Presenter: Dr. Priya Parekh, OTD, OTR/L, CEAS earned her bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy from Seth G. S. Medical College and KEM Hospital (MUHS) and her master's degree and doctorate from the University of Southern California. During her doctoral residency at the USC Occupational Therapy Faculty Practice, she developed and implemented lifestyle interventions to support individuals with mental health conditions, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and chronic pain. In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Parekh has extensive experience in ergonomics, helping organizations create safer, healthier, and more efficient workplaces.
Course Contact Hours: 2 CH/0.2 CEU*
*Although continuing education credit may be offered for this activity, requirements for acceptance and applicability vary by profession and state. Participants are responsible for confirming eligibility and acceptance with their applicable licensing board or credentialing authority.
Target Audience: Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants
Course Completion Certificate: Must pass course post-test by 80% within 30 days of enrollment to receive its completion certificate within 30 days
Course Description:
Ergonomics is the science of fitting a job to the person performing it. Research has demonstrated the significant impact of ergonomics on health, well-being, safety, and workplace productivity. In this course, participants will gain an understanding of the unique role of occupational therapists in the field of ergonomics and learn practical strategies for assessing and improving work environments. Participants will explore techniques that can help enhance employee productivity, reduce the risk of work-related injuries, and promote overall health and well-being. The course will also provide guidance on creating an ergonomic and productive workspace at home.
Course Objectives
Upon the completion of this course, participants will be able to:
1. Identify common health problems associated with poor ergonomics and its impact in the work force.
2. Understand the role and the importance of occupational therapy in the field of ergonomics.
3. Develop and evaluate ergonomic strategies to improve health and well-being at the workplace.
4. Apply techniques as it relates to ergonomics appropriately to a variety of workforce environments.
- Teacher: Site Owner
- Teacher: Dr. Janice Pitts
Part of a Certificate Series (Course 1 of 8): This course may be taken independently for continuing education credit or as the first course in a series leading to the Certificate in Acute Care Occupational Therapy.
Contact Hours: 1.5 CH/0.15 CEU*
*Although continuing education credit may be offered for this activity, requirements for acceptance and applicability vary by profession and state. Participants are responsible for confirming eligibility and acceptance with their applicable licensing board or credentialing authority.
Target Audience: Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants only
Course Completion Certificate: Must pass course post-test by 80% within 30 days of enrollment to receive its completion certificate within 30 days
Recommended Readings:
1. Smith-Gabai, H., & Holm, S. E. (2024). Occupational therapy in acute care. Edition: 3rd AOTA Press. ISBN13: 9781569006207 ISBN10: 1569006202
Course Description
This module provides an overview of occupational therapy practice in acute care hospital settings. Participants will examine the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF–4) and its application to medically complex patients. Emphasis is placed on the role of OT in early intervention, patient safety, ethical practice, and inter-professional collaboration during acute hospitalization.
Course Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, participants will be able to:
- Describe the role and scope of occupational therapy in acute care settings using OTPF–4 terminology.
- Identify key components of the OTPF–4 Domain and Process relevant to acute care practice.
- Explain ethical, legal, and safety considerations impacting OT services in hospitals.
- Recognize the importance of early occupational engagement in medically complex patients.
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework - 4 (OTPF–4) Alignment:
- Occupations: ADLs, health management
- Contexts: Physical, social, personal
- Non-editing teacher: Dr. Joahnes Gatdula
Part of a Certificate Series (Course 2 of 8): This course may be taken independently for continuing education credit or as the first course in a series leading to the Certificate in Acute Care Occupational Therapy.
Contact Hours: 1.5 CH/0.15 CEU*
*Although continuing education credit may be offered for this activity, requirements for acceptance and applicability vary by profession and state. Participants are responsible for confirming eligibility and acceptance with their applicable licensing board or credentialing authority.
