Occupational Therapy Program Student Theses, Dissertations and Capstones

Document Type

Dissertation - NSU Access Only

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (Dr.OT)

Copyright Statement

All rights reserved. This publication is intended for use solely by faculty, students, and staff of Nova Southeastern University. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, now known or later developed, including but not limited to photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author or the publisher.

First Advisor

Penelope Moyers

Date of original Performance / Presentation

January 2025

Publication Date / Copyright Date

1-1-2025

Abstract

Critically ill patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) are at heightened risk for physical deconditioning, cognitive impairment, delirium, and long-term functional decline. Although evidence supports early rehabilitation and implementation of the ABCDEF bundle to improve patient outcomes, the specific role of occupational therapy within the ICU remains underrepresented in both research and clinical practice. This capstone project addressed a documented practice gap related to limited occupational therapy presence, confidence, and competence in the ICU setting by developing an evidence-based education and training program for practicing occupational therapists. Guided by the Six Disciplines of Breakthrough Learning, Human-Centered Design, Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice, Ecology of Human Performance, and Kirkpatrick’s Four Levels of Training Evaluation, the project employed a needs assessment, rapid systematic literature review, and iterative prototyping process. The resulting training experience integrated evidence-based content, interactive learning strategies, case-based applications, role-play scenarios, and self-reflection tools to enhance therapists’ knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to ICU practice and the ABCDEF bundle. Findings from the needs assessment demonstrated low confidence and knowledge among occupational therapists regarding ICU-specific interventions and advocacy, reinforcing the need for targeted training. This project contributes to occupational therapy education by offering a structured, theory-driven training model designed to support clinical competence, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthen the role of occupational therapy in critical care settings.

Disciplines

Occupational Therapy

Keywords

ABCDEF Bundle; Intensive Care Unit; Training

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