The UCITO project is a research initiative focused on integrating occupational therapy into Intensive Care Units (ICUs), a setting not traditionally associated with occupational therapy intervention. Developed in the ICU of Bellvitge University Hospital, the project has received support from the Endavant TO grant awarded by the Col·legi de Terapeutes Ocupacionals de Catalunya, enabling the development of an innovative line of practice within occupational therapy in critical care settings.

The study involved the implementation of a multicomponent occupational therapy programme based on meaningful occupation, combined with multisensory stimulation technology. The main objective was to evaluate the effects of this early intervention on patients admitted to the ICU.

To this end, a pre- and post-intervention study design was developed, including individualised 20- to 30-minute sessions adapted to each person’s level of consciousness, tolerance, and clinical condition. This approach made it possible to provide a personalised intervention focused on the needs and abilities of each patient in a highly complex clinical setting.

The results obtained show significant improvements in functionality, mobility, strength, cognition, and emotional wellbeing among participants. Quality of life also showed a positive trend, although statistical significance was not reached.

These findings reinforce the feasibility, safety, and relevance of incorporating occupational therapy into critical care settings, highlighting its role in promoting a holistic, humanised, and person-centred recovery. The project also contributes to broadening the scope of the profession and consolidating its presence in emerging areas within the healthcare system.

The project is currently being expanded through data collection at the ICU of Sant Pau Hospital from a group of patients who do not receive occupational therapy intervention, with the aim of establishing a control group for comparison of results.

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