Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

A Manual For Caregivers Of Infants With Brachial Plexus Injuries, Maranda Myrold, Taryn Wagner

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project was to develop a holistic manual for occupational therapists to provide to caregivers of infants with neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP). A literature review was conducted on the impact of NBPP on both the infant’s and their caregiver’s quality of life. The literature review revealed that NBPP can lead to functional deficits for infants, increasing the amount of care, attention, and resources they require. Due to these challenges, a caregiver may experience high levels of stress, which could result in depression, anger, and frustration (Matlow, Stevens, Harrison, & Laxer, 2006). Also, current research is …

Facilitating The Role Of An Occupational Therapist As A Primary Care Provider For Clients With Rheumatoid Arthritis, Alexis Nims, Kayli Schumacher

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Chronic disease management is an ever-growing need within the current population. One of those chronic diseases, arthritis, is the present leader in cause for disability among adults (Helmick et al., 2008). This incidence is expected to increase by 40% over the next 25 years. Among this population are those diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is anticipated to affect over 1.2 million Americans each year alone (Helmick et al., 2008). Incurable, RA is a debilitating condition that results in the loss of function within various occupations of daily life. The needs of this population are great, yet are often left …

The Experience Of Occupational Therapists' Approaches And Interventions For School-Aged Children And Adolescents With Anxiety, Meg O'Brien, Emily Terhaar

Occupational Therapy Capstones

In the realm of occupational therapy there is not a clear or cohesive evidencebased approach that OT's use to guide intervention planning with school-aged children or adolescent who have anxiety or anxiety secondary to another medical condition. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of the experience of 6 pediatric occupational therapists in an outpatient setting in developing and implementing interventions for this population. Researchers utilized a phenomenological qualitative research method completing six interviews to understand the experience of the participants. Findings suggest that occupational therapists who participated in this study feel that they have skills …

Cross-Generational Occupation-Based Interventions For Upper Extremity Injuries, William B. Creel, Blake L. Sweney

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Decreased adherence to therapy protocols after upper extremity injury has been correlated with increased risk of re-injury and decreased general therapy outcomes. Occupation-based therapy has been shown to increase adherence to therapy protocol. To date, there have been several occupation-based protocols in upper-extremity musculoskeletal rehabilitation, but never one that addresses occupation across the lifespan and attempts to develop a tool to assist therapist in developing occupation based protocols specific to the developmental group.

The main theoretical background for the development of the clinical tool was the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) and Erickson's Developmental Stages Model. An extensive literature review …

Transitioning To Retirement: Useful Topics For A Wellness Program With Retired Older Adults, Katie Spitzmueller, Amy Feller

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Retirement has evolved from traditional stereotypes to an individualized plan. Transitioning into retirement can be a stressful time and it is generally accepted that pre-retirement attitudes impact post-retirement success (Marshall, Clarke & Ballantyne, 2001). A wellness program can make the transition into retirement less difficult by incorporating different dimensions of wellness: social, intellectual, occupational, physical, emotional, and spiritual (Strout & Howard, 2012). Currently there is very little research indicating the effectiveness of a wellness program that addresses these dimensions. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to gain insight into useful topics for a wellness program based on perspectives of …

A School-Based Reintegration Program For Children With Limb Loss: The Role Of Occupational Therapy, Allison Sussman, Samantha Hoy

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: The purpose of this scholarly project was to assist in treatment planning for school-based occupational therapists providing services to children who have suffered a traumatic limb loss. The goal of this scholarly project was to promote successful reintegration into the school setting as children with traumatic limb loss have been found to encounter difficulties returning to full participation in valued occupations including being a student and a friend (Michelsen, Van Wijk, & Ketelaar, 2010). There has been limited research conducted focusing on the role of occupational therapists when working with children in the school setting who have experienced traumatic …

A Protocol For Animal Assisted Therapy In A Midwestern Hospital, Alexie J. Traiser, Katie J. Huot

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) has been shown to improve physiological, psychological, social, and physical aspects of clients (Miller & Ingram, 2000; Diefenbeck, Bouffard, Matukaitis, Hastings & Coble, 2010). AAT increases an individual’s strength, cognition, range of motion, and balance (Miller & Ingram, 2000). The use of animals within therapy also decreases anxiety, heart rate, blood pressure, and pain while also improving attention and social participation (Diefenbeck et al., 2010). The role of animals within AAT provides the therapist with a unique tool to utilize in various aspects of therapy. Depending on the treatment plan, the therapist can utilize the animal …

Gaming: Occupation-Based Nbcot Exam Preparation, Ilse Coleman, Jamie Kauffman

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project was to create a novel, unique, and effective preparation tool for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification examination.

