Expanding Anatomy Academy In The Las Vegas Metropolitan Area: A Service Learning Project To Improve Childhood Health Through Supplemental Educational Sessions,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Expanding Anatomy Academy In The Las Vegas Metropolitan Area: A Service Learning Project To Improve Childhood Health Through Supplemental Educational Sessions, Alekzander Hall, Brandon Paige, Marlee Parkin, David Sanchez
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States, with approximately 18.5% of US children presenting with obesity. High levels of obesity are less common in higher income communities, but increasingly more prevalent in lower income communities. Currently in Clark County, Nevada, more specifically in lower socioeconomic communities and Title I schools within the Las Vegas area, there is an opportunity to educate students about the components of a healthier lifestyle to provide children with the tools to improve their health. Anatomy Academy (AA) is an eight-week health education program that was created to teach fourth and fifth grade …
Enhancing Therapeutic Use Of Self: The Value Of Unfolding Case Studies In Occupational Therapy Education,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Enhancing Therapeutic Use Of Self: The Value Of Unfolding Case Studies In Occupational Therapy Education, Janel Marie Gozum
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Objective: This capstone project evaluated the effectiveness of using unfolding case studies (UCS) as a supplemental instructional method to enhance occupational therapy (OT) students’ self-efficacy (SE) in applying therapeutic use of self (TUOS), a core competency in OT education.Methods: Four workshop modules were delivered to and completed by OT students (n=3) enrolled in the occupational therapy doctorate program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The sessions included instructional content, guided discussions, unfolding case study activities, and a TUOS competency. The Self-Efficacy for Therapeutic Use of Self (SETUS) Questionnaire was administered at four points throughout to monitor perceived self-efficacy over …
Acquired Brain Injury Education: Utilizing Unfolding Case Studies To Improve Critical Thinking Skills In Occupational Therapy Students,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Acquired Brain Injury Education: Utilizing Unfolding Case Studies To Improve Critical Thinking Skills In Occupational Therapy Students, Katherine Hathaway
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Acquired brain injuries (ABI), including traumatic brain injury, stroke, and anoxia, affect millions worldwide, and often result in long-term impairments in daily functioning. Despite the need for specialized, ongoing care, many individuals with ABI lack access to adequate long-term rehabilitation services, and families report substantial caregiver burden due to limited resources and poor care coordination. Occupational therapy plays a critical role in meeting the needs of this population; however, many entry-level practitioners feel underprepared to manage the complex challenges associated with ABI, largely due to limited training and exposure. This capstone project aimed to address this educational gap by implementing …
Ethnoracial Characterization Of Cognitive Function And Activities Of Daily Living In Neurodegenerative Diseases,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Ethnoracial Characterization Of Cognitive Function And Activities Of Daily Living In Neurodegenerative Diseases, Justine A. Bachmann
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Objective: Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), lead to progressive cognitive and functional decline, which significantly affects individuals’ ability to perform their everyday Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Occupational Therapist (OTs) assess cognitive impairments and their impact on daily function by utilizing tools like the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to guide intervention planning. However, research on the MoCA’s effectiveness across ethnoracial groups is limited, raising potential biases in the accuracy of cognitive assessments. This study examines the relationship between cognitive function, measured by the MoCA, and functional impairment, assessed using the Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ), among ethnoracial older adults …
The Effectiveness Of Occupational Therapy Objective Structured Clinical Exam & Student Self-Efficacy In Preparation For Fieldwork Rotation,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The Effectiveness Of Occupational Therapy Objective Structured Clinical Exam & Student Self-Efficacy In Preparation For Fieldwork Rotation, Angela Kay
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
This capstone project focuses on exploring the effectiveness of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Department of Occupational Therapy’s Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) on students’ perceived self-efficacy in preparation for and throughout fieldwork rotation. This retrospective study analyzed repeated measures of the New General Self-Efficacy (NGSE) Likert Scale collected from a sample of 49 occupational therapy students across five time points. Findings indicated a statistically significant increase in self-efficacy over time (p< .001). These results suggest that the OSCE may play a meaningful role in enhancing students’ self-efficacy in their clinical hands-on skills, supporting its continued use in occupational therapy academics.
