Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

Integrating Oncology Into Entry-Level Physical Therapist Curricula, Shana Harrington, Christopher M. Wilson, Morgan Zaranec, Lori Boright

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

Print issue available for $25.

Background: Cancer and its treatments commonly result in adverse effects that impair function, well-being, and quality of life, necessitating access to skilled physical therapists (PTs). Although oncology is an essential component of physical therapist practice, entry-level education in cancer rehabilitation has historically been limited. In 2025, the Essential Competencies for Physical Therapy Entry-Level Education in Oncology were developed through a mixed-methods, modified Delphi process, establishing 19 competencies across six domains and defining minimum expectations for new graduates. To support translation of these competencies into academic curricula, a practical implementation resource was needed.

Purpose: To …

Supporting Mental Health Through Occupation: Education For Women Living With And Beyond Breast Cancer, Rebekah Nicole Trammell, Lakeisa Boykin, Rebekah Jarrar

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States, and these women experience high rates of anxiety, depression, and disruption to daily routines and meaningful occupations. Evidence shows that education on self-management strategies, mindfulness-based interventions, and targeted occupational therapy interventions can support the mental health of women experiencing breast cancer. Furthermore, remaining engaged in meaningful occupations is essential to improving overall well-being and quality of life. The purpose of this capstone project was to develop and deliver accessible, evidence-based education in digital and print formats that specifically target identifying mental health challenges, self-management strategies, and …

Supporting Occupational Engagement And Regulation For Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis, Robert E. Oehl 3rd, Zeida Gutierrez

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Children diagnosed with pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) can face cognitive, physical, and emotional symptoms. The symptoms they experience can be barriers to participation in occupations and activities of daily living. For occupational therapy, there is very limited resources for pediatric MS specifically, and it is almost an unknown diagnosis. Occupational therapy in management can help ensure that children reach their developmental milestones in mobility, grasp, social, cognitive, and academic circles. This capstone project was meant to improve awareness and comprehensive treatment and resources through program development. The capstone experience resulted in a project featuring a webinar about pediatric MS and …

Unleashing Potential: Educating Ot Practitioners On Animal-Assisted Therapy For Children With Cp, Karley B. Smith, Lakeisa Boykin

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

The purpose of this capstone project is to develop and evaluate the efficacy of an animal-assisted therapy educational package for occupational therapy practitioners treating children with cerebral palsy. This educational package serves as an adjunctive occupational therapy service to address the ongoing need for engaging, holistic interventions that support motor development and participation. The primary focus of this project is practitioner education and training to promote safe, structured, and clinically sound integration of animal-assisted therapy into occupational therapy practice. The methods for this project included a literature review, informal needs assessment, development of an educational package, QR code video demonstrations, …

Self-Reported Confidence Of Dpt Students In Assessing And Treating Different Body Regions Within Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Practice, Scott W. Lowe, Jennifer Wiley

The Journal of Integrated Primary Care

Introduction

This study examined Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) students' self-reported confidence in assessing and treating musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions based on body regions. We hypothesized that there would be identifiable differences in self-perceived confidence across the different body regions. Most literature assessing DPT students' readiness for clinical practice has come from the perspective of educators and clinicians, whereas student perspectives have not been reported.

Methods:

The study is a descriptive, observational online survey.  Participants were final-year DPT students in the United States. Participants rated their comfort level in assessing and treating patients with MSK complaints, both in general and specifically …

Calm, Confident, Capable: An Educational Manual To Support Effective Oral Care For Children With Autism, Jared D. Morgan, Leah I. Stein Duker, Carrie Alvarado, Angela Labrie Blackwell

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Dental health professionals report limited confidence, perceived competence, and preparedness when providing oral health care to autistic children, which can significantly impact patient participation, quality of care, and overall dental experience. Autistic children are more likely to have dental conditions compared to their neurotypical peers. The methods of this project consisted of four phases being development, preview, revision, and dissemination. The purpose of this project was to develop an educational manual that provides dental health professionals with practical knowledge, skills, and abilities to address the needs of autistic children, to ensure effective oral health care. The expected outcomes of this …

