Friday Sessions from 7:30 AM – 8:20 AM
Enhancing Occupational Therapy’s Role in Social Emotional Learning
Shelley Wallock, PhD, OTR/L, Megan Smith, OTS, Katherine Nelson, OTS, Jacqueline Conklin, MS, OTR/L
This presentation defines social and emotional learning (SEL) and describes the role of occupational
therapists in implementing SEL into educational settings. Participants will engage in evidence-based SEL
activities and learn how to integrate them into the daily routines of children.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Children & Youth
Handwriting Instruction in School: What is the Evidence?
Teresa Carroll, MS OTR/L
This presentation will provide occupational therapists with an overview of the evidence that supports
the need for handwriting instruction in school curricula.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Children & Youth
Using a FAQs Folder to Alleviate Student Anxiety
Beena G Patel, MS, PhD, Marianne Dahl, MBA, OTR/L
Student anxiety during a hybrid course manifests itself through an increase in e-mails to the instructor.
To address student concerns, a frequently asked questions (FAQ) folder was integrated into Blackboard,
resulting in a decrease of anxious e-mails to the instructor.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Education/Field Work
Perceived Competence of Occupational Therapists in Mental Health
Mary Seamon-Zellers, MS, OTR/L, Bridget Chigumira, OTS, Aubrey Sparling, OTS, Patrisha Solomon, OTS,
Mia Travers, OTS
MSOT students utilized a self-made qualitative questionnaire to survey OTs in PA regarding perceived
competence using behavioral and mental health skills. Results indicated participants felt competent
providing mental health services across settings, but increased educational opportunities were
suggested.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
POTA Annual Conference
Mental Health
October 23, 2015
Facilitating Level II Fieldwork Readiness through Mentorship
Karen Ann Cameron, PhD, OTD, M.Ed., OTR/L, Megan Averett, OTS, Danielle Bruno, OTS,
Elizabeth Magee, OTS, Kelsie Rafine, OTS, Alyssa Tallman, OTS
This short course will present the findings of the qualitative research study designed to answer the
question: What is the impact of peer mentoring on level II fieldwork preparation and considerations to
best prepare students to enter level II fieldwork.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Education/Field Work
Diverse OT: Increasing Diversity within the Field of OT
Lauren Yaker, MS, OTR/L, MPH, MA, Josselyn Dressel, MS, OTR/L, Erin Shervinskie, MS, OTR/L
The Centennial Vision states by 2017 OT will become a diverse workforce to meet the occupational
needs of members in society. OT programs need to implement strategies to recruit, retain, and graduate
minority students to increase diversity in the workforce.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Education/Field Work
Integrating Twitter in the Classroom #StudentEngagement
Shelby Smith, OTS, Emma Turner, OTS, Ashley Tweed, OTS, Crystal Vu, OTS,
Amy Mattila, MBA, MS, OTR/L
There is a trend in current literature to support the use of Twitter in the classroom for enhancing
student engagement. This study assesses the effectiveness of Twitter on student engagement in a
masters level occupational therapy course.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Education/Field Work
Friday Posters from 10:30-12:20 PM
Exploring Therapists' Perspectives of iPad Use in School Based Practice
Andrea Collins, OTD OTR/L, Melanie Clabia, OTS, Kaitlyn Cully, OTS, Deborah Keys, OTS,
Kaitlyn Pagnotta, OTS
The purpose of this study was to discover the various uses of the iPad by school-based therapists while
exploring their opinions of this new piece of technology. Students researchers sought to examine to
what extent the iPad is being used in school based practice as well as therapists' overall opinions
POTA Annual Conference
October 23, 2015
regarding its use. Varying viewpoints were found and shared from a total of 116 participants via paper
and online survey.
Poster Presentation
Children & Youth
Use of Electronic Devices to Enhance IADL Performance in Autism
Melissa Crawford, OTS, Colleen Maher, DOT, OTR/L, CHT
This poster presentation demonstrates how PDAs, iPads, and electronic devices enhance skill
development in IADL performance for children with high functioning autism.