The Impact Of Psychosocial Factors On Occupational Therapy Doctoral Students’ Communication With Fieldwork Educators: A Retrospective Analysis,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The Impact Of Psychosocial Factors On Occupational Therapy Doctoral Students’ Communication With Fieldwork Educators: A Retrospective Analysis, Melissa Montes
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
This capstone project investigates the impact of adverse psychosocial factors, such as depression, anxiety, and stress, on effective communication of occupational therapy doctoral (OTD) students with their fieldwork educators (FWEds) during level II fieldwork experiences at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Using a convergent parallel mixed methods design and retrospective analysis, the study integrates quantitative data from the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and qualitative data from the Fieldwork Experience Assessment Tool (FEAT) to explore how these factors affect communication and the management of the adverse psychosocial factors OTD students experience. This study involved 36 OTD students …
Exploring The Occupation Of Parenting With A Cognitive Disability,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Exploring The Occupation Of Parenting With A Cognitive Disability, Alysa Polley
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Objective: To investigate how parents with cognitive disabilities perform child-rearing tasks and barriers associated with their disability, to determine their needs and self-efficacy to improve the role of occupational therapy in supporting child-rearing for parents with cognitive disability.Design: Qualitative Case-study, Phenomenology Setting: Gigi's Playhouse Participant(s): Inclusion criteria: parents or expecting parents, individuals with a cognitive disability resulting from an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, English speaking, 18+, and autonomy to consent participation. Exclusion criteria: non-English speaking, individuals without a cognitive disability resulting from an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, and under 18. Measure(s): Semi-Structured Interview and Tool for Measuring Parental Self-efficacy. Results: …
Maximizing Functional Independence And Well-Being: The Impact Of Sensory Impairments On Iadls And Functional Mobility Skills,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Maximizing Functional Independence And Well-Being: The Impact Of Sensory Impairments On Iadls And Functional Mobility Skills, Jessica L. Ryan
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Objective: Sensory impairments involving vision and hearing among the adult population are predicted to double by 2030 (Gutherie et al., 2018). Individuals with experiences of sensory impairments like low vision are at risk of decreased functional participation in their homes and communities, which often leads to mental health concerns due to social withdrawal, experiences with environmental barriers, and limited occupational engagement (Bezyak et al., 2017; Gerami et al., 2015; Pfeiffer et al., 2020; Vreeken et al., 2020). This doctoral capstone focused on program evaluation to support adults with low vision and blindness in transferring learned skills from a simulated environment …
Gaming Participation: An Occupational Therapy Approach To Esports Ergonomics,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Gaming Participation: An Occupational Therapy Approach To Esports Ergonomics, Althea Rivera-Millare
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Competitive e-sport gamers are increasingly at risk for repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) due to the prolonged and repetitive nature of their gaming demands. Current healthcare protocols often overlook the unique ergonomic needs of this population, potentially leading to decreased occupational performance and dysfunction. This study aims to develop and evaluate an evidence-based ergonomic protocol tailored specifically to e-sport gamers who primarily use a mouse and keyboard, with the goal of reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and enhancing gaming performance. Grounded in the principles of occupational therapy, the study emphasizes occupation-based interventions that address the specific occupational demands of e-sport …
Comparison Of Gluteal Muscle Central Activation In Individuals With And Without Patellofemoral Pain,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Comparison Of Gluteal Muscle Central Activation In Individuals With And Without Patellofemoral Pain, Michael Carpio, John S. Donohue, Jacob P. Kissman
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Purpose/Hypothesis: Individuals with patellofemoral pain (PFP) often present with knee valgus during weight-bearing activities. Weakness in the gluteal muscles is thought to contribute to this condition, but recent studies suggest that hip weakness might be a secondary problem in this population. Central nervous system adaptations have been noted in persons with PFP, which can lead to altered muscle function, faulty movement patterns, and poor function. Experimentally, central activation can be quantified by a central activation ratio (CAR) via superimposed burst (SIB) during a maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) where the ratio of volitionally activated motor units to total motor units …
Lower Limb Loss Related Physical Therapy Outcome Measures: A Scoping Review,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Lower Limb Loss Related Physical Therapy Outcome Measures: A Scoping Review, Cassandra Evergreen, Harrison Hess, Ryan Orton
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
This scoping review aims to explore the use of performance-based outcome measures (PBOMs) and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in assessing the function of individuals with lower limb loss (LLL). The review identified common PBOMs, such as the 6- and 2-minute walk tests, Timed Up and Go (TUG), and Amputee Mobility Predictor (AMP), which evaluate mobility and overall physical function. PROMs, like the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ), focus on the prosthetic experience, including comfort, satisfaction, and quality of life. Both PBOMs and PROMs assess patient function, yet with differing emphases; PBOMs primarily evaluate physical performance while PROMs capture broader health attributes, …
Enhancing Documentation Proficiency: Feasibility Of Integrating Ehr Go & Unfolding Case Studies In Occupational Therapy Education,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Enhancing Documentation Proficiency: Feasibility Of Integrating Ehr Go & Unfolding Case Studies In Occupational Therapy Education, Jeffery D. Holland Jr.
