Occupational Therapy in the Emergency Department
Presented by Tina M. Sauber
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This introductory course delves into the pivotal role of occupational therapists (OTs) within the emergency department (ED) setting, addressing the gap in literature regarding the exclusive impact of occupational therapy outcomes in this context. Participants will explore evidence supporting OT contributions, including reducing hospital admissions and readmissions, increasing patient and staff satisfaction, and decreasing average wait times in the ED. Additionally, OTs play a crucial role in cost savings and optimizing functional performance and well-being by addressing physical and behavioral health needs. Occupational therapists' educational backgrounds uniquely equip them to contribute to interprofessional teams in the ED, with expertise in medical, social, behavioral, psychological, psychosocial, and occupational sciences. This course provides evidence-based guidelines for developing and implementing occupational therapy services in the ED, highlighting the benefits of OT services, assessments, and interventions for providing client-centered care in this emerging practice setting. Join us to discover how OTs, with their unique skill set, are essential members of the ED team, performing evaluations, providing treatment interventions, and accessing community services to enhance patient outcomes.
Learning Objectives
- Recognize the role of OT on an interprofessional team in the emergency department setting
- List steps to implement OT in the ED
- Outline appropriate assessments focusing on safety and functional performance for next-level-of-care needs
- Identify appropriate interventions focusing on the physical and behavioral aspects of condition management and well-being
Meet your instructor
Tina M. Sauber
Dr. Tina M. Sauber received her BS and MS in occupational therapy at the University of North Dakota and her doctoral degree in occupational therapy with specialty track in practice administration from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Dr. Sauber is the associate director for the OTA/PTA Bridge to OTD Program…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Overview of Evidence for OT in the ED
In this chapter, we delve into the crucial role of occupational therapy (OT) within emergency departments (EDs), addressing current trends and highlighting OT's integration into the interprofessional team. Through a concise lecture format, learners will gain insights into how OT practices intersect with ED workflows, contributing to enhanced patient outcomes and holistic care delivery.
2. Planning for Success: Program Implementation
This chapter focuses on the pivotal steps involved in implementing successful occupational therapy programs within emergency departments, covering aspects such as referral processes, needs assessments, implementation strategies, and program evaluation. Through lecture and an insightful interview with Mari Tada, OTD, OTR/L, learners will gain practical insights into utilizing tools like the Emerg-OT manual, conducting modified needs assessments, and implementing the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle to ensure program success.
3. Assessment and Interventions of the OT Visit in the ED
This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of occupational therapy assessments and interventions within the emergency department, covering both physical and behavioral impairments. Learners will gain insights into effective condition-management strategies, documentation practices, and standard billing procedures. Additionally, the chapter explores the utilization of outcome measures, recommended resources, and CPT codes to optimize OT services in the ED.
