Abstract
Purpose: Across all developed countries, the US has the highest maternal mortality rate. The acute postpartum period is considered the first 6 weeks after birth and is often the most prevalent time medical complications arise. Currently there is a trend of OT and PT referral after these complications have already happened negatively impacted patients. To bring awareness and relevance to acute postpartum OT and PT, birthing professionals need more education to gain knowledge on how therapy can produce successful recovery outcomes in their patients. The research question "How does online educational programming increase birthing professionals’ knowledge about the benefits of acute postpartum OT/PT referrals?" will be investigated through educational programming.
Design: Mixed methods design of birthing professionals affiliated with Women and Infants Hospital who participate in asynchronous educational programming.
Methods: Non-standardized pre/post and satisfaction Qualtrics questionnaires to measure the outcome of educational programming efficiency and data analysis of results.
Potential Results/Limitations: Results could demonstrate an improved understanding of acute postpartum OT and PT and a high satisfaction rate of educational programming. Limitations could include a small sample size and bias about OT/PT acute postpartum rehab.
Impact Statement: Postpartum women experience many barriers that impact their lives due to complications that arise within the acute postpartum period. OT and PT have a scope of practice that can make a positive impact on recovery time and readmission rates. Education given to birthing professionals about the benefits of acute postpartum OT/PT will bring awareness to and increase knowledge about this emerging practice area.
Faculty Mentor
Kathryn Burke OTD, OTR/L
Graduation Date
5-2-2026
Document Type
Poster
Recommended Citation
Monteiro, Jayde and Burke, Kathryn OTD, OTR/L, "Educating Birthing Professionals About the Benefits of Occupational and Physical Therapy in the Acute Postpartum Period" (2026). Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstones. 65.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/otd_capstone/65
