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Description
This project aimed to educate mothers and healthcare providers about the role of occupational therapy (OT) in infant feeding, with the goal of increasing occupational performance satisfaction by promoting appropriate referrals to OT lactation specialists. A significant gap exists in understanding the distinction between other healthcare professionals and OT roles in infant feeding, and the literature lacks detailed OT interventions to support mothers during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding struggles. To address this, I conducted a patient survey to guide the creation of a pamphlet outlining OT’s role in feeding and developed a presentation demonstrating OT interventions for both providers and mothers. These educational tools were designed to raise awareness, improve communication, and boost referrals to OT services. At my research site, I demonstrated leadership by applying evidence-based research to create accessible materials that responded to the clinic’s challenge of relying on word-of-mouth for referrals. By distributing these materials more broadly, the project aims to expand the clinic’s referral network and support earlier OT intervention for infants with feeding difficulties.
Graduation Date
2025
Keywords
breast-feeding, bottle feeding, lactation, Occupational Therapy, referrals, education, advocacy
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy
Degree Type
Open Access Capstone
Document Type
Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
Site Mentor
Abbey Fields, OTR/L, IBCLC, CST
Comments
Link to Presentation: https://youtu.be/WgodjfJ57L4