Occupational Therapy for Functional Impairments Resulting From COVID-19 Infection: A Case Report

Mannion, Nicole; Sullivan, Nicole

This case report examines the role of occupational therapy in the recovery of a client who became critically ill with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. In it, we describe evaluation and treatment methods, functional impairments, and special considerations when working with a client with severe coronavirus disease 2019 infection. The client was a 43-yr-old Hispanic man treated in a long-term acute-care hospital. Client-centered treatment sessions focused on activities of daily living (ADLs), self-feeding, medication management, and leisure and were implemented in 30- to 45-min sessions 3 times per week for 5 wk. The Activity Measure for Post Acute Care Daily Activities Short Form was used to measure basic mobility, daily activities, and applied cognition in the acute setting. A manual dynamometer was used to measure grip strength, and the Nine-Hole Peg Test was used to measure digit dexterity. Both were used in the context of occupational engagement. Data were collected at evaluation, every 2 wk, and at discharge. The client achieved his goals and demonstrated marked improvement in independence with basic ADLs, leisure activities, bilateral grip strength, and manual dexterity.