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Capstone Abstract
The purpose of the doctoral capstone is to provide in-depth exposure in one of the following focus areas: clinical practice, research, administration, leadership, program/policy development, advocacy, education, and theory development. The requirements for capstone include preparation through a completed literature review, needs assessment, goals/objectives, and evaluation plan. (Xavier University Department of Occupational Therapy, 2020). The capstone development was guided via the literature review and needs assessment results, in combination with the capstone student's professional interests to create materials and projects that met both the site and the student's needs. Through the completed literature review, it was learned that caregivers question their ability to fulfill the role of primary caregiver to a medically complex infant upon discharge from the NICU (Jefferies, 2014). Providing accurate and meaningful information prior to discharge aids in the transition to home (Aydon et al., 2018). This led to the development of the purpose of the capstone, to enhance education, program development, and advanced practice within a Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care unit. The doctoral capstone resulted in the production of six therapists' educational materials and one educational packet for NICU caregivers. The capstone projects and experiences were completed simultaneously with close collaboration between the site mentor and student to ensure the development of sustainable, meaningful, practice-related projects (Stephenson & Barron, 2021). The doctoral capstone allowed for sustainability regarding therapist's training and systematic screening protocols for an IRB-approved grant-funded feasibility study. The student developed, designed, and implemented a quality improvement case series. Lastly, the student gained emerging clinical competency to conduct occupational therapy treatment sessions in the NICU. The doctoral capstone proved to be a positive experience fostering exposure in a specialized area of practice along with the integration of research and clinical responsibilities.
Publication Date
12-2023
Key Terms
doctoral capstone, education, research, high-risk infants
Student Contact
springerc98@gmail.com
Recommended Citation
Springer, Carolyn and Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Center, "Enhancing Caregiver Education within a Level IV NICU Neonatal Intensive Care Unit" (2023). Occupational Therapy Capstones. 1.
https://www.exhibit.xavier.edu/ot_capstone/1
