Gina M. Garriss MS, OTR/L CBIS; Helen Houston MS, OTR/L
Physical Rehabilitation & Chronic Conditions | Audience Level: Intermediate
This presentation will describe the development and implementation of a visual assessment protocol designed for OT practitioners working with neuro patients in acute care. The project addressed a practice gap identified through a departmental needs assessment. Attendees will learn how an evidence-based protocol, staff education, documentation templates, and quick-reference tools were developed and integrated into a busy acute care environment. Participants will have the opportunity to perform visual screenings and explore interventions. Attendees will learn how these visual impairments can affect functional tasks such as driving. This presentation provides a practical model to improve identification of visual impairments and support OT practitioner’s role in discharge planning including referrals to optimize vision and a comprehensive OT driver evaluation to determine fitness to drive.