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Objective: This capstone project evaluated the feasibility of integrating EHR Go and Unfolding Case Studies (UCS) into the first-year curriculum of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program. The goal was to enhance students’ SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan) note documentation proficiency and critical thinking skills through simulation-based learning and increased exposure to real-world documentation expectations and examples. Feedback from 33 clinicians at Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican Hospital – Siena Campus informed the workshop design, and OTD faculty and graduate assistants at UNLV provided input on curriculum integration feasibility.Methods: A quasi-experimental, non-equivalent groups pretest-posttest …
How Returning To Work And Sense Of Belonging Influence Acquired Brain Injury Survivors: A Descriptive Case Study,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
How Returning To Work And Sense Of Belonging Influence Acquired Brain Injury Survivors: A Descriptive Case Study, Shaina Saribay-Talana
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Purpose. This capstone project explored the experiences of an individual with acquired brain injury (ABI) returning to work (RTW), highlighting their sense of belonging (SoB) in the workplace. While literature emphasizes SoB's importance for mental health and quality of life, its impact on workplace reintegration for ABI individuals is underexplored. This project intended to address the gap in understanding ABI individuals' workplace belonging, potentially enhancing OT practices and outcomes for reintegration.Methods. A descriptive single case study approach using a qualitative phenomenology methodology, including semi-structured interviews and site observations, was used to gather insights from an individual who has re-entered the …
Clinical Decision Making In Pelvic Floor Therapy The Ot Difference,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Clinical Decision Making In Pelvic Floor Therapy The Ot Difference, Diana Sisorova
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a life-altering and debilitating chronic condition that affects 28 millions of women in the United States alone, the prevalence of (PFD) among women ranges from 11.5% to 35%, (Radzimińska et al., 2017; Wu et al., 2009). This study affirms how occupational therapy practitioners can be essential resource in treating pelvic floor dysfunction from a holistic perspective by addressing the wide range of activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) impacted by pelvic floor dysfunction, particularly in women. Through a qualitative descriptive case study and a single key informant—an occupational therapist …
Less Pain, More Game: Red Kinesiology Tape On Carpal Tunnel Syndrome And Occupational Performance In Fps Esports,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Less Pain, More Game: Red Kinesiology Tape On Carpal Tunnel Syndrome And Occupational Performance In Fps Esports, Sarah Ashley Taing
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Esports encompasses competitive video gaming, requiring tactical, mental, and physical skills. It offers benefits like improved cognition and social inclusion but poses risks such as musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) from repetitive movements. Prolonged gaming can lead to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), with symptom severity correlating with gaming duration (Bibi & Khan, 2019; Basuodan et al., 2023). Kinesiology tape (KT), a treatment used for decades, shows promise for pain relief and functional improvement (Kase et al., 2013). Developed in 1973 by Kase, KT increases circulation, reduces pain, and improves joint stability, though its effectiveness remains ambiguous. Additionally, the psychosocial impact of tape …
Rebuilding Father-Child Bonds: Group Therapeutic Writing For Fathers Transitioning From Incarceration,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Rebuilding Father-Child Bonds: Group Therapeutic Writing For Fathers Transitioning From Incarceration, Lynne Truong
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
This project was a group therapeutic writing (TW) workshop that was an addition to the existing program at Hope for Prisoners (HFP) to facilitate self-awareness of father-children relationship for fathers who are previously incarcerated. This doctoral capstone project assessed the impact of a group therapeutic writing workshop led by the occupational therapist capstone student on emotional awareness, self-reflection, and communication skills among previously incarcerated fathers. The program aimed at helping fathers who were incarcerated in rebuilding relationships with their children by enhancing confidence, self-awareness, and emotional expression. The four-week therapeutic writing program provided the emotional and relational needs of participants …