Poster Presentation
Children & Youth
Social Skills Training in Children with Autism and Traumatic Brain Injury
Abigail Eschmann, OTS, Amanda Havens, OTS, Julia Guzman OTD, OTR/L, Marlene Morgan, Ed.D, OTR/L
This poster is designed to provide occupational therapists with an overview of evidence based research
and treatment procedures related to joint attention as a strategy to improve social skills in children with
autism and traumatic brain injury.
Poster Presentation
Children & Youth
WE SMILE: Creating a Pediatric Group Therapy Framework
Juliet Haberbusch, MOTR/L, Brittany Grady MS OTR/L, CHES
This poster session describes the WE SMILE pediatric group therapy framework that was created to
provide practitioners with a time-saving, straightforward and client-centered structure to easily plug in
self-regulation, social skill, sensory-motor, and visual motor activities.
Poster Presentation
Children & Youth
Classroom to Clinic: Opportunities for Occupation-Based Practice
Joanne Baird, PhD, OTR/L, Pamela E. Toto, PhD, OTR/L, BCG, FAOTA, Mary Lou Leibold, PhD, OTR/L
This presentation describes a pilot program implemented to increase the use of occupation-based
interventions in SNFs by students during Level II FW. Results including prevalence/type of occupationbased interventions, facilitators and challenges, and learner characteristics will be highlighted.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Education/Field Work
October 23, 2015
Peer Mentorship and Job Satisfaction for Occupational Therapists
Sarah Corcoran, OTD, OTR/L, HCS-O
The daily routine of a home health occupational therapist does not often include interactions with
occupational therapy colleagues. This evidence-based project determined the application of current
evidence on mentoring and job satisfaction for a group of home health occupational therapists.
Poster Presentation
Education/Field Work
Use of a Journal Club for School-based Professional Development
Amanda Corturillo, OTS, Kimberly Szucs, PhD, MS, OTR/L, Jeryl DiSanti Benson, EdD, OTR/L
OT’s at The Children’s Institute participated in a guided journal club that met 6 times. During the journal
club sessions, the OT’s read evidence-based practice (EBP) articles to increase content knowledge and
improve critical appraisal skills.
Poster Presentation
Education/Field Work
Occupational Therapy: OT’s Role in Transition Services in Secondary Education
Hillary Branum-Tamski, OTS, Kylie Hakes, OTS, Aryeh Schwartz, OTS, Hanh Huffman, OTS,
Jane Tolley, OTR/L, Joyce Salls, OTD, OTR/L
There is an underutilization of occupational therapists assisting students with disabilities in their
transition from secondary education (high school) to adult roles, yet the skills and training of
occupational therapists are directly related to the needs of these students.
Poster Presentation
Emerging Practice
Lack of Sleep in the ICU
Ashleigh Buorkan, OTS, Emily Grob, OTS, Ashley LaBella, OTS, Kayla Pelczar, OTS,
Jodi Schreiber, OTD, OTR/L
Lack of sleep is an epidemic in the United States and occurs daily in the intensive care unit. Decreased
improve therapeutic participation and quality of life.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Emerging Practice
October 23, 2015
Home Safety Standardized Assessment Use in Homecare
Sharon Glover, OTR/L
This poster summarizes an evidence-based project to determine if education and training will lead to
increased use of standardized home-safety assessment tools in homecare. The poster addresses themes
identified in the literature and supports and barriers to implementation.
Poster Presentation
General
Maximizing Your Lower Extremity Splinting Program
Jessica Sorge, OTR/L, J.P. Lindsey, MOT, OTR/L
A lower extremity splinting process was redefined through observation, a needs assessment, and a
unique implementation process. Outcomes included: better quality splints for the organization’s need,
department cost savings, increased OT efficiency, incorporation of rehabilitation aides, and increased
interdisciplinary communication.
Poster Presentation
General
Complementary Alternative Medicine for the Treatment of Mental Illness
Leah Groenewal, OTS, Colleen Maher, OTD, OTR/L, CHT
This literature synthesis was designed to research the benefits of different forms of complementary
alternative medicines in conjunction with traditional treatment plans for treating individuals with
mental illness. The research findings also discuss the implications for CAM in OT practice.
