovill, Gabrielle T Nguyen, James H Northcutt Ii, Jenny Lee Nguyen, William C Pederson

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Without early diagnosis and intervention, brachial plexus birth injuries (BPBIs) can result in permanent upper extremity debilitation. Previously, BPBI was treated by single-specialty surgeons; however, given the complexity of the injury, BPBIs necessitate multidisciplinary team care. Common specialists involved within brachial plexus injury clinics include radiologists, physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, occupational therapists, nerve surgeons, and shoulder surgeons. Care plans are meticulously designed by all team members, and depending on injury severity and clinical course, patients may undergo treatment including range-of-motion exercises, splinting, botulinum toxin injections, nerve surgery, or shoulder surgery. The objective of this article is to highlight and …

Identifying Predictors Of Student Success During Occupational Therapy Level Ii Fieldwork, Melissa R. Foster

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The training paradigm for new occupational therapy (OT) practitioners includes both didactic classroom learning and clinical fieldwork experiences in order for them to establish clinical competency. However, many students struggle with the theory-to-practice gap of translating classroom knowledge to clinical experiences. When students struggle in this manner, it causes stress for all stakeholders involved, including the fieldwork educator, clinic managers, OT program faculty, as well as the student.

This study aims to avoid this stress by identifying predictors of student success by analyzing data from recent graduates of the University of Arkansas/University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences OT program through …

Resistance Exercise Dose Effects On Muscle Morphology, Muscle Function And Quality Of Life In Advanced-Stage Ovarian Cancer Survivors, Christelle Schofield, Marit Mol, Dennis R. Taaffe, Laurien M. Buffart, Pedro Lopez, Robert U. Newton, Daniel A. Galvão, Paul A. Cohen, Carolyn J. Peddle-Mcintyre

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: Advanced-stage ovarian cancer survivors often have compromised muscle morphology (muscle mass and density), muscle function (muscle strength and physical function), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We recently reported improvements in these outcomes following resistance training. Information on the resistance exercise dose required to improve health-related outcomes is still lacking in this cancer group. Here we examined the exercise dose delivered and the effect of the delivered dose on changes in outcomes of interest. Methods: Twelve women with stage III or IV ovarian cancer completed a 12-week supervised resistance exercise intervention. Exercise metrics included compliance (exercise dose completed), dose …

Voices From The Journey: Exploring Rehabilitation Experience Of Individuals With Disabilities In A South African Province, Senzelwe M. Mazibuko, Thayananthee Nadasan Dr, Pragashnie Govender

Patient Experience Journal

Background: Globally, 16% of the population is affected by disabilities, with increasing prevalence due to non-communicable diseases and longer lifespans. This group often faces shorter lifespans, poorer health, and greater challenges than non-disabled peers. Rehabilitation services are essential for improving independence, health, and quality of life by facilitating participation in education, work, and social roles. However, in South Africa, particularly in rural areas, providing these services is difficult. Methods: This qualitative study explored the experiences of people with disabilities in KwaZulu-Natal regarding their interactions with rehabilitation services. Six participants were recruited from a private facility using purposive sampling to …

Asthma Exacerbation In Pregnancy And The Effects On The Fetus, Jaclyn Vanberkum, Daisy Ramirez, Julia Gonazlez, Haneen Kittaneh

RESP 1102 Intermediate Respiratory Care

Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting pregnant women and poses notable risks to both maternal and fetal health. Inadequate asthma control during pregnancy is associated with increased complications such as preeclampsia, preterm delivery and low birth weight. As a result, effective asthma management is essential throughout gestation. This paper explores the physiological changes in pregnancy that influence asthma, the potential consequences of uncontrolled symptoms and evidence-based treatment approaches. Current clinical guidelines emphasize the importance of inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators while minimizing systemic steroid use. Patient education, regular monitoring and a multidisciplinary approach are key to optimizing …

Effects Of Secondhand Smoke, Rebecca Maplethorpe,, Jodi Matesi, Evelyn Nieves

RESP 1102 Intermediate Respiratory Care

The respiratory effects of secondhand smoke (SHS) are numerous throughout all populations. Studies show that patients are more likely to develop respiratory diseases if they grow up in a household with one or more smokers. SHS is linked to increased rates of many respiratory conditions such as Asthma, Tuberculosis (TB), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Lung Cancer, and Perioperative respiratory complications. This paper will focus on the impact of secondhand smoke on individuals, in utero to 18 years of age. However, since some conditions are not seen until later in life, adult patients will also be noted. Additionally, the issues …

