Date of Award

2006

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Gail Bass

Keywords

Child; Artificial Limbs -- psychology; Prostheses and Implants

Abstract

Many emotions, questions, and concerns may arise for parents and caregivers upon learning that their child has a limb deficiency. Educational resources for parents of children with limb deficiencies may be lengthy, time consuming to find and read, and full of medical jargon. The purpose of this scholarly project was to develop an educational booklet that is concise and easy to read for parents and caregivers of children with limb deficiencies.

An extensive literature review was conducted addressing the physical and psychological impacts children with limb deficiencies experience during daily activities. Parents with children who have limb deficiencies, individuals with limb deficiencies, and medical professionals who work with this population were consulted to gain a qualitative insight into unaddressed areas of concern. Additional literature which described the use of prosthetic devices and their impacts on functional independence was reviewed.

Based on this review of literature, four areas of concern were identified: (1) there is a lack of immediate resources provided to families, (2) limited resources are available for medical professionals to communicate with this population, (3) multiple client factors and performance skills are affected when a child has a limb deficiency, and (4) prosthetic devices are commonly utilized to increase functional independence in children with limb deficiency.

A user-friendly, educational booklet for parents and caregivers was developed to address identified areas of concern. The booklet was designed for occupational therapist to give to medical professionals and they, in tum, can give it to parents who have just learned their child has a limb deficiency. This booklet defines common terminology, addresses physical and psychological impacts for both the parents and child, and introduces the rehabilitative process including the use of a prosthetic device. The booklet is a resource that addresses social and emotional aspects of limb deficiencies for children and parents, provides a foundation of knowledge and suggestions for additional resources, and facilitates communication with support groups and medical professionals.

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