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Description
This doctoral capstone project and Applied Leadership Experience (ALE) addressed the elevated risk of postpartum depression (PPD) among mothers with infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Completed at Norton Women’’s and Children’s Hospital in Louisville, KY, the project focused on leadership and advocacy, aiming to raise awareness of maternal mental health, highlight occupational therapy’s role, and create educational infographics for both NICU mothers and staff.A needs assessment was conducted through informal staff discussions, observation, and an anonymous survey distributed to NICU mothers. Mothers reported emotional distress, guilt, isolation, and limited involvement in infant care. Research supports that NICU mothers experience PPD at significantly higher rates, up to 40% –yet routine screening is not consistently implemented. Literature also emphasizes the connection between maternal mental health and infant development, highlighting occupational therapy’s potential role in promoting caregiver engagement, emotional regulation, and restoration of the maternal role. To address these needs, an educational infographic was developed specifically for NICU mothers. It includes key statistics, quotes from survey participants, and information on how OT can support maternal well-being and mother-infant bonding. A secondary infographic was created for NICU staff to promote awareness and encourage OT consultation. The infographics were evaluated for alignment with survey findings and best practices and distributed as an educational resource. This project strengthened my leadership, advocacy, and clinical reasoning skills. It highlights the need to expand OT services in NICU settings to support maternal mental health through trauma-informed, family-centered care during this critical period.
Graduation Date
2025
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy
Degree Type
Open Access Capstone
Document Type
Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
Site Mentor
Crystal Cassity MS, OTR/L
Comments
Link to presentation: https://youtu.be/54ZqhV86E_Q