Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Train-The-Trainer Office Ergonomics Program, Aaron Schenck

Occupational Therapy Capstones

It may be a common perception in the general public that the daily tasks carried out in an office environment are not typically considered physical demanding. Office tasks, such as typing, filling out forms and filing paperwork typically do not require a significant amount of force. Work tasks associated within an office environment, especially computer use, can increase stress on the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles, tendons and nerves over time (Department of Labor, 2005). This can result in what is called musculoskeletal disorders (MSD),s.

The negative impact of MSDs affects employers through decreased work attendance, productivity …

Alzheimer's Toolbox: A Caregiver's Guide, Kristen Eastwood, Gerry Smith

Occupational Therapy Capstones

“Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in North America and Europe” and “accounts for sixty percent of all irreversible dementia cases” (Moore, 2003, p. 50,126). Along with the 4.5 million Americans who suffer from Alzheimer’s, there are also the caregivers who are suffering alongside their loved one. The stress of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming. This affects the quality of life for those with Alzheimer’s and the health of the caregiver.

A comprehensive literature review was conducted to explore and identify effective techniques and interventions, pertinent to both the caregiver and patient's …

The Development Of A Sensory Integration Room For Individuals With Developmental Disabilities, Christine Foy, Samantha Schepers

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Current literature has identified that there is an increasing population of individuals experiencing sensory integration dysfunction. The current literature tends to focus on the use of sensory integration therapy for the use of treating sensory integration dysfunction with children. There has been a gap in the research on the effectiveness on the use of sensory integration therapy in adults experiencing sensory integration dysfunction.

An extensive review of current literature regarding sensory integration dysfunction and the use of sensory integration therapy was conducted and through this information a sensory room protocol was developed. This sensory room protocol includes: guidelines for use, …

Competencies And Physical Agent Modalities: An Investigation Of Clinical And Ethical Implications, Casey A. Lambert

Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations

Occupational therapy has evolved from its early inception in diversional therapy to incorporate technologically advanced modalities into the professional domain. Over the last thirty years the profession has increasingly incorporated physical agent modalities (PAMs) into the treatment process. Throughout this process there has been both opposition and support for the inclusion of PAMs in occupational therapy. There are concerns from both sides regarding the proper training of therapists in the use of PAMs, how competency should be assessed, who is responsible for ensuring competency, and the ethical concerns with the use of these modalities.

This phenomenological study analyzed six therapists’ …

Birth To Three Early Intervention Parent Handbook, Sarah C. Nicholas

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this study was to investigate family-centered advocacy in early intervention, specifically the development of a parent handbook for families of young children who are eligible to receive early intervention services in Wyoming. Early intervention programs provide services for children with disabilities ages birth to three and their families under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (2004), Part C. The resource handbook was designed for parents and community partners so that they may better understand and utilize early intervention in the community where they reside. The parent handbook was designed to be as a written reference of …

Parkinson's Disease And Occupational Therapy: Evidence Based Practice, Gordon Stubbings, Tiffany Vliem

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The therapeutic benefit of occupational therapy with Parkinson's disease has not been studied in great detail. The purpose of this Scholarly Project was to provide extensive and comprehensive evidence-based information about Parkinson's disease as it applies to occupational therapists. This information was utilized to generate clinical guidelines in the form of a user-friendly manual meant for practicing OTs in treating Parkinson's disease.

An extensive literature review was performed using PubMed to determine current evidence-based practice that occupational therapists and other rehabilitation therapists were currently using. Following the review of literature, a needs assessment was completed per survey directed towards practicing …

Early Childhood Fine Motor Assessment, Naomi Kapaun

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The development of hand function is ongoing from infancy through adulthood. Hand function is especially important in the early years as a child prepares for school. As with all skills, the level of hand function can range from "excellent" to "average" to "clumsy" or "immature." Stability, strength, and endurance are key components of adequate hand skill development. These components are often areas of weakness in today's society of technology and passive activities. Creating an assessment designed specifically for the identification of skill acquisition, as it pertains to hand function and fine motor development, in the early childhood years will assist …

Stress And Anxiety In Adhd: Links To Sensory Over-Responsivity, Stacey E. Reynolds

