An Exploration of Pediatric Occupational Therapist's Perspectives on Functional and Assistive Mobility

Authors

Jennifer Allison, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
Amy Lyons-Brown, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

Background: Occupational therapists (OTs) are highly skilled in assessing context, environment, and sensory-motor needs which are critical in addressing functional mobility and implementing assistive mobility devices. There is limited research on pediatric OT’s role in functional mobility. This study aims to explore pediatric OT's roles and perceptions of functional mobility and the implementation and use of assistive mobility devices.

Methods: Data was collected via an online survey with an option to participate in a follow-up interview. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to summarize trends and differences in the data.

Results: Twenty licensed OTs working in a variety of pediatric settings participated in the survey. Four participated in the interview. Participants indicated that they perceived functional mobility as part of their role with less emphasis on their role when assistive mobility devices are introduced. Three key themes emerged from qualitative data: functional mobility as a means to an end, disconnect between perception and practice, and blurred lines in scope of practice.

Discussion: Occupational therapists have an important role in addressing functional mobility, including the implementation and use of assistive mobility devices. However, there is a lack of clarity regarding scope of practice when addressing functional mobility as well as addressing implementation and use of assistive mobility devices.

Publication Date

Spring 4-15-2024

Publisher

Universtiy of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Functional mobility, Assistive mobility, Pediatric, Complex rehabilitation, Assistive technology

Medical Subject Headings

Assistive devices, Assistive technology, Pediatric, Developmental disability

Disciplines

Disability Studies | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the in person OTD Capstone Symposium, held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on April 10-17, 2024.

Recommended Citation

Allison, J., & Lyons-Brown, A. (2024, April 15). An Exploration of Pediatric Occupational Therapist's Perspectives on Functional and Assistive Mobility. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2024/30