Date of Award
5-2025
Document Type
Oral Presentation/Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Health Science
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Allison Naber
Keywords
burns, occupational therapy, pain management, mental health, education
Subject Categories
Occupational Therapy
Abstract
This capstone project centered around gaining advanced clinical skills and knowledge, advocating for occupational therapy’s role in burn rehabilitation, and creating education on topics such as pain management and mental health. This project was completed at the Medical University of South Carolina Burn Center with a diverse population throughout the continuum of care and various functional and psychosocial needs. The theoretical framework supporting this project was the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and Engagement. Assessment tools included range of motion, manual muscle testing, sensation, a pain analogue scale, and the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. Clinical skills were gained throughout the burn rehabilitation continuum as demonstrated through tracking materials, a continuing education course, and onboarding and competency checklists. Educational outcomes were achieved through the development of educational materials for patients, families, caregivers, students, and the interprofessional burn team. Leadership objectives were addressed through Burn Awareness Week activities and educational materials. Overall, this project demonstrated the need for occupational therapy services in burn rehabilitation, fostered the development of advanced clinical skills and knowledge in a burn setting, and provided educational materials for patients, families, and other medical professionals on common topics addressed throughout the continuum of care in a burn setting.
Recommended Citation
Mertz, Mackenzie, "Beyond the Flames: Occupational Therapy Approaches to Address Pain Management, Mental Health, and Occupational Engagement in Burn Patients" (2025). Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations. 151.
https://red.library.usd.edu/ot-capstone/151