Delirium, an acute and sudden change in mental status, occurs in up to 80% of ICU patients and has devastating consequences like functional decline and increased length of stay. Disorders of Consciousness (DoC) are also encountered in the ICU setting, resulting from commonly seen medical issues like cardiac arrest, encephalopathy, sepsis, and COVID-19. Occupational Therapists working in the ICU setting are uniquely qualified to assess and treat these complex patient populations. The use of holistic, client-centered care, combined with knowledge of assessment tools, positions the Occupational Therapist to detect even subtle cognitive changes that may otherwise go undetected. 

Good patient outcomes require early intervention. Current literature supports the early introduction of Occupational Therapy for critically ill patients, demonstrating safety and feasibility in all ICU environments, and contributing to improved functional recovery and increased quality of life. In this seminar, there will be an in-depth look at the current and emerging roles of the Occupational Therapist with Delirium and DoC. Therapists will be provided with useful clinical knowledge to prevent, assess, and treat these patients. There will be a review of current literature, assessment tools for use at bedside, and evidence-based interventions. Case studies will be used to enhance concepts and deepen clinical knowledge. The level of this course is intermediate.

*This course is an extension of Occupational Therapy in the ICU: Essential Skills for Clinical Practice.