Exploring the Prevalence and confidence of Occupational Therapists Addressing Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction
Document Type
Abstract
Start Date
28-4-2026 3:30 PM
End Date
28-4-2026 4:45 PM
Description
Introduction: Pelvic floor dysfunction impacts toileting independence, dignity, and occupational performance. Occupational therapists (OTs) have the skills to address bowel and bladder dysfunction as activities of daily living; however, involvement and confidence in providing interventions remains low. Limited education in entry-level OT programs may reflect the gaps in clinical practice.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of OTs addressing bowel and bladder dysfunction in practice and to explore confidence, educational preparation, and perceived barriers.
Methods: A non-experimental, cross-sectional mixed-methods survey was distributed to licensed OTs practicing in the United States. The survey assessed practices, confidence, education, and barriers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative responses were analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results: Most respondents (91 %) reported screening bowel and bladder function with clients, but fewer than half (46%) set related goals. Common interventions were AOL training, toileting strategies, and education, while advanced interventions were infrequently used. Confidence was moderate for screening and intervention selection but low for internal pelvic floor assessment, with 92% reporting little to no confidence. Limited education and training (65%), time constraints (35%), and discomfort with sensitive topics (26%) were commonly reported barriers. Most participants (70%) reported receiving no pelvic health education in their entry-level occupational therapy programs.
Discussion: Results show variable OT involvement and confidence in addressing bowel and bladder dysfunction. Findings suggest a need for further research with educational preparedness and clinical practice related to pelvic health.
Recommended Citation
Long, Delaney; Sanders, Rhiana; Chaix, Madison; Curtis, Landyn; Chauvin, Allie; and Frens, Katherine, "Exploring the Prevalence and confidence of Occupational Therapists Addressing Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction" (2026). School of Allied Health Professions Research Day. 11.
https://digitalscholar.lsuhsc.edu/ahrd/2026/presentations/11
Exploring the Prevalence and confidence of Occupational Therapists Addressing Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction
Introduction: Pelvic floor dysfunction impacts toileting independence, dignity, and occupational performance. Occupational therapists (OTs) have the skills to address bowel and bladder dysfunction as activities of daily living; however, involvement and confidence in providing interventions remains low. Limited education in entry-level OT programs may reflect the gaps in clinical practice.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of OTs addressing bowel and bladder dysfunction in practice and to explore confidence, educational preparation, and perceived barriers.
Methods: A non-experimental, cross-sectional mixed-methods survey was distributed to licensed OTs practicing in the United States. The survey assessed practices, confidence, education, and barriers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative responses were analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results: Most respondents (91 %) reported screening bowel and bladder function with clients, but fewer than half (46%) set related goals. Common interventions were AOL training, toileting strategies, and education, while advanced interventions were infrequently used. Confidence was moderate for screening and intervention selection but low for internal pelvic floor assessment, with 92% reporting little to no confidence. Limited education and training (65%), time constraints (35%), and discomfort with sensitive topics (26%) were commonly reported barriers. Most participants (70%) reported receiving no pelvic health education in their entry-level occupational therapy programs.
Discussion: Results show variable OT involvement and confidence in addressing bowel and bladder dysfunction. Findings suggest a need for further research with educational preparedness and clinical practice related to pelvic health.