Abstract
OT and ABA collaborated about a student with severe self-injurious behavior (SIB) by analyzing sensory input provided by his intensive protective equipment to fade to more socially appropriate and functional items to increase independence and participation in daily activities
Primary Author and Speaker: Morgan Levy
Contributing Authors: Alexandra Demeo, Jacob Richardson, Katharine Davies, Willow Hozella, Allie Rader
This poster presents a case study of a student with a significant history of severe self injury who required non-contingent wearing of intensive protective equipment throughout the day in order to ensure his safety. This equipment included a protective soft helmet with a face cage, arm limiters, and knee pads. However, the protective equipment significantly limited this student’s ability to participate in everyday occupations based on the mobility limitations of his arms, and lack of access to his head and face while in the helmet. He was observed to engage in increased behaviors when these items were removed as they appeared to present him with a level of comfort and safety while worn. The occupational therapist worked with his team of BCBAs and special education teachers to determine how the equipment may be influencing his behaviors and to create individualized and holistic interventions to increase his participation and engagement in daily activities. To fade the equipment, the occupational therapist identified the sensory input provided by the equipment he currently utilized and matched alternative items that would continue to provide similar input in a less restrictive manner. Overtime, the equipment progressively faded in the absence of dangerous behaviors, until he was able to safely complete his day in a knit hat and cubital splints (without the stays), providing increased mobility and occupational engagement from baseline. Throughout this process, the student was provided access to a variety of sensory materials (weighted items, body socks, fidgets) to increase his overall sensory input during the day in the form of self-restraint to help maintain his regulation. This presentation demonstrates the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration with occupational therapy, applied behavior analysis, and special education to improve outcomes and participation for individuals with intensive behavioral needs.
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