Poster Presentation
Mental Health
Community-Based Services and Recidivism of Persons Living With Schizophrenia
Kathleen Courtien, OTS, Claire Murphy, OTS, Courtney Lancia, MS, OTR/L, Marlene Morgan, Ed.D, OTR/L
This poster presents an evidence-based project that explored community-based programs’ effects on
hospital recidivism rates in persons living with schizophrenia.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Mental Health
October 23, 2015
Low Vision Screen in the Sub-Acute Rehabilitation Setting
Rosalyn Itzkowitz, OTS, Dawn Ciccarone, MS, OTR/L, CLVT
This poster describes the need to screen for low vision in a sub-acute rehab setting because it impacts
ADL and IADL performance negatively. Occupational therapists will learn how to administer screening
tools and learn what to do with their findings.
Poster Presentation
Rehab & Disability
How to Establish a Successful Low Vision Program
Dawn Ciccarone, M.S., OTR/L, CLVT
More low vision occupational therapy practitioners are needed to serve people affected by vision loss.
This poster will outline the documentation, billing, professionals, equipment and effective interventions
required to implement a successful occupational therapy low vision program.
Poster Presentation
Productive Aging
Quality of Life in a Supervised Living Arrangement
Jennifer Creagh, BA, OTS, Maria Baldino, BA, OTS, Julia Cantwell, BA, OTS, Jose Ortiz, BS, OTS, Nicole
Pelick, BS, OTS, Christine L. Hischmann, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, Grace S. Fisher, EdD, OTR/L
Researchers examined if participating in a bi-weekly cooking group would result in improved quality of
life of older adults living within a supervised living arrangement. Results indicated increased social
participation and improved feelings of belonging.
Poster Presentation
Productive Aging
The Prevalence and Outcomes of Frailty in SNFs
Kelly Dickson, OTS, Pam Toto, PhD, OTR/L, BCG, FAOTA,
This cross-sectional study examined the incidence of frailty and its relationship to discharge outcomes
among patients admitted to skilled nursing facilities for rehabilitation. Results may assist occupational
therapists in addressing the distinct needs of frail older adults in this setting.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Productive Aging
October 23, 2015
Fall Prevention Programs: Addressing the Fear of Falling
Verna Eschenfelder, PhD, OTR/L, Shauna Frola, OTS, Courtney Williams, OTS
This poster presentation provides an overview of research related to fear of falling, fall risks and clinical
decision-making when designing fall prevention programming.
Poster Presentation
Productive Aging
Cognitive Rehabilitation and Traumatic Brain Injury: Invisible Barrier to Competitive
Employment?
Erin Afshar, OTS, Nicole Fiore, OTS, Marlene J. Morgan, Ed.D, OTR/L
This poster is designed to provide occupational therapists with an overview of evidence based research
and treatment procedures addressing cognitive rehabilitation, traumatic brain injury, and return to
competitive employment.
Poster Presentation
Rehab & Disability
Decreasing Phantom Limb Pain in Upper Extremity Amputees
Megan Bingman, OTS, Stephanie Gordan, OTS, Marlene Morgan, Ed.D, OTR/L
This poster is designed to provide occupational therapists and certified occupational therapy assistants
with an overview of evidence-based research and treatment approaches needed to address phantom
limb pain in persons living with upper extremity amputations.
Poster Presentations
Rehab & Disability
Interaction between Traumatic Brain Injury, Emotional Regulation, and Exercise
Morgan Buckley, OTS, Kristie Farrigan, OTS, Kristen Maisano, OTD, OTR/L, Marlene Morgan, Ed.D, OTR/L
This poster presents the results of an evidence based research project designed to discover whether
men living with traumatic brain injury, who are able to actively participate in an exercise program, find
that exercise has a positive effect on emotional-regulation.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Rehab & Disability
October 23, 2015
Friday Sessions beginning at 10:30 AM
Proven, Practical, Measurable, Embedable: SIZE MATTERS in HANDWRITING!
Beverly Moskowitz, DOT, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Teaching handwriting today requires OTs to work smarter. Meaningful concepts, measurable progress,
and do-able strategies must become embedded in the school day. Learn how to build student
carryover, teacher follow-through, legibility, function and participation with the Size Matters
Handwriting Program.
