February 2026 Neuro SIS Meeting
The ABCs of DoC: Applying Evidence to Practice in Acute Disorders of Consciousness
Learning Outcomes:
-Identify at least three behavioral signs indicative of emerging consciousness in patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) using standardized evaluation tools
- Describe two evidence-based OT interventions that can be implemented with patients with DoC to promote consciousness.
- Summarize practical strategies for multidisciplinary collaboration in developing a consistent approach to care for patients with DoC, based on insights shared from the speaker’s experience.
Patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) in acute care are often perceived as having limited rehabilitation potential, resulting in inconsistent therapy involvement or delayed intervention. However, emerging research supports early, structured evaluation and treatment to improve diagnostic accuracy and long-term outcomes. This session challenges the misconception that therapy services offer “false hope” and reframes occupational therapy’s (OT) role as evidence-based and ethical. Participants will explore current literature on DoC recovery trajectories, validated assessment tools, and interventions appropriate for acute care settings. Attendees will gain practical insights into building collaborative models of care and the impact of coordinated therapy on outcomes.
Please join us for February's Neuro SIS meeting on Tuesday, February 17th from 5:00-6:30PM. We have an exciting presentation from Danielle Wengraf on her paradigm shifting work on disorders of consciousness following significant neurological injury. Danielle provides practical and evidence based approach to intervening in this often discounted population. We will be offering 1.5 CEUS for those in attendance.
About the Speaker:
Elizabeth (Danielle) Wengraf, OTR/L, CSRS, is an occupational therapist with 7+ years of neurorehabilitation experience from ICU to return to work. She helped develop and now leads a specialized interdisciplinary disorders of consciousness program, which has provided treatment to over 60 patients since its inception in 2023.
When: Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 5:00-6:30 pm via zoom
Where: Zoom. Once you submit this registration, a required secondary Zoom registration link will directly follow on the "thank you page". If you do not immediately see this, please email office@arizota.org.
Cost: Free for ArizOTA members; $10 for non-members
CEUs: Those who attend this presentation live will earn 1.5 CEU credit. You will complete an attestation form to immediately receive your CEU certificate following the event.
*Registration closes at 10:00 AM the day of the event. Contact office@arizota.org with any questions.