Target Audience: Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants only
Course Completion Certificate: Must pass cours post-test by 80% within 30 days of enrollment to receive its completion certificate within 30 days
Recommended Readings:
1. Smith-Gabai, H., & Holm, S. E. (2024). Occupational therapy in acute care. Edition: 3rd AOTA Press. ISBN13: 9781569006207 ISBN10: 1569006202
Course Description
This module focuses on evaluation processes and clinical reasoning skills required for occupational therapy practice in acute care. Participants will learn to interpret medical records, laboratory values, and precautions while conducting rapid, function-based assessments. The module emphasizes goal development and clinical decision-making aligned with OTPF–4.
Course Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, participants will be able to:
- Interpret medical charts, vital signs, and laboratory values relevant to OT intervention.
- Differentiate between appropriate and contraindicated OT evaluations in acute care.
- Select functional assessment tools appropriate for medically fragile patients.
- Formulate occupation-based goals aligned with OTPF–4 language.
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework - 4 (OTPF–4) Alignment:
- Client factors: Cardiopulmonary, integumentary, cognitive
- Performance skills: Motor, process
- Non-editing teacher: Dr. Joahnes Gatdula
Part of a Certificate Series (Course 3 of 8): This course may be taken independently for continuing education credit or as the first course in a series leading to the Certificate in Acute Care Occupational Therapy.
Contact Hours: 1.5 CH/0.15 CEU*
*Although continuing education credit may be offered for this activity, requirements for acceptance and applicability vary by profession and state. Participants are responsible for confirming eligibility and acceptance with their applicable licensing board or credentialing authority.
Target Audience: Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants only
Course Completion Certificate: Must pass course post-test by 80% within 30 days of enrollment to receive its completion certificate within 30 days
Recommended Readings:
Bolick, B. N., Reuter-Rice, K., Severin, P. N., & Madden, M. A. (2020). Pediatric acute care: A Guide to Interprofessional Practice. Elsevier. ISBN10: 0323673325 ISBN13: 978-0323673327
Braveman, B. (2022). Leading & managing occupational therapy services: An Evidence-Based Approach. Edition: 3rd ISBN10: 1719640351 ISBN13: 978-1719640350
Course Description
This module explores evidence-based, occupation-centered interventions used in acute care settings. Participants will examine strategies for early mobilization, ADL retraining, positioning, splinting, and patient education. The module highlights the role of OT in preventing complications and promoting functional recovery during hospitalization.
Course Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, participants will be able to:
- Implement safe, occupation-based interventions for patients in acute care settings.
- Demonstrate strategies for positioning, splinting, and edema management.
- Apply energy conservation and activity tolerance principles during ADL training.
- Educate patients and caregivers on safety and functional participation during hospitalization.
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework - 4 (OTPF–4) Alignment:
- Interventions: Therapeutic use of occupations, education
- Outcomes: Prevention, participation
- Instructor: Dr. Joahnes Gatdula
Part of a Certificate Series (Course 4 of 8): This course may be taken independently for continuing education credit or as the first course in a series leading to the Certificate in Acute Care Occupational Therapy.
Contact Hours: 1.5 CH/0.15 CEU*
*Although continuing education credit may be offered for this activity, requirements for acceptance and applicability vary by profession and state. Participants are responsible for confirming eligibility and acceptance with their applicable licensing board or credentialing authority.
Target Audience: Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants only
Course Completion Certificate: Must pass course post-test by 80% within 30 days of enrollment to receive its completion certificate within 30 days
Recommended Readings:
Bolick, B. N., Reuter-Rice, K., Severin, P. N., & Madden, M. A. (2020). Pediatric acute care: A Guide to Interprofessional Practice. Elsevier. ISBN10: 0323673325 ISBN13: 978-0323673327
Braveman, B. (2022). Leading & managing occupational therapy services: An Evidence-Based Approach. Edition: 3rd ISBN10: 1719640351 ISBN13: 978-1719640350
Course Description
This module examines the emerging role of occupational therapy in Emergency Department settings. Participants will explore ER workflows, rapid functional screening, safety and fall prevention, delirium management, and discharge planning from the ER. Emphasis is placed on collaboration, crisis-informed care, and efficient documentation to support patient outcomes.
Course Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, participants will be able to:
- Describe the role of occupational therapy within the Emergency Department workflow.
