The Role of Occupational Therapy in Treating Patients with Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices 2562

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

Location: ROOM: Marquette Room >>> DIRECTIONS: Third Floor >>> From the Main Elevator Bank, proceed right. Marquette is located directly in front beyond the Marquette Foyer.

Corresponding Presenter(s)

MJ

Melissa L. Jonardi, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist II
Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin
Wauwatosa, WI, United States

Slides Slides
Kathryn Johansson, OTR/L (she/her/hers)

Occupational Therapist II
Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin
Wauwatosa, WI, United States

Current literature poorly articulates Occupational Therapists’ unique role in the rehabilitation of patients with mechanical circulatory support devices (MCSD) including extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), Impella, intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), and right ventricular assistive device (RVAD). This symposium will validate and delineate OT’s role as part of the multidisciplinary team in treating patients on temporary life support, including how to best advocate for OT, implement interventions, and discuss potential barriers to culture change.

Learning Objectives:

Describe the benefits of early Occupational Therapy with patients on mechanical circulatory support devices (MCSD).
Describe strategies to integrate and implement best practice interventions at their institutions for patients on MCSD.
Define barriers and advocate for the role of Occupational Therapy on the multidisciplinary team for patients with MCSD