Presentation (1 hour, 50 minutes)
Children & Youth
Gentle Yoga Practice as a Therapeutic Modality
Nabila Enam, MOT, OTR/L, RYT
This presentation will focus on how yoga can be used to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and
improve concentration in traumatic brain injury population. This presentation will also describe ways to
modify yoga poses to allow individual with TBI to practice safely.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Rehab & Disability
Same Day Joint Replacement Therapy
Marybeth Frank, PT, Shee Henry, BSN, RN, Jeremy Stuck, MPT, Amy Hancock, OT
These home health therapists are part of a specialized team that treat patients discharged home the
same day of a joint replacement. Working within refined protocols to avoid hospitalization, they achieve
better outcomes at a lower cost.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Emerging Practice
Cognitive Assessments in Acute Care: What Happens Next?
Julia Glenn, OTD, OTR/L, C-GCM, Meghan Franz MS, OTR/L
Occupational therapists are being challenged in acute care medical settings to assist in safe discharge
planning while remaining true to occupation and holism. OT’s have the opportunity to utilize cognitive
assessments and comprehensive practice models to assist in discharge planning.
Presentation (1 hour, 50 minutes)
POTA Annual Conference
Rehab & Disability
October 23, 2015
Telehealth: An Innovative Approach for Multiple Sclerosis Self-Management
Gina Ragonese, OTS, Tricia Biel-Goebel, OTS, Julie Scaltrito, OTS, Kayla Stouder OTS, Crystal Lane, OTS,
Sara Green, OTS, Lauren N. Sponseller, OTD, MS, OTR/L, M.Ed
This presentation will discuss the potential use of an interactive telehealth webinar on increasing
knowledge and use of self-management strategies for people newly diagnosed with MS and present a
model for future telehealth delivery associated with primary care.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Emerging Practice
Mobile Health for Monitoring and Self-Management
Andrea Fairman, PhD, OTR/L, CPRP, Meredith Karavolis, OTS, Carly Sullivan, OTS
This presentation provides an overview of the clinical potential of mobile health. The presentation also
includes a description of initial research findings using the iMHere (Interactive Mobile Health and
Rehabilitation) system with persons who have spinal cord injuries (SCI).
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Emerging Practice
Are you ready for ICD-10?
Michelle F. Baun, OTR/L
Do you understand the difference between ICD-9 and ICD-10? Are you ready to use ICD-10 in your
practice? ICD-10 will be more specific then ICD-9 with more clinical information in the classification of
diseases for better healthcare services.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
General
Friday Sessions beginning at 11:30 AM
Conversation with the Commissions
Amy Gerney, OTD, OTR/L, Michelle Marshina, OTD, OTR/L
What topics related to OT Practice and Education are on your mind? This informal discussion session is
an opportunity to share your ideas and interests with POTA’s Education and Practice Commission Chairs
(session available on both Friday and Saturday mornings).
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
POTA Annual Conference
General
October 23, 2015
Assessments of Unilateral Neglect
Alison Bell, MOT, OTR/L
This presentation will review available assessments of neglect with recommendations for practice based
on the psychometric properties and clinical utility. Participants will be given resources for obtaining free
or low cost assessments of unilateral neglect.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Rehab & Disability
Social Groups for Mothers of Children with Disabilities
Adele Breen-Franklin, OTD, JD, OTR/L
Mothers of children with disabilities face risk of emotional stress. "Let's Play" was a social group where
mothers participated in activities in the community. Newly developed assessments and journal entries
indicate that social groups increase occupational satisfaction and wellbeing.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Health & Wellness
News from Home project
Cindy Priester, MS, OTR/L
.
Providing assistive technology in school settings can be a positive educational intervention. Occupational
therapists must be innovative and creative to expand use of these recordable devices in our daily
sessions. The profession advocates using assistive technology to promote, maintain, and improve
function in activities of daily living, work, education, leisure, play, social interaction, and sleep
occupations. Our News from Home program will show you how to expand ideas and see engagement
and progress increase session by session.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Children & Youth
Teambuilding for OT Practitioners & Leaders
Jennifer Lape, OTD, OTR/L, Brian Scaife, OTD, OTR/L
Teambuilding promotes positivity, job satisfaction, decreased job stress and burnout, and improved
client outcomes. This presentation will discuss how formal and informal leaders can employ
teambuilding strategies, and a variety of practical, easy-to-implement strategies and resources will be
shared.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
POTA Annual Conference
General
October 23, 2015
Friday Posters from 2:00 – 3:20 pm
Fostering Peer Support through Occupational Therapy Participation
Lauren Harvey, OTS, Megan Blessinger, OTS, Danielle McDaniel, OTS, Elizabeth Sherman, OTS,
Ingrid Provident, Ed.D, OTR/L
Peer support is an emerging, evidence-based strategy used to improve inclusion in the classroom.