Theses and Dissertations

Sensory Modulation Dysfunction (SMD) is characterized by an inability to consistently and accurately grade responses to sensory information. SMD, and specifically sensory over-responsivity (SOR), has been correlated with stress and anxiety in some developmentally delayed populations and has been associated with structures and functions of the hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis. Recent attention has been given to HPA functioning in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), with a majority of studies identifying blunted or diminished cortisol patterns. In contrast, elevated cortisol has been associated with anxiety and anxious behaviors in both animal and human studies. The purpose of this study …

Long-Arm Splinting For Lateral Epicondylitis: A Case Study, Crystal Wolters

Masters Theses

Lateral epicondylitis is a debilitating condition that has a significantly negative effect on the occupational lives of many people. There appears to be no recognized ideal treatment method for the condition. Long-arm splinting for lateral epicondylitis has not been addressed in the literature. A case study was used to thoroughly describe one participant’s experience with long-arm splinting to treat her lateral epicondylitis. She was interviewed, observed, and measurements were taken of her affected arm’s range of motion and strength. The seven themes which were identified through these methods include a description of how her lateral epicondylitis developed, her description of …

Sensory Integration: It's Not Just For Children, Renee Watling, Stefanie Bodison, Diana A. Henry, Heather Miller-Kuhaneck

Occupational Therapy Faculty Publications

Sensory integration theory and intervention techniques were originally developed by A. Jean Ayres, PhD, OTR, beginning in the late 1960s. Her pioneering work integrated scientific information from neuroscience, psychology, occupational therapy, and human development in an effort to help explain the relationship among experience, brain development, and function. Ayres's theory of sensory integration provides a solid foundation for understanding the impact of sensation on occupational performance across the life span. Although much of the existing work related to sensory integration addresses occupational performance issues in children, some believe the theory and framework to be important across the life span. However, …

The Relationship Among Sensory Preferences, Play Preferences, Motivation, And Mastery In Guiding Children's Play: A Review Of The Literature, Part 2, Elissa Miller, Heather Miller-Kuhaneck

Occupational Therapy Faculty Publications

Currently, the emphasis throughout health care is on providing evidence-based practice. Occupational therapy practitioners are involved in critical examination of the profession's assumptions and beliefs and are conducting research that supports its theoretical underpinnings. In many areas of practice, practitioners have created bodies of literature to support interventions; and in other areas, we rely on literature from fields outside of the profession. Pediatric occupational therapy is no exception. Although exciting research is currently under way, existing research from outside the profession supports many of our methods and beliefs. A review of the literature found evidence from both inside and outside …

Entry Level Therapists’ Perceived Readiness To Prescribe Low-Technology Adaptive Equipment To Geriatric Populations, Russell Wood

Masters Theses

In this research entry-level therapists' were questioned about their readiness to prescribe low-technology adaptive equipment to geriatric populations. The analysis of 33 returned questionnaires have been discussed, with the overall results indicating that experience, familiarity, and education of specific equipment are all significantly related to the confidence levels of entry-level therapists in prescribing those equipment.

Additionally, the results of specific analysis for the groups of equipment, namely dressing, bathing and toileting were entertained. Open ended questions regarding equipment usage, follow up and trends are also discussed. Finally prediction equations are shared resulting from statistical analysis.

Level I Fieldwork Today: A Study Of Contexts And Perceptions., Caryn Johnson, Kristie P. Koenig, Catherine Verrier Piersol, Susan E. Santalucia, Wendy Wachter-Schutz

Department of Occupational Therapy Faculty Papers

The last comprehensive examination of the Level I fieldwork experience was performed 15 years ago (Shalik, 1990) and addressed the different types of settings in which fieldwork occurred; amounts and types of supervision; structure and scheduling of the Level I experiences; and the effects of supervising Level I students on productivity. Although every occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant student encounters a number of Level I fieldwork opportunities, little is available describing the process and contexts of the Level I fieldwork experience today. This study, which examines 1,002 student reports on Level I fieldwork experiences, finds that Level I fieldwork …

Efficacy Of Therapeutic Listening Intervention On Auditory Processing/Attention In Children Ages 3-11, Casey James Pawell