The Feasibility Of A Single Educational Intervention To Improve Caregiver Confidence In Stroke Rehabilitation, Angelica Fedorchak, Jennifer E. Lape

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Caregivers play a critical role in providing support to stroke survivors during recovery, but they often face emotional, physical, and educational challenges that can lead to caregiver burden and burnout. Despite the significant impact education can have on caregivers, rehabilitation professionals in inpatient rehabilitation settings often struggle to provide comprehensive training due to time constraints and strict productivity standards. This feasibility study aimed to evaluate whether an individualized one-time caregiver education session, integrated into the discharge planning process, could enhance caregiver confidence and whether the necessary education could be practically integrated into the existing staffing, reimbursement, and organizational structure …

“Thrown To The Fire”: Exploring The Impact Of The Covid-19 Pandemic On The Education And Self-Efficacy In New Graduate Physical Therapists, Michael Furtado, Gregory Brusola, Dana Wild

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) education and practice, leading to emergency transitions to online learning and interruptions in clinical experiences across the United States. These disruptions raised concerns about their impact on new graduate DPTs' self-efficacy and professional readiness. The current issue addressed by this study is the effect of these disruptions on new graduate self-efficacy and confidence in their professional role. This mixed-method study aimed to assess the extent of clinical education disruption, evaluate its effects on self-efficacy, and explore the lived experiences of new graduate DPTs during the pandemic. Method: A survey …

Development And Evaluation Of A Training Program On Pain Assessments For Pediatric Care Teams In Skilled Nursing Facilities, Rudy Velasquez-Correa

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This capstone project was a program development and quality improvement initiative at Silver State Pediatrics focused on improving consistency and confidence of pediatric care staff in assessing and documenting pain in children, particularly those who are non-speaking and medically complex. Although validated tools such as the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC), revised-FLACC (R-FLACC), and Non-communicating Children’s Pain Checklist-Revised (NCCPC-R) exists, inconsistent training and limited interdisciplinary communication have led to variability in clinical practice. This project involved implementing a brief, 20-30-minute interdisciplinary training session for nursing and rehabilitation staff on the use of validated pediatric pain assessment tools and collaborative …

The Scoop On Feeding Therapy: Where Occupational Therapy Fits In, Katherine G. Epperson

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This capstone project was completed at Horn and Associates in Rehabilitation in Lexington, Ky. The primary ACOTE areas of focus included education, advocacy, and clinical practice skills. The goals of this project were to identify and fill gaps in knowledge related to the role of occupational therapy in feeding therapy in the pediatric population, support interdisciplinary collaboration, and create educational handouts to advocate and highlight the importance of occupational therapy in the realm of feeding.

A needs assessment was completed prior to completion of this capstone project in order to identify a need. For this needs assessment, I completed a …

An Ot Educational Program For Individuals With Upper And Lower Limb Amputations, Laurie R. Spinks Mrs, Cassandra Nelson

Spring 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

An OT approach to reducing prosthetic abandonment with an accessible guide to promote self sufficiency and community connections for individuals with amputations.

Occupational Therapy Fieldwork Educators’ Perceptions Of Ot Student Rapport-Building Abilities During Level Ii Fieldwork, Carson Elwell, Tylar Fallaw, Ryan Harley, Abby Key, Kathleen Maley, Ryan M. Carrick

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: The aim of this study was to inform Occupational Therapy (OT) practice and future OT educational content through identification of rapport- building components. Fieldwork educators are uniquely positioned to assess OT students’ abilities and readiness for client rapport building during fieldwork.

Methods: A descriptive survey of 55 fieldwork educators (FWEs) investigated skills that FWEs consider necessary for OT students to build client rapport at a Level II fieldwork experience. A Qualtrics survey assessed FWEs’ perceptions of OT student rapport- building readiness components at the beginning of Level II fieldwork.