A literature review of 40 evidence-based journal articles addressed adult learning principles; guidelines for facilitating learning; types of, advantages, and disadvantages of using gaming in higher education; and preparation methods for high-stakes examinations. Information reviewed also included current preparation tools; exam blueprint; and domain, task, and knowledge statements ofthe NBCOT certification examination.

An Open Book: NBCOT Exam Prep Game is a board game that can be used as a supplementary preparation tool …

The Impact Of Multicultural Education Course On Therapist Cultural Competence, Gemma Cosky Saxon

Occupational Therapy Capstones

"The need for culturally skilled occupational therapists (OTs) has been documented for years" (Wittman & Velde, 2002). In 2009, Cherry, Kitchens, Nicholson, Soden, Tomkiewicz, Kedia & Shah found that 32.8% of their respondents did not know about the demand for culturally competent occupational therapy (OT) services and cultural factors that could influence a client's occupational performance. Of this group 55-85% rated themselves as having limited awareness.

The purpose of this proposed study was to assess the effectiveness of the University of North Dakota (UND) OT multicultural course in preparing graduates toward cultural competence. The assessment was then compared to the …

Experiential Learning And Its Impact On Critical Thinking, Vanessa Dvergsten, Alissa Haugen

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Background: In occupational therapy education, it is unclear what educational methods best facilitate the development of critical thinking. Therefore, this pilot study explored whether Level I fieldwork coupled with reflective learning opportunities impacts the development of critical thinking skills.

Methods: The researchers employed a pre and post-test design which measured both self-perception of critical thinking and actual performance of critical thinking. Specifically, the Health Science Reasoning Test (HSRT) and a reflective writing assignment graded with a rubric were utilized to measure actual performance. The Self-Assessment of Critical Reflection and Reasoning (SACRR) was used to measure self-perceived performance of critical thinking. …

Process To Incorporate A Therapy Service Dog In An Occupational Therapy Educational Program, Hanna Eickenbrock, Marlee Wheelhouse

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of the scholarly project is to incorporate a therapy/service dog within the occupational therapy department at the University of North Dakota (UND). The therapy/service dog will be utilized as a support system for student’s and faculty’s health and well-being and as an educational tool for enhancing student learning. The authors completed the process of implementation by progressing through the hierarchical process of UND gatekeepers. Through the development of a legality and safety protocol, loan agreement, and purpose proposal, the authors obtained official approval to implement a therapy/service dog in the UND Occupational Therapy program.

Facilitating Play Amongst Siblings When One Is Diagnosed With Asd: Guide, Anne Lee, Kasie Parker

Occupational Therapy Capstones

No abstract provided.

Social Participation: An Occupational Therapy Guide To Intervention For Youth With Depressive Disorders, Alexandra L. Marvel

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: The purpose of this scholarly project is to present an intervention guide for occupational therapists working with children and adolescents diagnosed with or experiencing depressive disorders. This guide will focus on the occupation of social participation.

Methods: An extensive literature review of evidence-based journal articles addressed the definition of depressive disorders in both adults and children and adolescents, the impact symptoms have on occupations and daily functioning, current treatment approaches, and the role of occupational therapy.

Results: The product of this scholarly project is an occupational therapy intervention guide to promote social participation for children and adolescents diagnosed with …

Fostering Reading, Writing, And Communication Skills Through Intergenerational Relationships: An After-School Program, Cynthia Nelson, Laurel Prusak

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Intergenerational programs are known to bring older adults together with children in order to promote social inclusion, and increased self-confidence and motivation for both age groups (Hatton-Yeo, 2010). Programs of this nature have proven to influence greater academic outcomes and school performance, decreased criminal behavior and greater personal adaptability in younger populations (Hatton-Yeo, 2010). Research with community dwelling seniors who participated in intergenerational programs indicated that older adults showed a decrease in depressive symptomology after participating in weekly programming (Kamei et. al., 2011). While the outcomes of these studies clearly identify the benefits of intergenerational programming on both youth and …

Occupational Therapists In Primary Care: Perceptions Of Incorporating New Interventions Into Practice, Roberta Reid, Allen Simpson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Due to an increased focus on prevention in current United States health care policy, an increasing number of occupational therapists have been integrating into primary care teams. There is little to no research available demonstrating the perceptions of practicing occupational therapists regarding primary care; specifically what barriers and opportunities are hindering and helping, and if current practitioners are considering transitioning to primary care. The purpose of this independent study was to conduct a focus group with practicing therapists to explore OT perceptions regarding the potential role they might play in primary care and how/if they might begin this process in …

Occupation-Based Leisure Interventions For Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury, Jaclyn Swangstue, Whitney Josephson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project was to provide occupational therapists with a practical guide for implementing occupation-based leisure interventions for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). In recent years, the occupational therapy (OT) profession has seen a shift from a biomechanically driven paradigm back to the occupation-centered practice from which OT is rooted. Though the definition and mission of OT involves the use of occupation-centered interventions, this vision is not always evident within current treatment plans for people with a SCI diagnosis. Research has indicated that leisure participation is essential for this population due to the physical benefits and …

