Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Educational Modules Promoting Neurodiversity-Affirming Sensory Interventions, Deanna Bourgeois, Mary Smith, Gina Benavente

Spring 2023 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Neurodivergent children often experience differences in sensory processing and self-regulation. Traditional sensory-based interventions are frequently used by occupational therapy practitioners (OTP) and caregivers to address dysregulation. Sensory-based interventions are strengths-based but not always neurodiversity-affirming. There are few educational resources available that promote neurodiversity-affirming sensory interventions.

The purpose of this project was to create self-paced educational modules to teach neurodiversity-affirming sensory interventions promoting children's self-regulation. The student investigator developed virtual educational modules and piloted them with OTP, occupational therapy students, and caregivers during the capstone experience. The participants engaged with the modules and also submitted responses to pre-and post-surveys. Based on …

Regaining Quality Of Life Painting Pet Portraits, Jennifer K. Fortuna

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Tina Primer, an artist based in Illinois, provided the cover art for the Spring 2023 issue of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Wriggly” is an 11” x 14” painting made from acrylic on stretched canvas. After a debilitating stroke, Tina began using art as therapy. When the strength in her dominant hand did not return, painting pet portraits provided the motivation to do things differently. Tina’s playful use of color and attention to detail capture each pet’s unique personality. Discovering a new way to paint improved Tina’s quality of life.

Empowering Children And Families With Food Allergies: An Innovative Role For Occupational Therapy, Salma H. Bachelani, Meredith P. Gronski, Kelly A. Carlson

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Food allergies (FAs) have far-reaching implications regarding occupational participation. Children with food allergies and their families experience impacts on their daily life activities. The current standard of care for FAs fails to adequately address the wide-ranging barriers to participation in home, school, and community environments. This study used a mixed-method design to examine the impacts of FA on the needs of children and families affected by FA. Eighteen parents of children with FAs and six health care providers of children with FAs were interviewed; the parents also completed two questionnaires to identify the level of impact of FA on areas …

Perceptions Of The Delivery Of Group And Individual Writing Telehealth Interventions For Students 7 To 12 Years Of Age Using Two Virtual Platforms: A Pilot Study, Denise K. Donica, Lauren Turbeville, Taylor Whaley, Sarah Woodlief

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Existing evidence supports occupational therapy’s (OT) role in improving handwriting skills; however, evidence is limited regarding the delivery of virtual intervention.

Method: This pilot study reviewed the use of a virtual interprofessional writing program for five children 7 to 12 years of age that addressed both handwriting (OT) and spelling (speech-language pathology) skills. The program included eight weekly sessions using Microsoft Teams (first four sessions) and Cisco WebEx (last four sessions). A parent survey consisting of 14 questions was conducted to gauge overall satisfaction with the program as well as learn about platform preferences. In addition, the …

Occupational Therapists' Perspectives On Nursing Home Culture And Addressing The Psychosocial Needs Of Residents: Mixed Methods Design, Nayeli Mendoza, Mikayla C. Wandersee, Divya Sood

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: The purpose of this study was to explore occupational therapists’ perspectives on the culture change movement to address the psychosocial components of care among nursing home residents and identify supports and barriers to implementing the culture change movement.

Methods: We used a sequential explanatory mixed methods design. Electronic surveys were completed by 102 occupational therapists who work in nursing home facilities. Three focus groups were conducted via conference call with occupational therapists (n = 9). The survey was analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Focus groups were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results: Seventy-four of survey …

Post Covid-19 Condition: Understanding Implications For Ot Practice, Malachy Clancy, Phd, Otr/L, Bcpr

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

Learning Objectives

• Define and describe Post COVID-19 Condition (PCC)
• Apply recommended treatment interventions for individuals with PCC
• Understand models of care for individuals with PCC

Exploring Seating And Mobility Provision, Amaris Hornbuckle

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone was an exploration of the specialty practice area of seating and mobility through partnerships with Numotion and TriStar Skyline Medical Center. A variety of projects were completed including educational materials for a wheelchair clinic, a loaner wheelchair tracking spreadsheet, educational materials for a Belmont Occupational therapy course, a literature search on pediatric power mobility, and protocol spreadsheets for an FDA research study. Throughout this capstone, I learned the skills necessary for a wheelchair evaluation, developed interprofessional communication skills, and gained an understanding of the lived experience of end users.