- Conduct rapid functional screenings to inform discharge and referral decisions.
- Identify risks related to falls, delirium, and cognitive impairment in the ER.
- Apply OT interventions to support safety, crisis management, and patient-centered care in emergency settings.
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework - 4 (OTPF–4) Alignment:
- Contexts: Highly dynamic physical and social environments
- Health Management: Safety, risk prevention, crisis response
- Performance Skills: Process and social interaction skills
- Instructor: Dr. Joahnes Gatdula
Part of a Certificate Series (Course 5 of 8): This course may be taken independently for continuing education credit or as the first course in a series leading to the Certificate in Acute Care Occupational Therapy.
Contact Hours: 1.5 CH/0.15 CEU*
*Although continuing education credit may be offered for this activity, requirements for acceptance and applicability vary by profession and state. Participants are responsible for confirming eligibility and acceptance with their applicable licensing board or credentialing authority.
Target Audience: Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants only
Course Completion Certificate: Must pass course post-test by 80% within 30 days of enrollment to receive its completion certificate within 30 days
Recommended Readings:
Bolick, B. N., Reuter-Rice, K., Severin, P. N., & Madden, M. A. (2020). Pediatric acute care: A Guide to Interprofessional Practice. Elsevier. ISBN10: 0323673325 ISBN13: 978-0323673327
Braveman, B. (2022). Leading & managing occupational therapy services: An Evidence-Based Approach. Edition: 3rd ISBN10: 1719640351 ISBN13: 978-1719640350
Course Description
This module provides specialized instruction in occupational therapy management of burn patients across emergency, acute, and critical care settings. Participants will review burn classifications, acute medical management, and OT interventions including positioning, splinting, edema control, and psychosocial support. Trauma-informed and culturally responsive care are emphasized throughout the recovery continuum.
Course Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, participants will be able to:
- Differentiate burn classifications by depth and total body surface area (TBSA).
- Apply OT principles for early burn management, including positioning and splinting.
- Implement interventions to prevent contractures and functional decline.
- Address psychosocial and trauma-related needs of burn patients using a client-centered approach.
- Integrate OTPF–4 concepts when planning interventions across OR, ICU, and inpatient settings.
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework - 4 (OTPF–4) Alignment:
- Client factors: Skin functions, emotional regulation
- Performance patterns: Disrupted routines and roles
- Occupations: ADLs, rest/sleep, social participation
- Non-editing teacher: Dr. Joahnes Gatdula
Part of a Certificate Series (Course 6 of 8): This course may be taken independently for continuing education credit or as the first course in a series leading to the Certificate in Acute Care Occupational Therapy.
Contact Hours: 1.5 CH/0.15 CEU*
*Although continuing education credit may be offered for this activity, requirements for acceptance and applicability vary by profession and state. Participants are responsible for confirming eligibility and acceptance with their applicable licensing board or credentialing authority.
Target Audience: Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants only
Course Completion Certificate: Must pass course post-test by 80% within 30 days of enrollment to receive its completion certificate within 30 days
Recommended Readings:
1. Kornblit-Kennell, B., & Howard, B. (2023). Everyday Ethics &Occupational Therapy course. AOTA Press.
2. Smith-Gabai, H., & Holm, S. E. (2024). Occupational therapy in acute care. Edition: 3rd AOTA Press. ISBN13: 9781569006207 ISBN10: 1569006202
Course Description
This module addresses the role of occupational therapy in discharge planning and care transitions from acute and emergency settings. Participants will examine ethical considerations, outcome measurement, inter-professional collaboration, and advocacy related to patient safety and occupational justice. Strategies for ensuring continuity of care and long-term functional success are emphasized.
Course Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, participants will be able to:
- Develop safe and effective discharge plans from ER and inpatient settings.
- Collaborate with interprofessional teams to support care transitions.
- Evaluate patient outcomes using occupation-based and functional measures.
- Advocate for ethical and equitable care aligned with occupational justice principles.