Implications Of Huntington's Disease On Daily Living: An Educational Tool And Guide For Occupational Therapists Treating Individuals With Huntington's Disease, Jacquelin Jones, Megan Thompson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disease that can cause stress on the individual as well as their family members and caregivers. Due to the rareness of Huntington’s disease (HD), it is common that professionals are often at a loss when treating patients who have it. Dawson et al. (2004) discussed the need for individualized and client-centered care for those individuals diagnosed with HD, as well as providing practical supports for those diagnosed and their families. Furthermore, a major challenge to assessment and intervention is the complexity of the symptoms present with HD. Etchgary (2011) found in her study that …

An After-School Wellness Program For Children In Low Socioeconomic Neighborhoods, Sarah Faehnrich, Kalee Mccann

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project was to develop an interdisciplinary after-school program for fifth graders living in low socioeconomic neighborhoods. This program entitled Let’s Move, Cook, and Learn With Friends! is intended to reduce obesity through promoting healthy habits in children by increasing physical activity, consumption of healthy food, and positive interactions with peers. Childhood obesity is a worldwide epidemic that can result in lifelong health problems if not treated proactively (Vizcaino et al., 2008). Therefore, the goal of this scholarly project is to raise their knowledge about obesity and decrease the risk factors for childhood obesity.

A literature …

Addressing Vehicle Safety For Children With Additional Emotional And Behavioral Needs, Madeline Aandal, Bailey Stotts

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: More than 148,000 children were injured in motor vehicle crashes in 2011 (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2014). Currently, while it is understood that transporting children with special needs likely to affect behaviors (SNLAB) provide safety challenges (Yonkman, Lawler, Talty, O’Neil, & Bull, 2013), there is little information regarding how to evaluate and intervene for this significant aspect of daily life. The purpose of this project was to develop an occupational therapy protocol for evaluation and intervention for car safety to be used by occupational therapists working with children who have emotional and behavioral needs.

Methodology: An extensive …

The Incidence And Influence Of Musculoskeletal And Nerve Injuries Among Occupational Therapists: An Exploratory Study, Alyssa A. Jenkins, Renae H. Witta

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: The purpose of this research study was to explore the incidence and influence of musculoskeletal and nerve injuries among occupational therapists. Specifically, we examined the influence of musculoskeletal and nerve injuries on work satisfaction, work performance and overall quality of life in occupational therapists practicing in physical rehabilitation settings.

Methodology: An exploratory survey research design was implemented following study approval from the University of North Dakota (UND) Institutional Review Board. Occupational therapists who were affiliated with the UND Occupational Therapy Program contract sites were invited, via email, to participate in this exploratory study. In addition, the survey was posted …

A Pilot Study: Examining The Effectiveness Of Managing Fatigue Post-Stroke Via Telehealth, Nicole Gronhovd, Hannah Muehlberg

Occupational Therapy Capstones

There is currently a lack of research on the effectiveness of energy conservation techniques to treat the fatigue experienced by individuals following a stroke. Because of this, the purpose of this research study was to explore the effects of Managing Fatigue: A Six Week Course for Energy Conservation, developed by occupational therapists, Packer, Brink, and Sauriol (1995), on the level of fatigue individuals experience following a stroke. As telehealth is an emerging area in occupational therapy service delivery, the present study also aimed to determine the effectiveness of occupational therapy services delivered via teleconference.

A pilot study using a pretest-posttest …

A Community Grant Application To Support People With Dementia And Their Caregivers, Jessica Montomery

Occupational Therapy Capstones

In upcoming years, the population of older adults with dementia is expected to rise exponentially, with the expectation that the majority of these individuals will choose to age in place with increased caregiver support (AARP, 2011; National Alliance for Caregiving, 2009; Vincent & Velkoff, 2010). Without adequate education to prepare for the caregiving role, education, instruction, and support, informal caregivers are at an increased risk for caregiving burden, stress, and mortality rates (Morimoto, Schreiner, & Asano, 2003; Schulz & Beach, 1999; Thinnes & Padilla, 2011). The goal for this scholarly project was to create a home and community-based program for …

Addressing Social, Emotional, And Organizational Goals For A Child With An Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asd) Using The Cognitive Orientation To Daily Occupational Performance (Co-Op) Approach:, Gina Czmowski, Shea Willert

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Background: Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) have social, emotional, and organizational deficits. These are frequently addressed through behavioral-based skills training which often does not result in generalization of skills.

Methods: This single case study sought to understand if the Cognitive Orientation for daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP) approach, an approach developed to assist children in problem solving their own motor planning difficulties, is an effective approach for addressing social, emotional, and organizational goals with a child with an ASD.