Results: Data from 55 responses revealed that …

The Power Of Play: Enhancing Caregiver Engagement In Play-Based Development Through Educational Gym Signage At We Rock The Spectrum - Franklin, Elise Yeager

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed through partnership with We Rock the Spectrum - Franklin. We Rock the Spectrum is a network of indoor sensory play gyms that provide children of all abilities with the opportunity to play, develop sensory and motor skills, and engage in social interaction in a supportive environment. The purpose of this project was to develop guided play experiences that educate caregivers on the benefits of play and offer practical play ideas. Evidence-based gym signage was developed for various equipment and areas of the gym, providing key information, suggestions, and QR codes for further resources. Additional …

Empowerment Of Patients Through Sexual Wellness Programming, Carly M. Busby

OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract:

This doctoral capstone project was completed in collaboration with Dr. Jenny Archer with Archer Physical Pelvic Floor Therapy. This project highlights empowerment of Dr. Archer and her team through administrative tasks and empowerment of clientele through education materials. The primary deliverable of my project is a six week ‘course,’ addressing pelvic pain through evidence-based therapy practices. Other deliverables include education materials that cover an expanse of pelvic floor and pregnancy related topics. The prominent goal of this capstone project was empowerment through education.

What Numbers Don't Tell Us: Can Sociodemographic Factors Identify Grit, Resilience, And Imposter Phenomenon In Hybrid Doctor Of Physical Therapy Students?, Benton Lindaman, Marlena Calo, Brandon Ness, James Smoliga, Moyo B. Tillery, Suzanne Trotter, Liana Wooten, Shefali Christopher

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: To determine whether routinely collected sociodemographic admissions criteria (e.g., first-generation status, race, government assistance, youth employment) could serve as proxies for non-cognitive traits such as grit, resilience, and imposter phenomenon in hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students. Method: A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted among first-year students (N=100) across three accelerated, hybrid DPT programs. Students completed validated instruments measuring grit (Grit-O), general resilience (Brief Resilience Scale), academic resilience (Academic Resilience Scale), and imposter phenomenon (Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale) during their first semester. Sociodemographic data were obtained from admissions applications. Between-group comparisons were analyzed using independent t-tests and …

Professional Standards As Gateways, Not Barriers, In Occupational Therapy, Ryan Thomure

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

No abstract provided.

Perceived Educational Value Of Different Types Of Simulation In Occupational Therapy Education: A Mixed-Methods Study, Marie-Eve Bolduc, Barbara Shankland, Bernadette Nedelec

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Simulation is an important instructional method in occupational therapy (OT) programs. However, it remains unclear if the various types of simulation hold the same educational value. The objective of this study was to determine the perceived educational value of three different types of simulations (role-play between students, live scenarios with simulated patients [SPs] and tele-simulation with SPs) and the factors that contributed to a higher educational value. This cross-sectional study used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design. An online questionnaire was used, and two focus groups were conducted to develop a richer understanding of the answers obtained in the questionnaire. Forty-two …

Enhancing Occupational Therapy Education In Cancer Rehabilitation​, Elizabeth A. Dorn

Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium

This doctoral capstone project aimed to enhance entry-level occupational therapy (OT) education by developing and evaluating evidence-based instructional materials addressing musculoskeletal and oncology rehabilitation within a doctorate curriculum. Designed as an oncology-focused experience, the project involved a two-phase approach: (1) testing educational techniques by implementation and evaluation of an elbow pathology lecture and lab, and (2) development of an asynchronous oncology rehabilitation unit informed by outcomes from the initial phase. The project was guided by the ASSURE instructional design model and emphasized active, visual, and case-based learning strategies to support clinical reasoning.

