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

Melissa Schaeffer

Second Advisor

Nicole Quint

Date of original Performance / Presentation

January 2025

Publication Date / Copyright Date

1-1-2025

Abstract

Infants with congenital heart defects (CHD) are living longer due to surgical advancements, which results in increased incidence of delays and use of ancillary services as they grow and develop. Impairments in motor, cognitive, social-emotional, behavioral, and adaptive skills have been identified by researchers. Even though there is significant research that identifies the high incidence of developmental impairments, there is still limited evidence about rehabilitation interventions with this population. Due to the medical complexity and frequent hospitalizations, these infants are at risk of developing further delays, and these impairments commonly associated with congenital heart defects require interventions to achieve age-appropriate skills and engage in age-appropriate occupations. Occupational therapists play a critical role in the developmental and rehabilitation teams. Three models were integrated to guide the process and development of this capstone: Design Thinking, Hypothetical Deductive Reasoning, and the Dynamic Model of Occupation-Based Practice. Based on a needs assessment, recommendations for occupational therapists were identified and categorized into domains. The Delphi Method was employed, comprising three rounds of surveys completed by an expert panel of occupational therapists. Three rounds were used to develop and validate the clinical framework. This capstone project led to the development of an occupation-centered clinical framework, created through a comprehensive, rigorous process. The clinical framework presents a proposed theoretical basis for developing a practice protocol that occupational therapists can implement when evaluating and treating infants and toddlers with CHD.

Disciplines

Occupational Therapy

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