Capstone Project

Catalog description

Students complete a Capstone Project reflecting the synthesis and application of evidence-based practice and occupational therapy principles learned within the RMUoHP Post-Professional OTD curriculum. The Capstone Project demonstrates achievement of GPD-approved*, student-generated learning outcomes and a product of practice/clinical scholarship that informs occupational therapy practice. The quality of the Capstone Project shall meet high standards for professional presentation and illustrate application of best available evidence and integration of curricular content. The course requires students to engage with peers online for constructive feedback and accountability. Students submit and present a summation of the Capstone Project in the form of a “virtual” professional poster according to parameters outlined during class to peers and instructor by end of course. Students conclude course with final reflections upon the learning process. (prereq: OTD 710,OT 712,OTD 714,OTD 732,HS 720) P P 510 Pediatric Pharmacology & Imaging (1 credit) In this course, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of commonly prescribed medications and over -the-counter drugs are addressed for children receiving physical therapy. Potential drug complications of adverse effects and interactions are reviewed. An overview of brain and musculoskeletal imaging procedures occurs with emphasis on the neonatal brain and common musculoskeletal pathology in children. Students present pediatric cases and describe imaging and pharmacological components. P 528 Pediatric Science Capstone Seminar (1 credit) In this seminar course, students have the opportunity to develop and present proposed pediatric science capstone topics, purpose and scope, feasibility issues, literature support, and potential obstacles. A method for determining effectiveness of each capstone project will be presented and discussed. A formal presentation with slides and facilitated discussion with peers will occur. Students will provide formal introductions of speakers. Written peer and instructor feedback are provided to enhance future pr esentation skills and leadership. P 529.2 Pediatric Science Capstone (4 credits) The pediatric science capstone involves an individualized experience to expand knowledge, competency, and teaching in pediatrics. The project topic and design are negotiated with the faculty member and can be achieved in a variety of settings (clinical, education, administration). The capstone project may focus on 1) developing and evaluating a new clinical program, 2) designing and presenting a series of teaching modules, 3) writing and evaluating practice guidelines or policy and procedure manual for a ne w practice setting, 4) preparing a journal article for publication, 5) expanding the semester 2 directed independent study project from a single case into a case series analysis, or 6) other individualized pediatrics-related options A soft-bound technical report of the project is submitted in addition to an electronic version. All capstone project methods and results are presented verbally to colleagues and other related professionals in practice settings where the project was conducted. P 544 Pediatric Differential Diagnosis & Medical Screening for (2 credits) Practitioner Referral This course is designed to enhance the skill level of physical therapists working with children in conducting selected portions of an examination. This examination process includes taking a history for the pediatric client, reviewing systems beyond the sys tem(s) typically of concern to therapists, addressing health promotion with children and families, and recognizing signs and symptoms that indicate the need for a referral to another health practitioner. The student is expected to bring knowledge of tests and measures and examination procedures unique to pediatric physical therapy. P 637 Neonatal Case Report and Case Series Methods (1 credit) This course involves an introduction to case report and case series methodologies for application to the Neonatology Fellowship Project. The course emphasizes identification and review of neonatal case report literature on topics similar to the selected neonatology fellowship project. The background and methods of the neonatal case report or fellowship project will be completed and Institutional Review Board application requirements will be addressed. P 647 Neonatal Capstone: Directed Independent Study (1 credit) This independent study involves the final design and development of the Neonatology Fellowship Capstone project. This process may involve analyzing a neonatal case series, writing a neonatal case report abstract, and designing a scientific poster. Other c apstone project options may be focused on creating survey research on neonatology-related topics or developing clinical process maps and guidelines for a specialized neonatal population. This project occurs in the last phase of the Neonatology Fellowship. The ca se series or fellowship project is presented by power point lecture to the fellowship mentor team. An abstract for submission to a national conference and poster layout of the case description and analysis will be submitted using a template provided by Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions with inclusion of the logo from the Neonatology Fellowship clinical site. P 702 Leadership In Pediatric Physical Therapy (3 credits) Models and perspectives are analyzed for administrating, leading, and consulting in pediatric therapy settings with strategies included for managing challenging work dynamics. Self-reflection is conducted on personal leadership style and approaches within the combined framework of Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence model and Hagberg ’s Real Power model. Cultural Intelligence models are analyzed across a range of intercultural, inclusion, and ethical contexts involving children, families, and professional team members. A strategic planning format for future consultation opportunities is examined, and students present future consultation projects for analysis and discussion. P 703 Seminar on Children & Youth in Early Interventions & (2 credits) Education Environments This course includes discussion and application of laws, practice guidelines, and service delivery models for early intervention and school -based practice settings. Development and use of individualized family service plans and individualized education pro grams are addressed. Clinical decision-making frameworks are used with peer-reviewed literature to analyze and support selected interventions through case-based presentations. P 704 Pediatric Pathological & Genetic Conditions: (3 credits) Analysis & Interventions Overview and evidence - based practice analyses are presented on etiology, pathophysiology, clinical course, and key pediatric therapy management issues. Family dynamics and stressors are addressed in the context of trauma -informed care and grief processes. P 707.4 Topics in Oral-motor & Feeding Impairments in Infants with (2 credits) Medical Fragility Examination and management of feeding and swallowing disorders in infants and children with respiratory, neuromuscular or structural deficits are reviewed with discussion of related evidence. A range of interventions is explored including transitions to oral feeding from supplemental feeding lines. Cases are analyzed according to available evidence, multiple body system considerations, and clinical decision-making perspectives. P 736 National Board Examination Processes and Preparation: (2 credits) Pediatric Specialty Certification and National Physical Therapy Licensure This elective course is focused on application, preparation, resources, and perceived challenges to national and specialty board examinations for pediatric physical therapists and international physical therapists. Analysis and review of key areas of the b oard examinations are prioritized. Focused self-assessment of study priorities guides individual study plans and group presentations. Strategies are highlighted for test anxiety, time management, and resource acquisition. This course provides opportunity and support for pediatric clinical specialists and international pediatric clinicians to prepare for national board examinations at the end of focused study in the post - professional Doctor of Physical Therapy program. P 740 Lifespan Participation from Infancy to Adulthood (3 credits) Complex integration of mobility, sensory processing, & communication are analyzed in children to age 21 years. Using the cerebral palsy model, these three major processes are explored in the context of promoting or limiting participation in daily life. Case analyses and research evidence are used to examine effects and interaction of the following factors: pathomechanics, developmental kinesiology, sensory processing, respiration – communication, fatigue, pain, and resiliency. P 755 Pediatric Research Independent Study (3 credits) A directed independent study option is offered to support a focused component in pediatric studies or pediatric research process not directly addressed in other courses. The focus, objectives, and activities are individually designed between the student an d pediatric science concentration area director. The independent study option is offered during two online semesters but can be taken only once.