Masters Theses

A study was conducted to determine the effect Therapeutic Listening® intervention has on auditory attention in children when used in conjunction with sensory integration therapy. Single subject experimentation took place with three participants over a ten week period of time. Pre-test and post-test results on standardized tests were compared as well as graphical representation of change during the intervention phase of this study to determine effect. Positive intervention results were concluded when graphical and test changes were compared. Therapeutic Listening® has noted positive change in auditory attention and completion of verbal tasks in children between the ages of 3 and …

Sight-Reading Versus Repertoire Performance On The Piano: A Case Study Using High-Speed Motion Analysis, Brenda Wristen, Sharon Evans, Nikolaos Stergiou

Health and Kinesiology Faculty Publications

This study was intended to examine whether differences exist in the motions employed by pianists when they are sightreading versus performing repertoire and to determine whether these differences can be c[uantified using high-speed motion capture technology. A secondary question of interest was whether or not an improvement in the efficiency of motion could be observed between two sight-reading trials of the same musical excerpt. This case study employed one subject and a six-camera digital infrared camera system to capture the motion of the pianist playing two trials of a repertoire piece and two trials of a sight-reading excerpt. Angular displacements …

Disaggregating The Relative Influence Of Genetic, Environmental And Individual Factors On Ldl And Hdl Cholesterols And Bmi For A Sample Of African American (Aa) Mothers And Daughters, C. Jayne Brahler, Jewel Harden, Michelle Mchone, Matthew Soules, Eric Evans, Ann Alyanak, Fred Diakpieng, Paul M. Vanderburgh

Health and Sport Science Faculty Publications

There are many reports about the associations between blood lipids, body mass index (BMI) and dietary cholesterol intakes both within the individual and between related individuals. The purpose of this descriptive research project was to investigate the relationships between LDL and HDL cholesterols, body mass index and dietary cholesterol intakes for a sample of African American (AA) mothers and their daughters and to attempt to separate the contribution of genetic versus environmental factors. Mother and daughter participants (n =42 and 66, respectively) were 12-14-hours fasted when blood samples were drawn, heights and weights measured, and 24 hour food recalls completed.

Caring For Your Lymphedema: A Guide To Everyday Action, Beryl J. Olson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project is to present a workbook that assists patients with lymphedema and their therapists to develop a home management program that can successfully be integrated into the patient's daily occupations. The workbook utilizes the principles of the Occupational Adaptation theoretical frame of reference to guide the patient through the steps of making an adaptive response to the occupational challenge of lymphedema management. A review of the literature describes the physical aspects, psychosocial aspects, and the lived experience of the person with lymphedema. The literature review also indicates that currently the preferred method of treatment for …

Sensory Processing: A Guide For Parents And Community Professionals, Julie Yutrzenka

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Miller (2006) describes sensory processing as the way the nervous system receives sensory messages, processes the information, and responds to it. Sensory Processing Disorder is the inability to effectively process information received through the senses. This includes sensory information received through the five traditional senses of vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. It also includes information from the vestibular (movement) and the proprioceptive (muscle sense). Sensory Processing Disorder affects 1 in 20 children (Miller, 2006). Difficulties with sensory processing can negatively affect a child's participation in the daily occupations of play, learning, activities of daily living, and social interaction. Occupational …

Occupational Therapy Program 2006, Nova Southeastern University

Health Professions Divisions Course Catalogs and Course Descriptions

No abstract provided.

Adults With Low Vision: Continuing Education For Occupational Therapists And Occupational Therapy Students, Ashley Berglund, Kelli Hughes

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Low vision is a condition that occurs when an individual has "some amount of usable vision, but their visual functioning is impaired and interferes with their ability to carry out desired tasks" (Lampert & Lapolice, 1995, p. 885). Impairments in vision cause disruptions in areas of daily living including work and leisure, routines, habits, roles, and social participation. There is a great need for holistic and client-centered occupational therapy in low vision rehabilitation services to improve an individual's functional performance and overall quality of life.

A comprehensive literature review was conducted on low vision definitions and medical conditions, the variety …

Assistive Technology Guide For The Occupational Therapy Treatment Of Elementary School-Aged Children With Duchenne Muscular Dystropy, Kara Cook, Jessica Mcmahan

Occupational Therapy Capstones

No abstract provided.