Occupational therapists’ role can include delivering services to educators and support staff to facilitate
peer support interventions between general and special education students.
Poster Presentation
Children & Youth
Benefits of Life Skills Training for Homeless Youth
Kristen Krayer, OTS, Chanel Moore, OTS, Tyler Sell, OTS, Alexa Stouffer, OTS,
Sharon D. Novalis, PhD, OTR/L
Homeless youth are an increasing societal issue in America, with 1.6 million reported annually. This
population should be provided with life skills training guided by an occupational therapist, in order to
facilitate independence through employment and financial stability.
Poster Presentation
Children & Youth
Implications of Screen Use in Young Children's Occupations
Michelle Mathew, OTS, Denise Doria, OTS, Mary Muhlenhaupt, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Not only is it important for occupational therapy practitioners to address the amount of time children
spend engaging in screen media, but research also suggests that the quality of the specific medium can
impact children’s development and occupational participation.
Poster Presentation
Children & Youth
Reducing Stereotypic Behaviors in ASD: Karate vs. Behavioral Interventions
Marlene Morgan, Ed.D., OTR/L, Jillian Himelrick, OTS
This evidence based project compares the use of karate as a motor intervention versus behavioral
interventions (such as cueing, communication training, response interruption and blocking, prompting,
and stimulation) to reduce stereotypy in children presenting with autism spectrum disorder.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Children & Youth
October 23, 2015
Teaching Methodologies of Therapeutic Use of Self
Lindsay Spitznogle, OTS, Elizabeth Medwick, OTS, Jen Dunlay, OTS, Shaw Buerk, OTS,
Sharon D. Novalis, PhD, OTR/L
Therapeutic use of self is a necessary skill in the field of occupational therapy. This poster focuses on the
process of teaching therapeutic use of self, specifically addressing the methods by which students
develop practical aspects of this powerful skill.
Poster Presentation
Education/Field Work
Debriefing: Getting to the Bare Necessities of Learning
Brittany Thompson, BSN, OTS, Caitlyn Bendig, OTS, Megan Fratangelo, OTS, Megan Grove, OTS,
Hilary Rohrabaugh, OTS, Jodi Schreiber, OTD, OTR/L
New methods of active learning are being proposed to enhance entry-level clinical skills. High fidelity
simulation combined with other adult learning strategies, such as peer or instructor led debriefing, were
examined for this poster presentation.
Poster Presentation
Education/Field Work
Interprofessional Academic Experiences that Foster Interprofessional OT Practitioners
Fern L. Silverman, EdD, OTR/L, Lauren Sponseller, OTD, MEd, MS, OTR/L
This poster depicts a multipronged approach to Interprofessional education (IPE), helping prepare OT
students to serve on interdisciplinary teams. Session participants will gain knowledge of the value of IPE
and learn specific methods for incorporating interprofessional experiences into OT curricula.
Poster Presentation
Education/Field Work
Telehealth: An Emerging Area of Practice for OT
Verna Eschenfelder, PhD, OTR/L, Shannon Glanton OTS, Caitlin Kennedy OTS
This poster presents an evidence based research project that explores the currently available research
supporting the effectiveness and outcomes of telehealth interventions for clients with limited access to
traditional occupational therapy services.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Emerging Practice
October 23, 2015
Occupational Therapy: Serving Wounded Warriors
Sara Hyman, OTS, Colleen Maher, OTD, OTR/L, CHT
Occupational therapists use occupations to improve a person’s participation and play an imperative role
in reintegrating returning soldiers. This poster presentation demonstrates the use of occupational
therapy to improve a soldier’s daily functioning in a variety of occupational domains.