Occupational Therapy In End-Of-Life Care, Shannon Sudrla

Student Capstone Papers

Patients at the end-of-life (EoL) experience functional decline in response to terminal illness and the active dying process, inhibiting participation and engagement in meaningful daily activities. Occupational therapy practitioners (OTP) are equipped to address patients’ occupational needs and desires despite their declining capacities; however, the absence of occupational therapy (OT) services in EoL care leaves patients’ occupational needs unmet, directly affecting their quality of life. The literature demonstrates the need for enhanced education and training among occupational therapy students (OTS) and practitioners to better prepare them to work with terminally ill patients who face progressive functional decline and imminent death. …

Supporting Black Mothers In Health Management Occupations During Prenatal Care: An Online Resource For Occupational Therapists, Aminee Alexander, Mary Smith, Diamond Rashad

Spring 2023 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Black women are disproportionately affected by high maternal morbidity and mortality rates, impacting their ability to perform their role as mothers. Research has shown that close to half of these maternal morbidity and mortality events are preventable, demonstrating that care that employs prevention strategies and supports self-management of conditions is beneficial to lowering the rate at which these events occur. Although maternal health (MH) is an emerging area of practice for the profession, occupational therapists (OTs) are well equipped to provide preventative care to expectant mothers and assist in providing care that can aid in lowering the maternal morbidity and …

Sleep Disturbances And Children: An Occupation-Based Program For Parents And Caregivers Of Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy, Katelyn Godoy, Pamela Kasyan-Howe, Kristin Domville, Marcia Hamilton

Spring 2023 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Parents of children with spastic cerebral palsy have barriers to improve their child's quality of life and well-being due to a lack of knowledge regarding the benefits of sleep and rest, as well as the potential causes of sleep disturbances and home-based solutions. The problem is that there is a lack of occupation-based programs for parents that address sleep regulation to improve sleep participation for children with spastic cerebral palsy, which results in difficulties with sleep initiation and maintenance of sleep (Hulst et al. 2020, Löwing et al., 2020, Petersen et al. 2020). The purpose of this program development type …

Building A Brighter Future: Developing Function Out Of Dysfunction, Adrian Ewald

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed in partnership with REBOOT Recovery, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing trauma healing through faith-based, peer-led courses. The purpose of this project was to develop content to supplement the existing 12-week courses that emphasized participation in instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) and life roles. The project was titled “Week 13” within the organization, which consisted of content areas of emotional regulation, education on access to clinical care for mental health needs, financial management, social relationships, and decision-making skills. Content within these areas included reflective questions, calls-to-action, and fillable worksheet templates. Additional content was …

Developing Group Protocols In An Inpatient Rehabilitation Setting, Madison Quan

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed through a partnership with Vanderbilt Stallworth Rehabilitation Hospital (VSRH) in Nashville, TN. The focus of this project was the development and implementation of various protocols to be used in group therapy sessions in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. The project sought to provide guidelines for treating a variety of conditions in a group setting and promote individualized patient care. The process for project completion included a thorough review of current literature and available resources at VSRH to guide the creation of multiple evidence-based protocols. This process also included collaboration with the therapy staff to ensure …

Sensory Map Of Local Zoo: A Capstone Project, Felicity Elsaesser

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

This capstone was conducted at the Cleveland Zoo in partnership with Cleveland State University. An accessible map was created to allow individuals with sensory sensitivities to enjoy this large, outdoor space. The final outcome was an increase in the accessibility and inclusivity at the zoo.

Assessment Tool For Pet Ownership In The Older Adult Population (Poat), Eva Petrik

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

Having a pet can be a meaningful occupation that promotes healthy aging. Many older adults may have difficulty taking care of pets. This capstone focused on the development of an assessment tool to evaluate the challenges of pet ownership for older adults and identify supports needed to maintain pet ownership.

Online Stress Management Resources In Higher Education: A Pilot Study, Diana Leonardo

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

The focus of this capstone was to promote mental health through stress management at Cleveland State University. A Blackboard shell was developed using evidence-based stress management strategies. In collaboration with Cleveland State University, we explored the efficacy of the shell and updated it for future use on campus.

Improving Children's Mental Health Through Outdoor Recreation, Hannah Presot

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

This capstone focused on using outdoor recreation to improve mental health in the pediatric population. In partnership with the Center for LifeSkills, a modified curriculum manual and caregiver handouts were developed to enhance the development of positive metal health among the children who participate in the program.

Parkinson’S Disease And Occupation Focused Wellbeing, Ashley Adamczewski

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

This capstone was completed at InMotion™, a community wellness center that serves individuals with Parkinson's disease. The purpose was to advocate for occupational therapy services in the community as preventative care and educate InMotion™ clients on how occupational therapy can be beneficial to enhance quality of life and overall wellbeing.

Implementing A Health And Nutrition Program In Schools To Promote Healthy Lifestyle Choices, Justine Anderson

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

y program aims to address obesity by educating faculty, children, and parents on proper nutrition and exercise to provide kids with the resources to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Students participated in groups incorporating fun ways to exercise, learning about food groups, creating food crafts with healthy foods, then trying those foods at their leisure. The idea is to expose them to new and/or healthier foods to expand their options for a healthier diet. Resources were also sent home for parents to give them fun activities to do at home that will continue developing their child’s knowledge and expand their palate.

Trauma Recovery On College Campuses, Madison Thomas

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

With the support of REBOOT Recovery, this capstone was completed to bridge the gap between college students who have experienced traumatic events and the lack of tier two services available on Cleveland State's Campus. The goal of this capstone was to show the efficacy of REBOOT Recovery's programming as well as show improvements in overall quality of life.

