Occupational Therapist (Hand Therapy)

About Hand Surgical Associates:
Hand Surgical Associates, located in Metairie, Louisiana, is a premier provider of specialized care for hand and upper extremity conditions. Our Hand Therapy Center providescomprehensive services, including therapeutic modalities to address hand injuries and diseases, potentially helping patients avoid surgery. We also provide completerehabilitation services for post-surgical recovery. Our hand therapists work closely with orthopedic and hand surgeons to monitor treatment effectiveness, ensuring optimalpatient outcomes and a return to a comfortable, productive lifestyle. Learn more at Hand Surgical Associates Hand Therapy Center.
Job Summary
Hand Surgical Associates seeks a skilled and compassionate Occupational Therapist to join our Hand and Upper Extremity surgical team. The role involves evaluating andtreating patients with various hand and upper extremity conditions, from post-surgical rehabilitation to non-surgical management of injuries and diseases. The therapist willcollaborate with leading orthopedic and hand surgeons to provide comprehensive care, helping patients regain function and improve quality of life. While Certified HandTherapists (CHT) are preferred, we encourage applications from Occupational Therapists interested in pursuing CHT certification and committed to advancing their expertisein hand therapy.
Responsibilities
Patient Assessment:
Conduct thorough evaluations of patients with hand and upper extremity conditions, such as fractures, nerve injuries, and post-surgical cases,to determine appropriate treatment plans.
Treatment Planning:
Develop and implement individualized treatment programs based on clinical assessments, patient goals, and evidence-based practices.
Therapeutic Interventions:
Provide interventions, including exercises, manual therapy, and modalities, to restore function and manage pain.
Splinting:
Design and fabricate custom splints and orthoses to support recovery and enhance functional outcomes.
Wound and Scar Care:
Perform wound care and scar management to promote healing and minimize complications.
Patient Education:
Instruct patients and families on home exercise programs, adaptive techniques, and strategies to improve daily living activities, such as dressingor grooming.
Collaboration:
Work closely with hand surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated, comprehensive patient care.
Documentation:
Maintain accurate, timely records of patient evaluations, treatment plans, progress notes in compliance with regulatory standards.
Professional Development:
Engage in continuing education to stay current with advancements in hand therapy.
Qualifications
Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
Current Occupational Therapy license in the state of Louisiana.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Strong knowledge of hand and upper extremity anatomy, physiology, and pathology.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective patient and team interactions.
Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
Strong organizational and time management skills to manage patient caseloads efficiently.
Preferred Qualifications
Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) certification from the Hand Therapy Certification Commission. (Preferred, but not necessary)
Previous experience in hand therapy or a related field; new graduates with a strong interest in hand therapy are encouraged to apply.
Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems.
Work Schedule
Full-time position, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, at the Hand Therapy Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Occasional After-Hours Rotation.
Physical Requirements
Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting and transferring patients (up to 50 pounds occasionally).
Manual dexterity to perform therapeutic techniques and fabricate custom splints.
Ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods during patient care and administrative tasks