Management Of Cystic Fibrosis With Diet And Exercise, Chuck Hultmark, Maggie Mcdermott, Daisy Monge, Christian Ninan

RESP 1102 Intermediate Respiratory Care

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a chronic genetic condition that significantly impacts respiratory and digestive health. This paper explores how structured nutritional strategies combined with regular physical activities can improve outcomes for individuals with CF, including enhanced lung function, healthier weight gain, and reduced hospital admissions. Excessive mucus production impairs digestion and nutrient absorption, increasing the need for caloric intake and micronutrients. According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (n.d.), individuals with CF require 1.5 to 2 times the daily caloric intake of those without CF. This paper highlights the importance of ongoing nutritional assessments such as BMI, micronutrient levels, glucose tolerance …

Understanding High Altitude Pulmonary Edema And Impact On Overall Health, Diana Ricardez, Gregory Harris, Trucly Quach, Arpitha Singh

RESP 1102 Intermediate Respiratory Care

This paper examines the symptoms, pathophysiology, genetics, prevention, and treatment of HAPE. It also includes a brief overview on its manifestation in children and the radiographic spectrum of the disease. This review also addresses some of the cases of high-altitude pulmonary edema. High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), is a life-threatening condition where there is fluid accumulated in the lungs. HAPE is a condition where the effects are completely reversible, which is why it is crucial for patients to have adequate and timely treatment. High altitude pulmonary edema, (HAPE), is a non-cardiogenic form of edema that can be life-threatening if not …

The Feasibility Of A Telerehabilitation Screening Protocol For Wheelchair Follow-Up In A Rural Clinic: A Pilot Exploration, Rachel G. Taylor

Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Innovations in OT Symposium: Transforming Possibilities into Practice

Objective: This capstone project aimed to determine the feasibility of a telerehabilitation approach to wheelchair follow-up care coordination within the East Carolina University Student Run Clinic (SRC). Methods: A Wheelchair Follow-Up Protocol was developed and piloted with a student clinician. Guided by the AHRQ Care Coordination Measurement Framework, this 9-week feasibility project was completed in 3 steps: (1) resource and process development, (2) student training, (3) implementation and data collection. Quantitative and qualitative pilot data were collected from the student clinician who completed the Wheelchair Follow-Up Protocol to examine the feasibility and acceptability of the protocol. Questions included …

Optimizing The Well-Being Of Residents Diagnosed With Dementia: An Activities Calendar And Guide For Cognitive And Physical Engagement, Kaylex L. Monteagudo Parra

Undergraduate Theses

This thesis explores the critical role of structured activities in enhancing the cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being of individuals with dementia. Drawing on evidence-based research and practical experience as an Activities Assistant, it emphasizes how engaging, person-centered activities can mitigate symptoms, improve quality of life, and promote social interaction across the stages of disease progression. The research culminates in the development of an ideal activities calendar tailored to patients with dementia, accompanied by a comprehensive guide detailing activity benefits, implementation strategies, and required resources. This framework addresses the unique challenges of dementia care, offering practical tools for caregivers to adapt …

One Pulse At A Time: Exploring Spinal Cord Stimulator Anatomy To Enhance M1 Medical Education, Matthew Tufts, Sruthi Shriram, Arush Rao, Ariel Banks, Ragad Almsaddi, Gabrielle Abdelmessih, Varna Taranikanti

Posters

No abstract provided.

Inequities In The Rehabilitation Process Of Musculoskeletal Injuries In Maine, Devon A. Grant

Thinking Matters Symposium

Since 2016, Maine’s population has grown as a result of migration and a welcoming of refugees. Changes in state demographics influence the population’s and individuals’ social determinants of health (SDOH) (ie., “where people live, learn, work, and play”) and health literacy (ie., a person’s ability to find, understand, and use information to inform health-related decisions). This project aims to identify the health inequities or disparities throughout Southern Maine in the care of injuries to the lower extremity, such as the knee or ankle, as well as explore factors that influence the healthcare outcomes of athletes in surrounding communities. This study …

Effects Of Acute Exercise On Cognition: Consideration Of Potential Moderators, Elizabeth G. Gaines, Mckenzie M. Cotten, Elizabeth Reese Carwile, Mary Griffin Jackson, Marascalco Liston, Lucy Wilson

