Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Factors That Contribute To Occupational Burnout Among Occupational Therapists And Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants: A Qualitative Design, M'Kayla Davis, Kim Broussard, Mary Jan Greer

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project investigates the prevalence, contributing factors, and impact of occupational burnout and compassion fatigue among occupational therapists (OTs) and certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs) in inpatient rehabilitation facilities. Using a qualitative research design, structured interviews and thematic analysis, the study identifies heavy workloads, staffing limitations, emotional demands, and sleep deprivation as primary contributors to burnout. The research employs occupational adaptation theory to explore adaptive strategies practitioners utilize, such as boundary setting and seeking professional or interrelationship support, to mitigate these effects. Findings highlight the pervasive nature of burnout among participants on professional performance and personal well-being, and the …

Addressing Psychosocial Barriers To Participation In People Experiencing Homelessness: An Occupational Therapy Workshop, Preston Bender, Steven M. Gerardi, Lacey Spark

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Despite the occupational therapy (OT) profession's emphasis on holistic, person-centered care, many OT practitioners and students report feeling a lack of self-efficacy and preparedness to navigate the complex psychological, social, and systemic barriers that hinder occupational participation in people experiencing homelessness (PEH). This capstone project aimed to address the perceived unpreparedness among clinicians through the creation of an 8-hour interactive educational workshop aligned with Experiential Learning Theory. The content is grounded in the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) and informed by the Bridging the Transition from Homelessness: A Social Justice Framework (BTTF), trauma-informed care (TIC), harm reduction, and diversity, equity, …

Harmony In Motion: An Adaptive Dance Program For Enhancing Motor Skills And Social Engagement In Children With Down Syndrome, Diamond D. Sampson, Mary Jan Greer, Jennifer Johnson

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Harmony in Motion is an occupational therapy–inspired adaptive dance program designed to create inclusive, sensory-friendly ballet experiences for children with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome. Through tailored movement activities, environmental modifications, and the use of adaptive props, the program promotes participation, social connection, and self-expression.

08.11.2025 Ored Connect, Liz Williamson

ORED Newsletter

F and A rates

ORED Research Reception

NSF Audit Final Resolution and Compliance Updates

Caregiver Training Program For Optimal Recovery Of Neuro Accidents: An Occupational Therapy Approach, Bennie L. Huitt Jr., Jennifer Featheringham, Cassandra Nelson

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Caregivers of individuals recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or experiencing onset of dementia often are provided limited education and support after discharge, negatively impacting confidence and recovery outcomes. The Caremaster program was designed to bridge the educational gap between occupational therapists in the clinical setting and caregivers in the home settings through accessible online modules, support groups, and in-person demonstrations. Module topics included understanding neuro accidents and role of the caregiver, returning home (transition and adaptation), ADLs and Mobility, returning to roles, and social reintegration. This program aims to guide future development of scalable, community-based caregiver education that …

Intouch Week Of August 11, 2025, New York Medical College

InTouch

• New Chief Development Officer Joins NYMC
• GSBMS Welcomes a New Cohort of Students
• 20 Years of Revolutionizing Emergency Preparedness
• Study Calls for Nuanced Approach to Stroke Care in Sexual and Gender Diverse Patients
• NYMC and TU Host “Ninety Minutes: The Medical Magazine of the Web”
• Back-to-School Savings
• TCDM Announces its First Alumni Association Executive Board

Occupational Therapy For Individuals With Low Vision Affecting Their Mental Health, De'aundria M. Gipson, Jaimee Fielder, Becky King

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Low vision is a prevalent public health issue among older adults, often leading to functional limitations, reduced participation in activities of daily living (ADLs), and increased risk of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation. This capstone project explored the relationship between low vision and mental health by developing and evaluating a program to address both functional and psychosocial needs. Guided by the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) model, the program was implemented at Envision Dallas and included a needs assessment, tailored strategies, and group activities targeting emotional well-being, independence, and social participation. Data from surveys, interviews, and observation indicated …

A Specialized Training Toolkit To Increase Inclusion Of Children With Disabilities In After School Programs, Merilyn N. Powdrill, Abby Vander Laan, Angela Blackwell

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

The Inclusive Pathways Toolkit was developed and implemented in after-school programs to enhance staff competencies in supporting children with disabilities. This initiative aimed to create a more inclusive environment by providing staff with practical strategies and resources, thereby improving the overall experience and participation of children with disabilities in after-school activities.

Impact Of Occupational Therapy Based Enrichment Program On Children In Transitional Housing, Taylor Lynn Miller, Dana Madalon, Cynthia Haynes

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Development, implement and evaluation of occupational therapy based enrichment program for children in transitional housing who have previously experienced homelessness.

Academic Year In Review 2024-2025, Dugoni School Of Dentistry

Dugoni Academic Year in Review

The Dugoni School family makes a difference in the lives of thousands of people each year, and we are fulfilling our purpose of helping people lead healthy lives. Our Year in Review report highlights just some of the great happenings over the last year across our academic programs, clinical services, research, community outreach and other areas.

