Neuro-occupation: linking sensory deprivation and self-care in the ICU patient

Neuro-occupation is an emerging concept in occupational therapy. The concept of neuro-occupation provides a basis to understand how the nervous system is intertwined with all aspects of occupational performance. This paper uses the framework of neuro-occupation to link a neurological system, the reticular activating system (RAS), to the performance of self-care by patients in an intensive care setting. This correlation is made because the RAS is responsible for organizing sensory information. Inappropriate amounts of stimulation effect the RAS and result in sensory deprivation or sensory overload, which negatively impacts occupational performance. Implications for occupational therapy practice are also addressed.