There Is More To Vision Than Seeing Clearly, Dawn Cardinal, Genea Nannemann

Occupational Therapy Capstones

"Vision is not simply the ability to read a certain size letter at a distance of 20 feet. Vision is a complex and adaptable information gathering and processing system which collects, groups, analyzes, accumulates, equates, and remembers information" (American Optometric Association, 2005, p.1). The purpose of this project is to develop a parent/caregiver handbook that will educate parent/caregivers with children who have visual deficits and to benefit the Vision Therapy Project, which is located in Casper, Wyoming. This project is a non-profit organization dedicated to provide assistance and education to parents/caregivers with children in need of vision therapy. Information for …

A Hippotherapy Protocol For Occupational Therapists, Callie Holt, Kirsten Sonderland

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Hippotherapy is an occupational, physical, and speech therapy treatment strategy that utilizes equine movement. Hippotherapy is utilized as part of an integrated treatment program to achieve functional outcomes. In hippo therapy, the client engages in activities that are enjoyable and challenging while the therapist modifies the horse's movement and grades sensory input to improve neurological function and sensory processing (American Hippotherapy Association, 2003).

The purpose of this scholarly project was to create a hippotherapy protocol for occupational therapists interested in developing a hippotherapy program. It was the intent that this hippotherapy protocol be utilized with individuals of all ages who …

Eating Disorders: A Guide For The Occupational Therapist, Randi Horner

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Eating disorders are serious illnesses that can impact physical and mental health. Increasingly, occupational therapists encounter this population in general psychiatric hospitals and treatment facilities, as well as specialized eating disorders treatment facilities. Yet, questions concerning the role of occupational therapy in the treatment of eating disorders remain. The purpose of this project is to increase the awareness of the role of occupational therapy in the treatment of eating disorders by providing a guide for effective treatment of these illnesses. A literature review includes information regarding eating disorders, the demographics and diagnostic criteria of eating disorders, multidisciplinary treatment settings and …

A Wellness Program Module For Employees Of A Skilled Nursing Facility, Cindy Janssen

Occupational Therapy Capstones

No abstract provided.

Aquatic Therapy For Clients With Neurological Impairments: An Introductory Manual For Occupational Therapists, Jason C. Kjar

Occupational Therapy Capstones

No abstract provided.

A Model And Resource For Organizational Leadership For Occupational Therapists, April M. Kingsbury

Occupational Therapy Capstones

No abstract provided.

Training Assistance For Caregivers Working With Students With Traumatic Brain Injury, Randi L. Price

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Students who have suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) often require assistance from a variety of professionals and staff to complete their daily routines. Frequently it is a classroom assistant (paraprofessional), under the direction of a teacher, who attends to the student's basic and daily needs. Teachers and their assistants may receive some general training, but assistants, especially, are seldom offered an opportunity to attend trainings specific to managing the needs, difficulties, and behaviors that they are likely to encounter in their students. Unfortunately, according to J. Shuiz, Training Director and Special Education Services Coordinator for Natrona County School District …

A Family Guide To The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Merri M. Reese, Lori M. Thompson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

One of the many challenges facing health care professionals practicing in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is providing appropriate care that is sensitive, individualized, and supportive to infant development and parental roles (Lawhon, 2002). Because the families are often the ultimate advocates and caregivers for infants in the NICU it is important that they understand and take part in their babies' care. Therefore, by providing clear and easy to understand explanations of equipment, technology, and procedures that are a part of the NICU environment, professionals can help alleviate parental stress and promote parental involvement.

An extensive review of literature …

A Sensory Processing Approach For Young Children With An Adversity To Eating, Zondra S. Thompson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Eating and drinking are basic to our health and survival; it is also an integral part of our social life. For parents, feeding their children is a vital part of how they care for and nurture them. It is difficult for both the parents and the child when eating becomes a stressful experience. Children with sensory processing dysfunction often approach mealtimes with apprehension and discomfort. The willingness or inability to eat may be a sensory-processing based problem, which often exhibits as a behavioral problem such as, the child refusing to eat, to try new foods, or to touch different foods. …