Date of Award
5-2026
Document Type
Oral Presentation/Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Health Science
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Shana Cerny
Keywords
neonatal intensive care unit, occupational therapy, caregiver education, early intervention, pediatrics
Subject Categories
Occupational Therapy
Abstract
Infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are at increased risk for feeding difficulties, developmental delays, and sensory processing challenges due to prematurity and complex medical needs. These effects often persist into the first years of a child’s life, and many receive early intervention or outpatient therapies. Occupational therapy plays a critical role in addressing these concerns while supporting caregivers in building knowledge and confidence. The purpose of this capstone project was to develop in-depth clinical skills in the NICU and outpatient early intervention settings, educate caregivers, and complete continuing education courses related to neonatal and pediatric therapeutic care. The project was completed in a Level III NICU and an outpatient pediatric setting, where the student engaged in direct patient care and interdisciplinary collaboration. The capstone student collaborated with members of the interdisciplinary team through observation and co-treatments to better understand each member’s role. Continuing education courses were completed weekly to deepen the student’s knowledge of neonatal developmental care as it pertained to clinical learning. Capstone outcomes included completing evaluations and intervention logs, creating caregiver handouts, participating in interdisciplinary care and baby weigh clinics, and completing neonatal-focused continuing education courses. The student’s personal confidence in their ability to educate caregivers was measured using a 7-point Likert scale and showed improvement over time. This capstone experience emphasized the importance of caregiver education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based occupational therapy in supporting infant development in the NICU and outpatient pediatric settings.
Recommended Citation
Wilson, Brooke A., "Applying Evidence-Based Practice to Guide Occupational Therapy in the NICU and Outpatient-Based Early Intervention Settings" (2026). Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations. 166.
https://red.library.usd.edu/ot-capstone/166