Sexuality And Intimacy Support For Individuals With Idd: A Study Of Ohio County Services, Emmy Baldwin

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

Individuals with development and intellectual disabilities face barriers to participating in activities related to relationships and sexual well-being. This capstone focused on surveying Ohio county organizations to determine what services are available to support individuals in navigating sexuality and intimacy, culminating in a research paper exploring gaps and opportunities.

How Can Occupational Therapy Enhance Existing Substance Use Disorder Treatment In Summit County, Ohio?, Mary Barrett

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

This capstone project focused on the role of occupational therapy in substance use disorder treatment. While working at Cleveland State University a needs assessment of the services available in Summit County was conducted. The final project was the development of a pilot OT intervention program for agencies to utilize in their treatment services.

Inclusive Postsecondary Education For Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities, Allyson Fedor

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

This capstone facilitated the development of the RISE Program at Cleveland State University, a certificate program for young adults with intellectual disabilities- including academic coursework, opportunities for employment, independent living, social participation, and self-determination. Activities focused on the peer mentorship program and supports for student wellness, residence life, and campus engagement.

Doing, Being, Becoming, & Belonging: Addressing Leisure To Improve Quality Of Life (Qol) For People With Spinal Cord Injury (Sci), Melanie Grady

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

Client-centered adaptive recreation and leisure activities were explored in rehabilitation and community settings, in collaboration with the Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Department at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center. A guidebook was created outlining adaptive leisure equipment and local opportunities in promote participation and fulfillment among individuals with SCI.

Using The S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Approach To Promote Employment Skill Acquisition In Autistic Transition-Aged Youth, Kristen Mey

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Capstone Posters

This capstone is dedicated to improving the occupational participation of autistic transition-aged youth using a novel model for treating autism called The S.U.C.C.E.S.S. ApproachSM. Striving to decrease the employment and wage gap that exists for autistics, this capstone focused on the design and implementation of the Employment Readiness program.

Using Ot-Based Yoga Programs To Improve Sleep Health Across Populations, Hillary Williams

MOT Student Capstones

Sleep dysfunction affects all ages and inhibits successful engagement in everyday activities. Pain and psychological issues are common factors that contribute to sleep health. There is demand for holistic approaches to promote sleep health due to undesirable effects of medications. Yoga has been shown to improve health and wellness of those who practice and can be a tool to improve symptoms leading to poor sleep health. Sleep is an occupational domain that is underrecognized compared to the full scope of occupational therapy (OT). OTs can implement yoga programs to promote sleep health across the lifespan, because they are skilled in …

Occupational Therapy's Role In Increasing Asl (American Sign Language) Intelligibility In Deaf And Hard Of Hearing Students, Bailey S. Matney

MOT Student Capstones

Over the years, the occupational therapy profession has worked diligently to provide holistic treatment to all populations throughout the lifespan; however, gaps in practice do exist. One gap that was identified, by this paper's author, involves the Deaf and hard of hearing (D/hh) student population. In American Sign Language (ASL), there are twenty-two different handshapes that make up the twenty-six letters of the alphabet, all of which must be formed through the use of fine motor movements of the wrist, forearm, and digits. In typically developing children, these fine motor movements that ASL production requires are not challenging, but they …

Transition Ready: Improving Transition Planning For Students With Asd In Rural Georgia Using An Occupational Therapy Based Program, Christen Flowers, Keisa Boykin, Thais Petrocelli

Spring 2023 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

PURPOSE To develop an occupational therapy based program to educate school staff and personnel about the transition planning process

An Occupational Therapist Role In Mental Health: Focus In Schizophrenia And Eating Disorders, Stephany Tourtillott, Lakeisa Boykin, Inti Marizita

Spring 2023 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Occupational therapy is a field that aims to help a population gain as much independence as possible within all areas of occupation. In many cases and populations, this tends to fall within the physical limitations domain and does not often consider populations where mental health is the main domain affected. In this capstone project, the writer dove into how an occupational therapist can help those with schizophrenia and eating disorders, specifically within the adolescent population. This capstone project began with a literature review in which five significant themes arose: background on mental health, the current treatment of schizophrenia and eating …

Advocacy For Accessible Air Travel, Alexandra Bruce, Lydia Kite, Zeida Gutierrez

Spring 2023 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Problem: Passengers with disabilities decreased participation in air travel due to anxiety fear of injury, and damage to their assistive technology devices limits their ability to participate in occupations where air travel is used.

Purpose To highlight a need for occupational therapy (OT) collaboration with airlines and related stakeholders; and to advocate for more accessible air travel within the airline industry that can lead to a more safe experience for air travelers with disabilities.

Ez-Go Stairs, Jaclyn Jankowski, Ots, Kristina Camille Manapat, Ots, Bokyung Seo, Ots, Cariah London, Ids

Program of Industrial Design Posters

Poster is of the "EZ-GO Stairs" that is a device that will provide support when walking up and down the stairs with a basket attached to carry the items hands-free, and is adapted to client's staircase, height and ensured storability.