Document Type
Capstone
Abstract
Early rehabilitation for patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) has been the topic of many current research studies. The efficacy of providing occupational therapy (OT) as part of the early rehabilitation/early engagement program has also been assessed, however many OT practitioners are not being utilized or viewed as an integral member of the interdisciplinary team. The purpose of this capstone project was to identify the main barriers that OTs face in the treatment of ICU patients through pre-survey; research current literature to identify solutions to the identified barriers; compile the research into a comprehensive document to present and disseminate to OT practitioners (specifically those working at UNC Medical Center), during a training session to assist them in the treatment of ICU patients; and to assess the effectiveness of the educational document/training session through a post-survey. As a result of this project, it was found that the educational document and training session proved to be effective and helpful for OT practitioners working in the ICU's at UNC Medical Center. Results from the post-survey indicate that the OT practitioners feel more educated/knowledgeable regarding parameters/treatment options, empowered to self-advocate for greater involvement in the ICU, and feel more comfortable when treating ICU patients. Due to the results of this project, OT practitioners ought to feel compelled to continue to self-advocate and assert their important and valuable role as a member of the ICU interdisciplinary team.
Publication Date
2019
Recommended Citation
Wright, Sarah, "Facilitating Early Engagement in Occupational Therapy in the Intensive Care Unit" (2019). MOT Student Capstones. 91.
https://riches.cabarruscollege.edu/mot-student-capstones/91