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework - 4 (OTPF–4) Alignment:
- Outcomes: Quality of life, role competence, occupational justice
- Process: Re-evaluation and transitions
- Non-editing teacher: Dr. Joahnes Gatdula
Part of a Certificate Series (Course 7 of 8): This course may be taken independently for continuing education credit or as the first course in a series leading to the Certificate in Acute Care Occupational Therapy.
Contact Hours: 1.5 CH/0.15 CEU
*Although continuing education credit may be offered for this activity, requirements for acceptance and applicability vary by profession and state. Participants are responsible for confirming eligibility and acceptance with their applicable licensing board or credentialing authority.
Target Audience: Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants only
Course Completion Certificate: Must pass course post-test by 80% within 30 days of enrollment to receive its completion certificate within 30 days
Recommended Readings:
Braveman, B. (2022). Leading & managing occupational therapy services: An Evidence-Based Approach. Edition: 3rd ISBN10: 1719640351 ISBN13: 978-1719640350
Course Description
This module focuses on leadership development for occupational therapists practicing in acute care environments. Participants will explore formal and informal leadership roles, communication strategies, supervision, ethical decision-making, and quality improvement initiatives. The module highlights how OT leaders influence patient outcomes, team effectiveness, and system-level change.
Course Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, participants will be able to:
- Describe leadership roles and responsibilities of occupational therapists in acute care settings.
- Differentiate between formal and informal leadership within interprofessional hospital teams.
- Apply leadership strategies to support clinical excellence, patient safety, and staff development.
- Demonstrate effective communication and advocacy skills within fast-paced acute care environments.
- Integrate OTPF–4 principles to guide ethical decision-making and promote occupational justice at the systems level.
- Identify opportunities for quality improvement, program development, and evidence-based practice in acute care.
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework - 4 (OTPF–4) Alignment:
- Contexts: Institutional and social systems
- Interventions: Advocacy, education, collaboration
- Outcomes: Quality of life, health maintenance, prevention, occupational justice
- Non-editing teacher: Dr. Joahnes Gatdula
Part of a Certificate Series (Course 8 of 8): This course may be taken independently for continuing education credit or as the first course in a series leading to the Certificate in Acute Care Occupational Therapy.
Contact Hours: 1.5 CH/0.15 CEU
*Although continuing education credit may be offered for this activity, requirements for acceptance and applicability vary by profession and state. Participants are responsible for confirming eligibility and acceptance with their applicable licensing board or credentialing authority.
Target Audience: Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants only
Course Completion Certificate: Must pass course post-test by 80% within 30 days of enrollment to receive its completion certificate within 30 days
Recommended Readings:
Bolick, B. N., Reuter-Rice, K., Severin, P. N., & Madden, M. A. (2020). Pediatric acute care: A Guide to Interprofessional Practice. Elsevier. ISBN10: 0323673325 ISBN13: 978-0323673327
Course Description
This module examines occupational therapy practice in pediatric acute care settings, including the ER, ICU, and inpatient units. Participants will explore developmental, sensory, psychosocial, and family-centered considerations that impact occupational performance during hospitalization. Emphasis is placed on play-based intervention, caregiver education, and discharge planning to support pediatric participation and recovery.
Course Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, participants will be able to:
- Describe the role and scope of occupational therapy in pediatric acute care settings.
- Apply OTPF–4 principles to evaluation and intervention with medically complex pediatric patients.
- Identify developmental considerations that influence occupational performance during hospitalization.
- Implement family-centered, occupation-based interventions in pediatric acute care.
- Address psychosocial, sensory, and emotional needs of children experiencing acute illness or trauma.
- Collaborate with caregivers and interprofessional teams to support safe transitions of care.
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework - 4 (OTPF–4) Alignment:
- Occupations: Play, ADLs, rest/sleep, education, social participation
- Contexts: Physical, social, cultural, and temporal
- Client Factors: Neuromusculoskeletal, sensory, emotional regulation
- Interventions: Therapeutic use of occupations, education, advocacy
- Outcomes: Participation, prevention, health maintenance, quality of life
- Non-editing teacher: Dr. Joahnes Gatdula
