The Role of Occupational Therapy in the Secondary Prevention of Transient Ischemic Attacks

A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a condition in which an individual experiences an episode of temporary and focal neurological dysfunction of rapid onset, caused by cerebral circulatory failure and lasting no more than 24 hours (Shah, Cooper & Lyons, 1992, p. 358-359). Even though a TIA is temporary and leaves no permanent effects, it\u27s far from an irrelevant event. About one in three people who have a TIA eventually have a stroke, with about half occurring during the year after the TIA (Mayo, 2006). A TIA can serve as both a warning and an opportunity: a warning of an imminent stroke and an opportunity to take steps to prevent it. There is a need for individuals who have experienced a TIA to receive follow up treatments aimed at educational information and preventative interventions (Goldstein, Bian, Samsa, Bonito, Lux & Matchar, 2006). A comprehensive literature review was conducted by utilizing credible journal articles, textbooks and scholarly internet websites on the pathophysiology of TIAs, common risk factors, the delayed treatment sought after a TIA, depression related symptoms, the risk factors for TIA, possible treatment interventions and the role of occupational therapy. Furthermore, theoretical frameworks of occupational therapy were explored. It was determined that Occupational Adaptation model (Kramer, Hinojosa, & Royeen, 2003) was the most appropriate theory to guide this scholarly project. Through this process, it was determined that occupational therapists need to be informed about this undeveloped area of practice and seek out additional education on the various aspect of TIAs and the role of occupational therapy to better serve this population. An educational Microsoft PowerPoint presentation was developed for occupational therapists in order to provide them with information regarding TIA and the importance of secondary prevention in the form of lifestyle modifications and mental health management. The PowerPoint presentation and supplemental lecture notes pertain to the pathophysiology of TIAs, individual risk factors, the settings for occupational therapy services, the role of the therapist and treatment interventions. It is intended to be utilized at healthcare facilities, state occupational therapy associations as well as national organizations