Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Sarah Nielsen

Second Advisor

Lucy Weathers

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this doctoral experience was divided into two categories: a) advanced clinical practice and b) needs assessment and completion of project. The advanced clinical practice objectives were to implement evidence-based evaluations and interventions to children with cancer, collaborate with parents and interprofessional team members, and adhere to safety precautions for children with cancer. The project-based objectives focus was to translate knowledge to practice by aiding in the transition process of children with cancer when leaving the hospital.

Method: The primary author completed a literature review of best practices for children with cancer prior to their arrival on-site. Once on-site, the author completed direct patient care with clients as well as collaborated with parents and other healthcare professionals on-site. The author was able to bring best practice interventions, an evaluation, and a project to help bridge the gap in services some children experience when returning home.

Results: The results of this advance clinical practice placement were that the author was able to bring an evidence-based evaluation and interventions in areas of need. The evaluation brought on-site included an evidence-based subjective assessment in the area of pediatric chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). One intervention the author was able to implement in an area of need addressed engagement of toys with a medically complex child undergoing cancer treatment. The author was also able to create a guide for parents to implement therapeutic activities at home to help bridge the gap in services some children receive when returning home.

Conclusions: Results of this advanced clinical practice placement included new evaluation and intervention tools that can be used in the pediatric cancer population. The author also showed that using the ecology of human performance model is helpful when completing the occupational therapy process with complex medical patients. The anticipated results of the home activities guide are that it will aide parents in helping their child with ataxia continue to make improvements at home. However, the implications of the home program are ongoing and the author and site will continue to receive feedback from consumers as this product is implemented in practice

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