Application of the ICF and OTPF-4 to Conceptualize the Dual Diagnosis of COVID-19 and Stroke: Implications for Occupational Therapy Practice in Acute and Inpatient Rehabilitation

Occup Ther Health Care. 2023 Oct;37(4):576-594. doi: 10.1080/07380577.2022.2081753. Epub 2022 Jun 3.

Abstract

There is mounting evidence that the vascular manifestations associated with COVID-19 are linked to ischemic strokes. The emergence of patients with both COVID-19 and cerebrovascular accidents (COV-CVA) has created a need to adjust occupational therapy service delivery for inpatients with this dual diagnosis. This clinical perspective paper conceptualizes COV-CVA as a health condition using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Framework (ICF). The Occupational Therapy Practice Framework-4 was used to guide clinical considerations and recommendations for the evaluation, intervention, and discharge planning of patients with COV-CVA.

Keywords: COVID-19; disability and health framework; international classification of functioning; occupational therapy; occupational therapy practice framework-4 rehabilitation; stroke.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 Testing
  • COVID-19*
  • Diagnosis, Dual (Psychiatry)
  • Disability Evaluation
  • Disabled Persons* / rehabilitation
  • Humans
  • Inpatients
  • Occupational Therapy*
  • Stroke Rehabilitation*
  • Stroke* / therapy