Document Type

Capstone

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are identified as the leading cause of death globally, often stemming from factors such as hypertension, smoking, and obesity. Despite the effectiveness of preventative care services, including occupational therapy, they remain underutilized. Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) can play a vital role in CVD prevention and management by addressing identified research gaps and educating allied health professionals in cardiac rehabilitation facilities. This project emphasizes the importance of occupational engagement and holistic approaches, aligning with principles outlined in the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework {OTPF). The Transtheoretical Model (TTM) and the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and Engagement (CMOP-E) are recommended as guiding frameworks for individuals at risk for CVDs, stressing early intervention and collaboration among healthcare providers. To address these issues, a presentation was conducted for a group of six allied health professionals at a local cardiac rehab facility, including nurses, exercise physiologists, respiratory therapists, and dieticians, aiming to advocate for increased occupational therapy involvement. The primary goal was to enhance the participants' understanding of the OT role in preventing and managing CVDs alongside traditional exercise-based rehabilitation. Pre- and post-surveys were administered to gauge knowledge growth, revealing a significant increase in the participants' ability to describe occupational therapy's role, identify common interventions, recognize the benefits of addressing psychosocial factors, and acknowledge the importance of including OT services.

Publication Date

4-2024

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