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Description

Occupational therapists in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) provide specialized care, including infant positioning, feeding, handling techniques, and anticipatory guidance. While the American Occupational Therapy Association has outlined the role, little research has explored how therapists perceive their own occupational and professional identities in this highly specialized setting. This study explored the perspectives of NICU occupational therapists to better understand how their roles and identities are shaped within the NICU environment. A mixed-methods descriptive design was used. Data was collected through an electronic survey including Likert-scale and open-ended questions, with optional 30-minute follow-up interviews. Snowball and convenience sampling were used through social media outlets, occupational therapy discussion forums, and professional contacts. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics; qualitative responses were examined using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase process (2021). Eighteen occupational therapists working in the NICU completed the survey, and four participated in follow-up interviews. Thematic analysis revealed four overarching themes: emotional labor and motivational factors, identity development in the NICU context, navigating and defining the OT role, and systemic and cultural influences. Quantitative data supported the themes by showing significant statistical correlations between feelings of pressure to conform, professional identity, sense of value on the team, and strength of occupational identity, which revealed key professional identity patterns. Professional identity in the NICU is shaped by emotional labor, dynamic personal values, and interdisciplinary challenges. Identity is lived, not static, and evolves through experience. Role ambiguity and systemic barriers affect clarity and support. Findings highlight the need for advocacy, role definition, and stronger structural supports to reinforce NICU OT identity.

Publication Date

Summer 8-18-2025

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Intensive care unit, Neonatal, Social identification, Occupational therapy, Infant, Patient care team

Medical Subject Headings

Intensive care unit, Neonatal, Social identification, Occupational therapy, Infant, Patient care team

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium, held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on August 18, 2025.

The Professional and Occupational Identities of NICU Occupational Therapists

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