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Description
This doctoral capstone project was completed in collaboration with T.J. Samson Pediatric Rehabilitation Services in Glasgow, Kentucky, with a focus on the ACOTE areas of education and advocacy. The purpose was to promote the importance of early intervention through the development of a website for therapists, healthcare providers, and caregivers. The website serves as a resource to support evidence-based pediatric therapy practices in the outpatient clinic and the NICU at T.J. Samson Community Hospital. Key topics include the effects of pain and stress in infancy, regulation, occupational therapy-based strategies, and advocacy for pediatric therapy services. A literature review highlighted that repeated pain experienced by infants, particularly in the NICU, can negatively affect nervous system and brain development. Early intervention can be beneficial for infants at risk. A needs assessment revealed a desire among rehabilitation staff for therapy advocacy within the NICU and for accessible educational resources. The NICU at this site was a recent development. Therapy involvement had been limited, providing an opportunity for advocacy. Project outcomes were evaluated through evidence-based implementation and staff feedback. Following advocacy efforts, therapy referrals for NICU infants increased, and several educational resources developed were incorporated onto the site’s official website by the marketing team. Leadership was demonstrated through effective communication and collaboration while reinforcing the value of occupational therapy in promoting regulation, development, and meaningful occupations for infants and children. Overall, the project successfully addressed identified needs through education, advocacy, and evidence-based resources.
Graduation Date
2026
Keywords
Capstone, Education, Advocacy, Early Intervention
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy
Degree Type
Book
Site Mentor
Elizabeth Loy (M.S., CCC-SLP)
Comments
Link to presentation: https://youtu.be/QRqyy-Fpgbo