309 - Occupational Therapy's Role in Maximizing Quality of Life in Bone Marrow Transplant

Abstract

Currently, an estimated 1,290,773 people in the United States are living with or in remission from general blood cancers; a number that has increased by more than 50,000 individuals since last year. Furthermore, an estimated 172,910 people in the United States are expected to be diagnosed with leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma in 2017 (Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 2017). As bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is a progressive treatment option for blood-related cancers, side effects lead to challenges across multiple functional domains. These side effects may include difficulty with: endurance, sleep hygiene, exercise and activity engagement, self-concept, psychosocial adjustment, and well-being (Bevans et al., 2008; Bieri et al., 2008; Rischer et al., 2009). It is imperative to assess and address quality of life and psychosocial effects amongst those undergoing transplant. Occupational therapy practitioners are uniquely skilled to address symptom distress, activity engagement, adaptation to the environment, and other issues affecting life satisfaction during one's inpatient stay in the hospital (Christiansen & Matsuka, 2006). Occupation is defined to include all the activities that people do to occupy themselves, including looking after themselves and enjoying life (Townsend & Polatakjo, 2013). Consistent with literature, participation in meaningful occupations promotes occupational performance and contributes to good health and well-being (Hocking, 2009). Evidence based practice within occupational therapy supports providing treatment, including the following areas: modification of daily routines, incorporation of new coping strategies for healthful stress management and sleep hygiene, medication management and tracking symptomatology, fatigue management, and self-management of one's overall quality of life (Bevans et al., 2008; Christiansen & Matsuka, 2006; Demiralp, 2010; Kangas, Bovbjerg, & Montgomery, 2008; Paul, 2011). This presentation will examine the role of occupational therapists in providing supportive care for individuals undergoing bone marrow transplant. Occupational therapy efforts to maximize quality of life and promote psychosocial well being will be highlighted through a general intervention framework and case examples. Occupational therapy can be effective in enhancing patients' experience, self efficacy, and overall well-being throughout their transplant stay in an acute inpatient hospital setting; a process that has been identified to hinder a person's ability to spontaneously engage in activities across their daily routine of life (Paul, 2011). In conclusion, occupational therapy can contribute to the interdisciplinary effort and patient care by maximizing individuals' well being, addressing psychosocial needs, and ultimately enhancing quality of life.