Final answer:
The OT is likely using a case study methodology to research the spinal cord hemisection of the patient resulting from a motorcycle accident. The patient would be expected to have sensory deficits in fine touch on the side with preserved motor function and decreased pain sensation on the side opposite to the weak or paralyzed limb.
Step-by-step explanation:
An occupational therapist (OT) studying a patient with a spinal cord injury from a motorcycle accident might employ a case study research methodology. This approach is characterized by a detailed and in-depth examination of an individual's condition to understand the consequences of the injury. In the context of a thoracic spinal cord hemisection, the sensory deficits relating to touch and pain can be complex. Due to the way pain fibers and touch fibers are organized in the spinal cord, the patient may experience a loss of fine touch on the side with motor function intact because the dorsal column is damaged on the side of the lesion. Conversely, the sense of pain could be perceived on the damaged side because pain fibers cross over to the other side before ascending in the spinal column. Therefore, on the side opposite the motor function loss, where the dorsal column is intact, touch sensation should be normal, but pain sensation may be diminished below the level of injury.