Results: Pre and post-intervention assessment ratings on the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure and the Performance Quality Rating Scale completed by the …

Fostering Self-Identity In Adolescents Who Experience Spinal Cord Injuries, Lauren Schneibel, Terese Boeder

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project is to identify a need and to guide occupational therapists during the treatment of adolescents who have acquired a spinal cord injury. During the adolescence stage, an individual begins to develop a sense of self and sense of direction, as well as formulate values which all contribute to personal identity formation (Erickson, 1968). The manual will guide the occupational therapist to address identity formation through use of the chosen assessments and interventions. It is believed that focusing on aspects of identity formation as experienced in the midst of a traumatic spinal cord injury will …

A Study Examining The Effectiveness Of A Sensory-Based Feeding Group For Children With Problematic Eating Behaviors, Laura Notch, Brionna Simenson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

KEY WORDS: children, problematic eating behaviors, sensory, intervention

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this pilot study was to analyze the process and outcomes of a routine sensory-based feeding group on a child’s problematic eating behaviors.

METHODS: An experimental pretest-posttest research design was used to gather and analyze quantitative and qualitative data on 4 children who demonstrated problematic eating behaviors. The children participated in a routine 8-week sensory-based feeding group, which utilized sensory activities to promote change. The Children’s Eating Behavior Inventory (CEBI) and the Feeding Intake Form (FIF) were completed through parental report prior to and upon completion of the intervention. …

Retained Primitive Reflexes And Adhd: Examining Atypical Symptomology In The School-Aged Population, Quincey Adams, Jamie Craft

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: Typical development begins in-utero and progresses throughout the lifespan. Jean Piaget authored a theory that encompasses core aspects of the lifespan stages related to typical development of sensory and motor systems. Piaget outlined the developmental stages as: sensorimotor stage, preoperational stage, concrete operational stage, and formal operational stage. Within these stages, the typically developing child learns to adapt and respond effectively to his or her environment (Cole & Tufano, 2008). Dr. Jean Ayres described a similar developmental process, termed Sensory Integration. This process is defined as the coordination of the sensory systems in order for an individual to effectively …

Weight Management For The Elderly Population Who Have Sustained A Lower Limb Amputation: Resource Manuals For Clinicians, Lauren Battles, Maia Sobolik

Occupational Therapy Capstones

It is becoming more common for individuals to sustain a lower limb amputation, thus impacting their ability to participate in functional tasks of daily living such as ambulation, balance, dressing, driving, and toileting. Approximately two million people within the United States are living with an amputation, most commonly in the lower extremity (Amputation Coalition, 2013). According to Resnik and Borgia (2011), by the year 2050, the number of lower limb amputations will increase significantly due to the aging population who encounter a variety of debilitating diseases such as diabetes, peripheral artery disease (PAD), dysvascular, and/or heart diseases. Weight management is …

Reducing Recidivism For Youth Through An Integrated Residential And Community-Based Program, Alexandra Berdal, Megan Meyer, Nicolet Sadlowski

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: Reportedly, 95% of youth in the juvenile justice system have had prior involvement with the juvenile justice system, suggesting that intervention does not adequately address the needs of these youth (Sedlack & Bruce, 2010; OJJDP, 2003). The purpose of this project was to address the problem of recidivism with an emphasis on preparing for transition from residential placements to community engagement.

Methods: An extensive literature review was conducted in order to understand the occupational performance deficits that youth in the juvenile justice system face in transitioning to their community. The information obtained from the literature review was then analyzed …

Assisting Occupational Therapists In North Dakota: An Agricultural Resource Guide, Teresa Bunn, Caitlin Layden

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Within the state of North Dakota, agriculture and farming are of the most essential and influential factors within the state's economy (Rathge et. al 2012). Rural communities are among the medically under-served areas within the United States; establishing the dire need of healthcare services (Hagglund et al., 1998; Schweitzer et al., 2011). A study conducted by Meyer and Fetsch (2006) deduced the four prominent disabilities affecting farmer's engagement in occupations as arthritis, spinal cord injury, amputation, and back injuries. Farmers, and their family members, are also at higher risk for work related stressors which may result in severely disabling conditions; …

Adherence To Home Programs In Patients With Acute Orthopedic Injuries Of The Upper Extremity, Brien J. Buckentine, Justin L. Fredrickson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this project was to explore the relationship between occupational therapy home program of clients with acute upper extremity injuries, client factors, and performance patterns that are influential in clients’ adherence to their prescribed home programs. A secondary purpose was to develop an instrument intended to measure adherence in patients with an orthopedic injury of the upper extremity.

Using the Occupational Adaptation Model and Occupational Therapy Practice Framework Domain and Practice as guiding foundations, a thorough literature review of client home program adherence was completed. This led to the development of a prospective, online survey designed to capture …