Poster Presentation
Emerging Practice
Occupation-Focused Wellness Groups for Marginalized Populations
Elizabeth Bondarenko, OTS, Pamela E. Toto, PhD, OTR/L, BCG, FAOTA
This poster session will describe the program development and outcomes for physical, mental, and
emotional wellness groups implemented to help women temporarily staying in a domestic violence
shelter.
Poster Presentation
Health & Wellness
Military Personnel Recovering from TBI/PTSD and Driver Rehabilitation
Carol Reinson, PhD, OTR/L, Brandon Gorny, OTS, Christopher Ioannucci, OTS, Carol Reinson, PhD, OTR/L
Virtual reality driver rehabilitation offers an effective intervention to improve safe driving behaviors in
military veterans. Veterans who suffer from PTSD or sustained a TBI are most at risk for problematic
driving.
Poster Presentation
Health & Wellness
Non-pharmacological Interventions for Sundowning Behaviors: A MOHO Perspective
Robin Kreiser, OTS, Tamera Keiter Humbert, D.Ed., OTR/L
This study aimed to increase professional knowledge about the use of nonpharmacological interventions
with residents exhibiting sundowning behaviors. A descriptive analysis and thematic categorization of
sundowning descriptors, intervention strategies and approaches, and caregiver burden will be
addressed.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Mental Health
October 23, 2015
Domestic Violence and Positive Mental Health Interventions
Carol Reinson, PhD, OTR/L, Allison Nagy, OTS, Stephanie Mattondo, OTS
The effectiveness of life skills interventions versus creative arts interventions to increase positive mental
health in women who have experienced domestic violence depends on the clinicians abilities to use
both interventions in conjunction with one another.
Poster Presentation
Mental Health
Home Modifications in Support of Aging in Place
Christina Gavalas, OTS, Marlene Morgan, Ed.D, OTR/L
This poster presents the integrated results of two studies designed to examine the profile of adults likely
to implement home modifications, areas of concern that necessitate each modification, specific
modifications made, and areas of occupation that the home modifications impact.
Poster Presentation
Productive Aging
Approaching End of Life: Palliative Occupational Therapy
Claire Khoury, OTS, Cassidy Kemp, OTS, Marlene Morgan, Ed. D, OTR/L
This evidence-based research poster reports the results of a review of the literature concerning the
indicators that a person may be approaching the end of his or her life and therefore might benefit from
palliative care.
Poster Presentation
Productive Aging
Enabling Individuals with Dementia Through Every STOMP
Diana Miller, OTS, Colleen Maher, OTD, OTR/L, CHT
This literature synthesis determined that skill-building through task-oriented motor practice (STOMP) is
an effective form of intervention for increasing performance for individuals with dementia as well as an
effective means for reducing caregiver burden.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Productive Aging
October 23, 2015
Understanding Functional Visual Performance
Julie Ann Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, FAOTA, Paula Annunziato, OTS, Alex Contino, OTS,
Elisa Grave, OTS, Brooke Eife, OTS, Michele Priolo, OTS, Marissa Rojas, OTS, Amanda Zaloga, OTS
This study explored the role of visual acuity and contrast sensitivity on the occupational performance of
individuals with visual impairment. Findings of the study will assist occupational therapists in
developing better intervention plans for individuals with visual impairment.
Poster Presentation
Productive Aging
Optimal Bathroom Grab Bar Placement for Older Adults
Kimberly Paulsen, OTS, Kaitlyn Meier, OTS, Marlene Morgan, Ed.D, OTR/L
This evidence based project investigated if current Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility
Guidelines (ADAAG) for grab bar configurations around the toilet in the bathroom adequately meet the
needs of older adults.
Poster Presentation
Productive Aging
Evolution of Motor Control Approaches Addressing Neurological Dysfunction
Verna Eschenfelder, PhD, OTR/L, Katherine Phelan, OTS, Courtney Ruch, OTS
This poster presents an evidence based research project that explores the evolution of motor control
theory from traditional to contemporary practice approaches. The presentation is designed to support
practitioners' decision-making process while designing interventions for clients with neurological
dysfunction.
