The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the perceptions of three occupational therapists and three parents regarding occupational therapy services provided in the neonatal intensive care unit. Data were obtained through participant interviews. Role of the occupational therapist, parent training, and time spent with parents were themes that emerged from the therapist interviews. Themes from the parent interviews included occupational therapy intervention and treatment, time spent with occupational therapist, and perceptions. Implications for occupational therapy practice in the neonatal intensive care unit are discussed.
Few studies exist examining play as the desired outcome of the intervention.
In these studies, the researchers hypothesize that improving motor skills will improve play skills in children. This study examined the playfulness of four children who received OT intervention specifically designed to improve play behaviors in comparison to four children who did not receive this intervention. The results provide therapists with information and insight for treating children with play deficits. This information will help therapists design effective treatment to increase playfulness in children. Involvement by the members in their professional organization is a recurrent theme.