Equine Assisted Services To Increase Participation In Activities Of Daily Living And Social Engagement For Veterans With Ptsd, Mackenzie A. Alexander, Rebecca King, Gwen R. Morris

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Currently there are limited occupational therapy programs in equine assisted services that promote engagement in meaningful occupations for veterans who experience PTSD. This capstone project aims to increase occupational participation of veterans with PTSD by providing modules on education and interventions to therapy staff who work in equine assisted services. The modules focus on increasing engagement in activities of daily living and social participation to promote overall quality of life.

Ot And Lactation Consulting: More Than Just A Baby's Breast-Friend, Cara N. Reynolds

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

Over the course of 14 weeks, I developed clinical skills related to infant feeding, including—but not limited to—anatomy, conditions that interfere with feeding, maternal health concerns, and the importance of an interdisciplinary approach. I gained insight into each discipline's unique role by job shadowing at various lactation clinics. I observed PTs, SLPs, RNs, craniosacral therapists, and interviewed a nutritionist. Many of the centers I visited expressed a desire to one day incorporate an OT into their practice, which was encouraging.

With this knowledge, I created an informational binder to leave at the Kentucky Breastfeeding Center (KBC) for future OT students. …

Providing Leisure Opportunities To Support Mental Health & Quality Of Life For Oncology Patients In Acute Care:, Allison Adkins

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

The purpose of this project was to make leisure activities accessible to patients in acute care and to explore the benefits it may have on patients' mental health and quality of life. One study found there to be a high prevalence of mental health problems among older adults with 36% having no prior mental health problems (Goldberg et al., 2012). Additionally, psychiatric disorders have been shown to affect at least 30–35% of cancer patients during all phases of the disease trajectory (Caruso & Breitbart, 2020). Research also suggests that active engagement in leisure activities helps older adults maintain functioning in …

Enhancing Experiences Of Children With Special Needs And Volunteers In Church Classrooms, Anna Corado

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

The purpose of this ALE project was to support volunteers working with children with special needs and enhance the experience of children with special needs in church classrooms at Fern Creek Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Volunteers were provided with education and training regarding sensory equipment and strategies to utilize within the classrooms. Changes to the environment were made including creation of a sensory room and adaptations to the classrooms to better support children’s sensory needs. The confidence of volunteers working with children with special needs was measured through a post-survey following the implementation of education and training. This capstone …

Infusing Ot Principles Into A Program For Women Survivors Of Domestic Violence, Lark M. Wilkerson, Mary Jan Greer, Kim Broussard, Wendy Tremaine

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project proposes the development and implementation of a trauma-informed occupational therapy (OT) program designed to support women survivors of domestic violence. Grounded in trauma-informed care principles, the program aims to address the psychosocial, emotional, and functional disruptions commonly experienced by survivors, including trauma-related stress, anxiety, and difficulty engaging in meaningful daily activities. A comprehensive needs assessment informed the development of structured interventions focused on improving emotional regulation, promoting self-care, fostering social participation, and enhancing overall occupational performance. Using both qualitative and quantitative methods, the project evaluates changes in participants’ functional abilities, psychosocial well-being, and perceived quality of life. …

The Benefits Of Music In Occupational Therapy For Individuals With Dementia, Keanu Butler, Rebecca King, Keegan Mckay

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in older adults, leading to progressive declines in memory, behavior, and daily functioning. Music interventions, whether live or recorded, have been shown to improve mood, reduce agitation, and enhance quality of life for individuals with dementia by fostering emotional connection and relaxation. The Model of Human Occupation supports these interventions by addressing volition, routines, and performance skills, helping therapists create meaningful, structured strategies to improve daily living and engagement.

Accessible Outdoor Recreation For Individuals With Physical Disabilities: An Educational Series, Ashlyn Leonard, Zeida Gutierrez

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone paper explores the effects of physical disabilities on outdoor recreation. An educational workshop was designed and delivered to occupational therapy students at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. The purpose of the workshop was to increase their awareness of accessible outdoor recreation that way they can better mitigate barriers experienced by their future clients when trying to participate in desired outdoor activities. A pre- and post-survey was administered and analyzed to determine the applicability and effectiveness of the workshop in delivering the information.

Habit Formation Among Individuals Alcohol Use Disorder, Blaire Guidry, Cynthia Haynes

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project aimed to determine the efficacy of a newly developed and delivered online program that focuses on educating individuals experiencing Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) on how to create habits with decreased executive functioning skills. With the rise in substance use and addiction related disorders throughout the United States, the urge to implement various intervention approaches that support long term recovery is crucial (Radesi, 2025). By focusing on habit formation, the goal of this capstone is to educate individuals on how to create habits that promote increased participation in meaningful occupations.