Poster Presentation
Rehab & Disability
Breast Cancer and Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Verna Eschenfelder, PhD, OTR/L, Emily DiMartino, OTS, Claire Buckley, OTS
This evidenced-based research project utilized a PICO format and systematic search strategy to examine
current research addressing the efficacy of MLD as a method of lymphedema reduction for clients with
breast cancer.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Rehab & Disability
October 23, 2015
Incorporating Sensory Feedback into Upper Extremity Myoelectric Prosthetics
Verna Eschenfelder, PhD, OTR/L, Brynn Baumann, OTS, Natalie Gower, OTS
This poster presents result of an evidence-based research project that explored the sensory feedback
systems (SFS) in myoelectric prostheses (MEP) for clients with upper extremity amputations. Future
research that addresses occupation-based outcomes for clients using MEP with SFS is indicated.
Poster Presentation
Rehab & Disability
Living with ALS: The impact of Assistive Technology
Verna Eschenfelder, PhD, OTR5/L, Donna Opeikun, OTS, Paula Lada OTS, Jessica Ferla OTS
This poster is designed to provide occupational therapists with an overview of the evidence supporting
the use of assistive technology to increase independence with ADLs and communication to improve QOL
in clients with ALS and their caregivers.
Poster Presentation
Rehab & Disability
Motion Capture Analysis in Occupational Therapy
Christine Gustafson, MS, OTR/L, CLT
Motion capture analysis programs are technologies that can be utilized in rehabilitation to evaluate and
assess treatment outcomes. Programs such as Dartfish, Moteck, and Qualisys will be discussed in the
presentation as well as their applicability to occupational therapy practice
Poster Presentation
Rehab & Disability
Integrating Occupational Therapy into a Community Mental Health Setting: Doctoral
Students' Perspectives
Daniel Fichter, DrOT, OTR/L, Annie Chia, OTS, Carolyn Edwards, OTS, Amanda Scull, OTS, Palak Sutaria,
OTS, Max Zilberman, OTS, Supriya Sen, OTD, MS, OTR/L
This poster will describe the unique fieldwork experience six doctoral students from the University of
the Sciences had at an outpatient geriatric psychiatric clinic. It will also describe two innovative
programs the students created for this specific fieldwork site.
Poster Presentation
POTA Annual Conference
Mental Health
October 23, 2015
Friday Sessions Beginning at 2:00 PM
POTA Legislative Update: The Year in Review and Next Steps
Cathy Dolhi, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Kerri Golden, EdD, OTR/L, Mary Muhlenhaupt, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA
This presentation highlights the legislative activities impacting occupational therapy and occupational
therapy practitioners in Pennsylvania over the past year and provides insight into POTA’s initiatives
related to these activities. Participants learn how they can advocate for occupational therapy on a dayto-day basis in their practice settings, along with strategies they can use to promote the distinct value of
occupational therapy to legislators and other key stakeholders.
The "Colorful" World of Occupational Therapy
April Waligorski, OTR/L
Occupational therapy thrives on the creativity of the therapist, as well as our clients. This session
provides insight in the use of coloring across all populations and all disabilities to maximize human
interaction and functional outcomes.
Presentation (1 hour 50 minutes)
General
An OT's Guide to Patient Reported Outcomes
Ann Marie Potter, MA, OTR/L
Patient Reported Outcomes and the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System
(PROMIS®) can be utilized by occupational therapists to improve patient treatment, communication and
health outcomes.
Presentation (1 hour 50 minutes)
General
Release Training of Functional Hand Splint to Integrate Hemiplegic Hand
Joseph Padova, OTR/L, Diane Pauloski-Hunt, OT, CHT
Inability to open the hand after a stroke is a primary limitation to function. This workshop describes the
rational, and development of a dynamic low-profile digit extension splint (RELEAS). Participants will
learn fit and train individuals to use the RELEAS.
Institute (2 hours, 50 minutes)
POTA Annual Conference
Rehab & Disability
October 23, 2015
Using Bluetooth Technology with the Tetraplegic Population
Lori Eckert, MS, OTR/L, Amanda Gordon, MS, OTR/L
Independent use of electronics is an important goal for patients with tetraplegia. Bluetooth technology
can help individuals achieve this goal. This presentation will describe use of the Teclashield, a Bluetooth
interface that promotes use of everyday electronics with single switches.
