Occupational Therapist Assistant

OVERVIEW: Occupational Therapist Assistant

Under the direction of an Occupational Therapist, the OTA will evaluate, plan, implement, and monitor an occupational therapy treatment program for patient/residents based on the therapist’s evaluation and the physician’s request. The Occupational Therapist Assistant may, in accordance with state laws, assist in development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, direct activity programs, and document the progress of treatments.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Works with occupational therapists to plan, implement, and administer educational, vocational,
  and recreational programs to restore and enhance performance in individuals with functional
  impairments

• Selects therapy activities to fit patients’ needs and capabilities

• Observes and records patients’ progress, attitudes, and behavior, and maintains this information
  in client records

• Communicates and collaborates with other health care professionals involved with the care of a
  patient

• Instructs or assists in instructing patients and families in home programs, basic living skills, and
  the care and use of adaptive equipment. Implements or assists occupational therapists with
  implementing treatment plans to help clients function independently

• Evaluates daily living skills and capacities of physically, developmentally or emotionally disabled
  clients. Aids patients in dressing and grooming

• Assembles, cleans, and maintains equipment and materials for patient use

• Alters treatment programs to obtain better results if treatment is not having the intended effect

• Demonstrates therapy techniques such as manual and creative arts or games

• Teaches patients how to deal constructively with their emotions

• Transports patients to and from the occupational therapy work area

• Attends care plan meetings to review patient progress and update care plans

• Performs clerical duties such as scheduling appointments, collecting data, and documenting
  health insurance billings

• Orders educational and treatment supplies

• Assist in the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) process

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:

• Associate degree or certification from an occupational therapy program, and clinical experience
• Possess up-to-date knowledge of treatment practices
• Ability to solve problems independently
• Ability to write reports and correspondence at a professional level
• Ability to use a computer and software proficiently
• Drive to continually learn new treatment techniques
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (with AED)

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This position has no supervisory requirements

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• This job operates in a health care setting. This role requires regular walking to various locations
  around the care center.
• Incumbent may be exposed to virus, disease and infection from patients and specimens in
  working environment.
• Incumbent may be required to work extended periods of time at a video display terminal.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an
  employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit;
  use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb
  stairs; talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift or move office products and supplies, up
  to 50 pounds.

TRAVEL:

• Travel is not expected in this position