Emerging Adult Gamers: Nutritional Insights On Dietary Intake, Physical Well-Being, And Occupational Performance,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Emerging Adult Gamers: Nutritional Insights On Dietary Intake, Physical Well-Being, And Occupational Performance, Justine Dualan Tuason
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
This study aimed to gather insights from Emerging Adult (EA) gamers (between 18 and 24) regarding their nutritional literacy, dietary patterns, and its potential impacts on their occupational performance and physical well-being. There is a need to gather gamers' perspectives to identify the specific facilitators and barriers regarding their ability to discern appropriate dietary choices, as it provides more information regarding preventative and client-centered measures for future healthcare professionals. Occupational Therapists (OTs) are uniquely equipped to address this population's needs, as the profession's holistic principles allow for a well-rounded and sustainable approach. Additionally, growing emphasis is placed on preventative rather …
Empowering Families: Enhancing Early Intervention Through Caregiver Coaching,
2025
University of South Dakota
Empowering Families: Enhancing Early Intervention Through Caregiver Coaching, Kylie G. Wersal
Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations
The early years of life are critical for shaping developmental outcomes, especially for children with disabilities, developmental delays, or challenges. This 14-week capstone project aimed to strengthen caregiver coaching strategies within the early intervention (EI) setting using Minnesota’s Evidence-Based Quality Intervention Practices (EQIP) approach, the Primary Service Provider (PSP) model, and the Ecology of Human Performance (EHP) model. Emphasis was placed on developing in-depth clinical skills, fostering transdisciplinary collaboration, and advocating for improved awareness of the EI referral process. Caregiver coaching promoted routine-based, family-centered strategies that supported both child development and enhanced caregivers’ confidence. Self-reflection and mentor observation indicated measurable …
Rays Of Resilience:Tbri® Nurture Group© Intervention For Improved Social-Emotional Development In Head Start,
2025
University of South Dakota
Rays Of Resilience:Tbri® Nurture Group© Intervention For Improved Social-Emotional Development In Head Start, Madison Carlson
Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations
Children exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) face challenges that impact their developmental trajectory, family dynamics, and occupational engagement (CDC, 2021a). Rays of Resilience is a trauma-informed occupational therapy capstone project designed to enhance social-emotional skills in preschoolers at a rural Head Start program guided by the TBRI® framework and the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) model. Using Nurture Group© small group intervention, collaboration with staff, and engagement with caregivers, this project targeted social-emotional development and relationship building in children with a higher risk of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Fifteen students participated in weekly lessons focused on self-regulation, identifying emotions, and communicating wants …
Functional Electrical Stimulation For Foot Drop: A Narrative Review,
2025
University of South Dakota
Functional Electrical Stimulation For Foot Drop: A Narrative Review, Garrett R. Watson
Honors Thesis
Foot drop (FD) is a neuromuscular impairment that limits ankle dorsiflexion during walking. It often leads to unsafe gait patterns, increases the risk of falls, and reduces independence. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) has emerged as a promising rehabilitation tool that activates muscles or nerves to improve foot clearance and support motor recovery. Unlike passive devices such as ankle-foot orthoses, FES promotes active neuromuscular engagement and may foster long-term improvements through neuroplastic adaptation. This narrative review examines the causes and clinical consequences of FD and evaluates the role of FES in restoring functional mobility. Key topics include FES technologies, stimulation parameters, …
