Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant - PRN

Job Summary:

The Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant functions under the general supervision of the Occupational Therapy Team Leader and under the direct supervision of the occupational therapist responsible for a specific patient's care.

The Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant assumes responsibility and accountability for providing occupational therapy modalities and treatment procedures as determined by a treatment plan established by an Occupational Therapist and in accordance with established hospital and departmental policies while maintaining the highest degree of quality patient care.

Responsibilities:

• Provides care per physician's orders and plan of care developed by evaluating therapist; takes measurements of patient status, within the limits of his/her licensure and ability, as appropriate in providing care and to assist in assessing the effectiveness of care.
• Maintains communication and collaboration with the evaluating therapist to promote maximum benefits from therapy.
• Works cooperatively with other patient team personnel in maintaining standards for professional occupational therapy practice and interdisciplinary teamwork. These functions are carried out according to hospital policy in accordance with the mission and vision of the hospital and consistent with the philosophy of the department.
• Performs all duties according to hospital policy in accordance with the mission and vision of the hospital and consistent with the philosophy of the department.
• Participates in performance improvement and supports program development activities.
• Responsibilities include contributing to cost effectiveness of services and programs provided by the department; communicating the employee's observations and suggestions related to opportunities for improvement; and maintaining positive relations with all customers.
• Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.
• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic and religious/spiritual needs of patients and their families.
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Maintains department cleanliness and safety.
• Implements education plan as outlined by the evaluating therapist, determines additional educational needs of the patient, family, care giver or significant other as they arise and in collaboration with the evaluating therapist provides education to meet those needs.
• Follows plan for discharge and discusses with evaluating therapist any additional discharge concerns which arise during care.
• Communicates appropriately and clearly to physicians, staff and administrative team.
• Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.
• Maintains a good working relationship both within the department and with other departments.
• Consults other departments, as appropriate, to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities.
• Participates in infection control, departmental equipment training and organizational safety and fire safety programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Professional Requirements:

• Adheres to dress code, appearance is neat and clean.
• Maintains regulatory requirements, including all state, federal and Joint Commission regulations.
• Maintains and ensures patient confidentiality at all times.
• Reports to work on time and as scheduled.
• Wears identification while on duty.
• Attends departmental in-services and completes annual competencies/education requirements.
• Works at maintaining a good rapport and a cooperative working relationship with physicians, departments and staff.
• Represents the organization in a positive and professional manner.
• Complies with policies and procedures regarding department operations, fire, safety, infection control and emergency management.
• Complies with all organizational policies regarding ethical business practices.
• Communicates the mission, ethics and goals of the hospital, as well as the focus statement of the department.

Experience/Skills:

• Current licensure as a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant in the state.

• Current Basic Life Support/CPR Card.