Presentation (1 hour 50 minutes)
Rehab & Disability
Support Groups for Caregivers: Voices from Ecuador
Joyce Salls, OTD, OTR/L
This session will present the results of a qualitative study exploring the lived experiences of families of
children with disabilities in Ecuador and their perspectives on participating in a support group led by an
occupational therapist.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Research
Program Development for a Youth Intervention Center
Jessica Krueger, OTS, Jessie Krueger,OTS , Emily Martin, OTS, Lauren Neiswender, OTS,
Bethany Panchak, OTS, Judy Ericksen, PhD, OTR/L
A wellness program for females residing in a youth intervention center was identified as a need through
a campus-community partnership. A collegiate interdisciplinary team developed a female specific
wellness program.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Health & Wellness
Culturally Competent Occupational Therapy
Supriya Sen, OTD, MS, OTR/, Pooja Patel, OTS, Danielle Miller, OTS, Amanda De Angelo OTS,
Dominique Sulit , OTS3
Understanding and integrating cultural competency into everyday practice, and education of students
can influence not just the quality of services provided by practitioners, but also the client’s perceptions
of healthcare received.
Institute (2 hour 50 minutes)
POTA Annual Conference
General
October 23, 2015
Friday Sessions Beginning at 3:00 PM
Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Kawa: Effect on Client Care
Jennifer Lape, OTD, OTR/L, Cheri Iodi, OTS, Ashley Lukose, OTS, Diana Mitchell, OTS, Jen Yoneda, OTS
Interprofessional collaboration can increase quality of care, and the Kawa model may serve as an
effective collaborative tool. This presentation will review a project that employed the Kawa and provide
education on how attendees can implement the model in practice.
Presentation (1 hour 50 minutes)
General
Student Perceptions: Simulation Experiences after Level II Fieldwork
Audrey Zapletal, MS, OTR/L, E. Adel Herge, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Tracey Vause-Earland, MS, OTR/L
This presentation will describe the types of standardized patient encounters that can be embedded into
an OT curriculum and demonstrate data reflecting how students perceive these high fidelity simulation
experiences to prepare them for Level II Fieldwork.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Education/Field Work
Friday Sessions from 4:00 – 4:50 PM
Exploring Play in Children with Special Needs through Photovoice
Rochelle Mendonca, PhD, OTR/L, Christina Fuji, OTR, Andrew Bettlach, OTS, Julian Parks, OTS
This presentation explores Photovoice as a methodology to give children with mild cognitive disabilities
a process to describe what is meaningful to them, and to allow occupational therapists to gain a greater
understanding of their play occupations/environment.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Children & Youth
Validation of the Standardized Touchscreen Assessment of Cognition
Andrea Fairman, PhD, OTR/L, CPRP, An Olexovich, OTS
This presentation will provide an overview of the Standardized Touchscreen Assessment of Cognition as
well as to share research about validating the STAC against the Cognitive Assessment of Minnesota
(CAM) and the Cognitive Linguistic Quick Test (CLQT).
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
POTA Annual Conference
Research
October 23, 2015
Student Learning 2.0: Integrating New Technologies into the Classroom
Caitlyn Foy, MOTR/L
This session provides information about and experience with new technologies in the classroom, such as
blogs, wikis, Twitter, Facebook, and live polling. Teaching with technology promotes student learning
and engagement, and improves student-learning outcomes.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Education/Field Work
Upper Limb Amputations: Prosthetic and Rehabilitation Solutions
Christopher Bollinger, MOT, OTR/L, H. Janice Hsu, MSOT, OTR/L , Kerstin Baun, MPH, OTR/L,
Ryan Spill, CP
A collaborative team approach is critical for patients who have suffered an upper limb amputation.
Occupational therapists work alongside upper limb prosthetic specialists to restore lost hand function
with advanced prosthetic technology to assist patients in achieving their goals.
Short Presentation (50 minutes)
Rehab & Disability
OT in Criminal Justice: Past, Present, and Future
Audra Sitterly, OTS, Emily Moreton, OTS, Jaime Muñoz, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Share results of the most comprehensive survey to date of occupational therapy educators, researchers
and practitioners in U.S. criminal justice settings.
Short Presentation (50 minute)
POTA Annual Conference
Emerging Practice
October 23, 2015