Honors Theses

The present thesis aims to determine the effects, if any, of six potential moderators on the effects of acute moderate-intensity exercise on cognitive functioning. The modes of exercise undertaken by the participants included treadmill (Experiment 1) and stationary bike (Experiment 2) exercise. Participants in each experiment either exercised or rested for twenty minutes and then participated in either a memory recall task or cognitive functioning (“Stroop”) task. The bouts of either exercise or rest on the stationary bike were followed by a rest period during which the participant would be exposed to either standard air oxygen levels (normoxia) or hypoxic …

Aquatic Based Exercise For Adults With Lymphedema To Improve Quality Of Life, Abigail Bancroft, Cassandra Nelson

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Individuals diagnosed with lymphedema can face physical, emotional, and psychosocial complications. Since lymphedema is a lifelong condition, symptom management is crucial to an individual’s daily routine and well-being. Aquatic therapy is an approach where individuals perform exercises in the water, and the characteristics of the water provide many benefits for lymphedema. The purpose of this capstone was to develop an aquatic-based exercise program for individuals with lymphedema to increase social participation and improve overall quality of life. Increasing the awareness of aquatic therapy for lymphedema can educate individuals and occupational therapists on another treatment option to help manage lymphedema symptoms.

Educational Program For Individuals With Spinal Cord Injuries Over Bowel And Bladder Management, Hannah H. Bacino, Rebecca King, Leah Holderbaum

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-altering event that impacts many domains of an individual's life. Individuals may experience a decreased ability to participate in meaningful activities and a loss of voluntary body functions. The most common symptom following an SCI is loss of voluntary bowel and bladder control. Literature highlights the importance of education on bowel and bladder management following a SCI. However, there is a lack of accessible and comprehensive education on this topic for individuals affected by an SCI. To address this problem, an educational resource was created. The purpose of the educational resource was to …

The Inner Blueprint: Unlocking Your 24/7 Potential, Mackenzie Zurcher, Becky King

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Inner Blueprint is a trauma-informed, occupation-based intervention designed to address the complex needs of adolescent girls with histories of trauma, substance use, and mental health conditions. Grounded in occupational science, the program emphasizes the integration of brain function, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and hormonal influence to promote self-awareness, resilience, identity development, self-worth, and functional independence. The intervention incorporates manualized content delivered through interactive group activities, reflective exercises, and routine-based skill building to support gains in emotional regulation, self-concept development, and daily life performance. A central therapeutic emphasis is placed on enhancing interoceptive awareness and empowering participants to recognize that their …

Program For Caregivers Caring For Children With Juvenile Arthritis, Elizabeth M. Lette-Fortune, Mary Jan Greer, Lee Ann Hoffman

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone program aims to educate and support children with juvenile rheumatic diseases (JRDs) and their caregivers, addressing the lack of educational resources available for families. The program conducted a needs assessment, developed targeted educational content, and covered topics such as flare management, treatment options, and caregiver support. The initiative was evaluated for its effectiveness in improving caregiver knowledge, reducing stress, and enhancing the quality of life for children with JRDs.

An Ot Web-Based Program For Assessing And Treating Vision Deficits In Tbis, Brooklynn Bycott, Rebecca King, Jaimee Fielder

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project supported occupational therapists in addressing vision deficits associated with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) through a web-based educational program. The program focused on assessment strategies, intervention techniques and strategies, and caregiver education. Guided by the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance model and the Occupational Adaptation frame of reference, the project promoted occupational engagement and improved quality of life for individuals with vision deficits associated with TBIs and their caregivers by increasing clinicians’ confidence and knowledge.

Nourishing Skills: Online Education Materials For The General Pediatric Feeding Therapist, Hannah Cox

Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Innovations in OT Symposium: Transforming Possibilities into Practice

Introduction: There has been a rise in pediatric feeding difficulties, with up to 50% of typically developing children and 89% of children with developmental disabilities having a variation of feeding difficulties (Benjasuwantep et al., 2013). With occupational therapy (OT) being a field of practice that addresses activities of daily living and developmental milestones, it is imperative that providers are prepared to treat this population. Methods: Four REDcap surveys were completed by stakeholder groups to determine knowledge gaps and training methodology amongst pediatric therapy providers (Harris et al 2009, 2019). With 233 survey responses, results were gathered nationwide (123 clinicians, 39 …