Occupational therapists assist patients in relearning a variety of daily activities including eating, dressing, and personal hygiene. These activities are referred to as activities of daily living (ADL). Occupational therapists also help patients regain control and function of their arms and hands. Additionally, the occupational therapist will assess the need for a wheelchair, cushion, or other equipment which will allow patients to function safely and independently in the home environment. Therapists instruct both the patient and family on the use of this equipment, positioning and transferring techniques, and activities of daily living.

Services offered include specialized seating and wheelchair assessment for pediatric and adult patients on the inpatient and outpatient services, as well as evaluation and recommendation of other durable medical equipment such as bathroom grab bars, commodes and shower seats.  Additionally, evaluation and recommendation of other assistive devices for daily living is a service offered.  Treatment of complex burn patients including those needing special hand/upper extremity splints are offered for both in and out patients.

Occupational Therapy at UC Davis Health System has a well established student intern program with affiliation contracts currently with several universities placing interns for three month physical disability internships as well as pediatric internships for OTR interns.  Additionally, we have a student intern ten week physical disabilities affiliation for COTA interns from the Sacramento City College COTA program.