Occupational Therapist Assistant - Pulse Staffing

Job Summary:
An Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA) works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT) to assist patients in performing daily activities to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. OTAs help implement therapeutic treatment plans, work with patients to regain or develop skills for daily life, and provide support throughout the rehabilitation process. This role involves direct patient care, maintaining patient records, and collaborating with the healthcare team to achieve optimal outcomes.
Key Responsibilities:

• Patient Care and Treatment Implementation:
• Assist the Occupational Therapist in developing, implementing, and updating individualized treatment plans for patients.
• Provide direct patient care by performing therapeutic exercises, functional training, and activities to improve motor skills, coordination, and cognitive abilities.
• Demonstrate and assist patients in the use of adaptive equipment or assistive devices (e.g., splints, wheelchairs, or prosthetics).
• Monitor patient progress and modify treatment techniques as needed, under the supervision of the Occupational Therapist.
• Assist patients in practicing activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, grooming, cooking, and mobility.
• Documentation and Record Keeping:
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, including treatment progress, response to interventions, and any changes in the treatment plan.
• Document patient treatment sessions and activities in compliance with healthcare regulations and facility protocols.
• Communicate relevant patient information to the supervising Occupational Therapist to ensure comprehensive care.
• Collaboration with Healthcare Team:
• Work closely with physicians, physical therapists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care and achieve therapeutic goals.
• Participate in team meetings and case reviews to discuss patient progress, challenges, and treatment adjustments.
• Provide support and education to family members and caregivers on how to assist patients in achieving their therapeutic goals outside of the clinic or facility.
• Patient Education and Advocacy:
• Educate patients and their families on the importance of occupational therapy and how they can engage in activities to promote recovery.
• Offer guidance and strategies to patients on how to adapt their environment or routines to better support their independence and functional abilities.
• Provide emotional support to patients and their families to ensure a positive and motivating experience throughout the rehabilitation process.
• Treatment Environment and Equipment Maintenance:
• Ensure that treatment areas are clean, organized, and free from hazards to ensure patient safety.
• Assist in maintaining and caring for equipment, including adaptive devices, splints, and therapy tools.
• Order supplies as needed to ensure the availability of necessary materials for patient care.
• Professional Development:
• Stay updated on current practices, techniques, and trends in occupational therapy by participating in training, workshops, and continuing education opportunities.
• Adhere to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and other regulatory bodies.

Required Qualifications:

• Education:
• Associate’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
• Licensing/Certification:
• State licensure or certification as an Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) as required by the state of employment.
• Certification by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is preferred.
• Experience:
• Previous experience in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital, outpatient clinic, nursing facility, or rehabilitation center, is preferred.
• Skills:
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
• Knowledge of therapeutic techniques and strategies for treating patients with physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities.
• Ability to adapt treatment plans to meet individual patient needs and goals.
• Strong organizational skills to maintain patient records and treatment documentation.
• Basic understanding of medical terminology and documentation procedures.

Required Qualifications:

• Education:
• Associate’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
• Licensing/Certification:
• State licensure or certification as an Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) as required by the state of employment.
• Certification by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is preferred.
• Experience:
• Previous experience in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital, outpatient clinic, nursing facility, or rehabilitation center, is preferred.
• Skills:
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
• Knowledge of therapeutic techniques and strategies for treating patients with physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities.
• Ability to adapt treatment plans to meet individual patient needs and goals.
• Strong organizational skills to maintain patient records and treatment documentation.
• Basic understanding of medical terminology and documentation procedures.