Student outcomes were assessed using pre- and post-lecture …

The Impact Of Collaborative Testing In Biomechanics Coursework In An Entry-Level Doctor Of Physical Therapy Program, Linsey Hamilton Pt, Dpt, Dsc, Amy Swanton Spt, Elizabeth Lavine Spt, Kelsey Huettl Spt, Natalie Degener Spt

DPT Capstone Posters

Background and Purpose

• Student-centered alternative to traditional summative exams studied in multiple health professions
• Students complete an exam individually, then retake it in small groups
• Limited research in Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) education
• Shown to improve exam performance and reduce test anxiety
• Purpose: Evaluate effects on biomechanics exam performance among high-, mid-, and low-performing first-year DPT students

Methods

Design & Participants: Longitudinal cohort study of 34 first-year DPT students enrolled in a biomechanics course (Spring 2025)

Conclusion and Relevance

• Collaborative testing improved exam scores for high-, middle-, and low-performing students.
• Course letter grades not significantly impacted
• Supports collaborative testing …

Swing Bed Orientation Packet: Onboarding Education For New Staff And Patients/Families Covering Therapy Expectations, Interdisciplinary Roles, And Patient-Centered Care., Shayla M. Gibson

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

My Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) Capstone and Applied Leadership Experience (ALE) was completed at Saint Joseph Berea Hospital in Berea, Kentucky, with primary ACOTE focus areas in program development, leadership, and education. The purpose of this project was to develop and implement a standardized Swing Bed Orientation Packet to improve onboarding education for newly admitted swing-bed patients, their families, and staff.

A needs assessment, patient survey, and discussions with swing-bed coordinators and interdisciplinary team members identified gaps in patient and family education. An 11-question survey evaluated patients' understanding of the swing-bed program, therapy services, interdisciplinary roles, and discharge planning. …

Classroom Sensory Kits: Enhancing Student Engagement And Regulation, Rachel Topp

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This capstone project was completed at Henry County Public Schools (HCPS) in Kentucky. The primary ACOTE focus areas were program development and education. The purpose of this project was to promote inclusive learning environments for students with diverse sensory needs by increasing access to sensory tools and strategies. A needs assessment conducted in collaboration with the school-based occupational therapist (OT) identified gaps in sensory tools to support students, as well as a need for increased school staff education on sensory processing and classroom sensory strategies. To address these needs, five classroom sensory kits were developed and distributed to one preschool …

Early Intervention: The Importance Of Regulation & Therapy In The Nicu And Early Childhood, Acey Page

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This doctoral capstone project was completed in collaboration with T.J. Samson Pediatric Rehabilitation Services in Glasgow, Kentucky, with a focus on the ACOTE areas of education and advocacy. The purpose was to promote the importance of early intervention through the development of a website for therapists, healthcare providers, and caregivers. The website serves as a resource to support evidence-based pediatric therapy practices in the outpatient clinic and the NICU at T.J. Samson Community Hospital. Key topics include the effects of pain and stress in infancy, regulation, occupational therapy-based strategies, and advocacy for pediatric therapy services. A literature review highlighted that …

Improving Access To Therapeutic Knowledge: Caregiver Education For Children With Cerebral Palsy In Vietnam, Hallei N. Bittlinger

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

My doctoral capstone was completed at Hope Therapy Center (HTC), located in Da Nang, Vietnam through a virtual applied leadership experience. The primary ACOTE focus area for my capstone project included education and leadership. The primary goal of this capstone includes sustainably improving the knowledge and skills required for intervention planning for children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Related goals include, developing training resources for HTC staff to review to understand CP and the effect it has on occupational performance, as well as providing virtual consultations for the current client caseload to enhance current practices and provide evidence-based interventions into the …

From Bump To Baby: A New Parent Role Preparation Webinar, Emma K. Ward

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

The purpose of this Capstone project is to alleviate some of the stress and fear associated with the transition to parenthood through the development of a parental role preparation webinar that educates new and expecting parents on how to effectively care for and support the development of their child. The primary area of focus for the project is Education, and the project site is the Haven Care Center in Danville, Kentucky. A SWOT analysis and discussions with Haven Care staff indicated a need for educational materials that focus on caregiver skill development, understanding and responding to infant cues, infant developmental …

Ot At Work: Engineering Better Bodies For Better Manufacturing, Gracie Johnson

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This doctoral capstone project was completed at Manchester Tank, a manufacturing facility, and focused on the ACOTE areas of Education and Program Development. The Applied Leadership Experience (ALE) aimed to reduce workplace ergonomic risks, promote musculoskeletal injury prevention, and increase awareness of occupational therapy's role in manufacturing. A needs assessment including an employee pre-survey, workplace observations, employee feedback, and a review of current literature identified opportunities to improve ergonomic practices and employee knowledge related to work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) prevention.