Facilitating Engagement And Well-Being In Older Adults Through Personalized Background Music, Anna Heady

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This capstone project explores personalized background music as a client-centered intervention to enhance engagement, emotional well-being, and quality of life for older adults in a senior living community. Conducted at Treyton Oak Towers in Louisville, KY, the project integrated meaningful music into daily leisure and social activities. Key goals included building rapport with residents and staff, assessing residents’ functional needs, planning and adapting activities, and incorporating music preferences to support participation and enjoyment. Older adults in long-term care often experience cognitive decline, low motivation, and limited engagement in meaningful occupations. Literature supports music’s ability to stimulate memory, enhance mood, and …

Advancing Mental Health Awareness Among Persons Of Color: An Occupational Therapy Perspective, Irene Rattitham, Cassandra Nelson

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project aimed to advance mental health awareness among persons of color (POC) residing in a skilled nursing facility by developing and implementing a culturally responsive psychoeducational program. Informed by the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) model, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based practices, the program addressed barriers such as stigma, limited awareness, and cultural perceptions of mental health. A needs assessment guided the creation of an 8-module curriculum covering topics like emotional regulation, family involvement, and accessing support. Educational materials were translated into Spanish, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese to enhance accessibility. The program was delivered through group and individual sessions, in-service presentations, and …

Addressing Anxiety In The Pediatric Population: An Ot Perspective, Joshua D. Johnson, Mary Jan Greer, Wendy Tremaine, Justine Faghihifar

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone develops and evaluates a trauma-informed training for RBTs and caregivers in outpatient ABA clinics serving children with ASD and anxiety. Grounded in MOHO, the seven-module program teaches trigger→support mapping, sensory strategies, visual tools, and brief co-regulation routines. Findings show improved knowledge and confidence, with recommendations to embed a fidelity rubric, booster sessions, and ready-to-use templates.

Occupational Therapy In Adolescent And Young Adult Oncology: An Educational Guidebook, Bailee N. Fleming, Lesley Khan-Farooqi

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients, typically aged 15 to 39, face numerous physical, emotional, and psychological challenges during and after treatment, which can significantly affect their quality of life and ability to engage in daily activities. While occupational therapy has proven effective in addressing these challenges, its integration into AYA cancer care remains underutilized. This project aimed to bridge the gap by developing a comprehensive guidebook for AYA oncology patients and their oncology care teams, providing an in-depth understanding of the impact of cancer and its treatments on occupational performance, and promoting the role of occupational therapy in …

Helping Children Cope With Sensory Overstimulation At Theme Parks: An Educational Video Series For Parents, Ashley M. Garcia, Steven M. Gerardi Phd, Otd, Mss, Otr

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Parents of children with sensory processing challenges often feel overwhelmed and unprepared when visiting high-stimulation environments such as theme parks. Loud sounds, bright lights, crowded walkways, and unpredictable routines can contribute to sensory overload, creating distress for both children and caregivers. Although theme parks aim to provide joyful family experiences, they may not fully account for the needs of neurodivergent children, including those with autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or sensory processing disorder. Parents of children with debilitating sensory issues are unsure and uncertain on how to prepare to assist their child to cope with the overwhelming sensory stimuli at …

Fostering Inclusive Care: Advancing Cultural Humility In Healthcare Professional Education: A Micro-Credential, Delaney A. Williams, Lacey Spark, Angela Blackwell

Summer 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Health outcomes are the results of healthcare and rehabilitative therapy interventions and describe what a client can accomplish through the rehabilitative therapy process. To achieve positive outcomes, practitioners identify possible barriers impacting clients’ participation in tasks and administer interventions to address these barriers in order to facilitate participation. As a result, cultural humility has been labeled as “paramount in therapeutic practice” (American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA], 2020) due to it being a foundational principle underpinning effective client care and professionalism. Cultural humility is an ongoing process of acknowledging one’s biases and limitations through self-reflection and self-critique, while actively seeking to …

08.04.2025 Ored Connect, Liz Williamson

ORED Newsletter

NIH limits AI use and annual proposals accepted per PI

August 2025, Swosu Bulldog Wellness Committee

SWOSU BULLDOG WELLNESS

• Yoga classes coming 9/16 - 10/14
• National Wellness Month
• 5 Habits of Self-Care
• Vaccines and Immunization
• Zucchini Brownies!
• Family Fun Month - Ideas!
• Standing Desks Available
• Word Search

The Impact Of Implementing A Nurse Residency Program, Lexus Freeman

Nurse Residency

Does a nurse residency program enhance retention among new graduate nurses compared to immediately entering practice?

Importance Of Mobility During Hospital Stays, Jennifer Davis

Nurse Residency

PICOT Question: In hospitalized patients, how does lack of mobility compared to regular ambulation affect mental health during their hospital stays?

What Sucks The Best? The Ducanto!, Gabe Gunning

Nurse Residency

Background: Airway management is a defining skill that demands mastery by emergency physicians. Airway emergencies pose considerable morbidity and mortality risks. Familiarity with, and mastery of, a variety of airway management approaches and equipment can prove invaluable for management of anatomically and physiologically difficult airways.

Delirium In Intubated Adult Icu Patients, Emily Martin, Colby Obrecht, Jacob Scott

Nurse Residency

PICOT Question: In intubated adult ICU patients, does sedation with Dexmedetomidine compared to Propofol reduce the incidence of hospital acquired delirium during the ICU stay?