In response, ergonomic evaluations were conducted within the facility, and evidence-based recommendations were developed to improve workstations and job tasks. …

First Steps: Supporting Infant Development And Family Bonding, Katana M. Evans

Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2026

First Steps: Supporting Infant Development and Family Bonding is a capstone project that was developed to bring awareness to the importance of development within the first few months of life, as well as exploring occupational therapy’s role with this population. The project focused on areas of program development, education, and clinical skill development, which were all developed following the completion of a scoping review. Educational materials, including a video library, were created for families to continue to access materials following the completion of the experience. These videos covered topics including safe sleep, milestones, tummy time, and more. Additionally, two sessions …

Improving Fall Prevention In Assisted Living Through Resident Engagement, Staff Education And Environmental Safety Initiatives, Sarah Emmons

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

My doctoral capstone project and Applied Leadership Experience (ALE) were completed at Parkview Assisted Living in Danville, Kentucky. The project focused on the ACOTE areas of education, program development, clinical practice, and leadership, with the goal of improving resident safety and independence through evidence-based fall prevention initiatives. A needs assessment was completed through staff interviews, resident observations, collaboration with facility leadership, and a review of current literature. Findings identified opportunities to enhance staff education related to fall prevention, dementia-informed communication, purposeful rounding, and environmental safety. To address these needs, I developed and implemented Steady Steps, a weekly occupation-based balance group …

Enhancing Occupational Therapy Students' Knowledge Of Menstrual Health: A Quantitative Pilot Study, Glynnis Jones, Skylar Edwards, Allison Bressette, Emilie Wright, Michelle Hiller

Journal of Occupational Therapy Education

This study examined preliminary effects of a targeted learning module on occupational therapy students’ knowledge and perceived understanding of the profession’s role in menstrual health. Although menstrual health is a universal biological process, it remains underrepresented in occupational therapy curricula. Guided by occupational justice theory, this project aimed to enhance awareness within professional education to promote equity. A quasi-experimental, pre-posttest design assessed changes following completion of a self-paced online module. Fourteen second-year students from accredited occupational therapy programs participated. Subjects completed pre- and post-intervention knowledge assessments and the Menstrual Health Understanding Questionnaire (MHUQ), a 5-point Likert scale measuring perceived understanding …

Balancing Acts: Exploring Chronic Illness’ Impact On Achievement In Graduate Health Education, Olivia J. Fulton, Lizeth S. Iboy, Bonnie Decker

Journal of Occupational Therapy Education

Graduate students with chronic illness encounter barriers as they navigate graduate programs to achieve their personal goals. Chronic illnesses are often invisible, which makes it more challenging to navigate the educational system. This study aimed to understand participants’ ability to engage in their academic environment and how the severity of their symptoms related to their diagnosis impacted participation in lectures, laboratory activities, exams, and competencies. Nineteen participants completed the online survey with questions regarding demographics and perception of how their condition impacted their academic performance on their best days versus worst days. Three assessment tools were incorporated into the survey: …

Promoting Office Worker Well-Being- An Occupational Therapy Approach To Workplace Ergonomics, David D. Roberts

OT Doctoral Capstones

Office-based employees face an increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to prolonged sitting, repetitive computer use, static postures, and poorly designed workstations. These risk factors contribute to discomfort, fatigue, and diminished work performance. While ergonomic education and workstation modifications have proven effective, evidence on the long-term impact of occupational therapy-led interventions in office settings remains limited. In response, an evidence-based ergonomic program was developed using an occupational therapy framework to enhance awareness, habits, performance, and overall well-being. The program included individualized ergonomic workstation assessments, tailored recommendations, educational presentations, instructional videos, movement and stretching resources, and ongoing follow-up support. Administrative …