Certified Occupational Therapeutic Assistant- New Position

• Patient Care
• Implement occupational therapy treatment plans as developed by the Occupational Therapist
• Provide skilled therapy interventions to improve activities of daily living (ADLs), mobility, strength, coordination, and cognitive functioning
• Assist patients with adaptive equipment training and therapeutic exercises
• Monitor patient responses to treatment and report progress, concerns, or changes in condition to the supervising O
• Be able to adjust to resident’s needs in the moment, and handle multiple priorities at once. Be able to exercise awareness, empathy, and understanding of resident’s physical and/or emotional needs, and implement according interventions.
• Document therapy interventions daily or as needed.

Functional Risk Reduction (CMS: Function & Mobility Domains)

COTAs address functional deficits that contribute to falls with major injury by

• Training residents in safe transfers, toileting, dressing, and bathing—the most common times falls occur
• Improving upper extremity strength, coordination, and endurance, which supports safe use of walkers, wheelchairs, and grab bars
• Reinforcing proper body mechanics and task sequencing during daily activities

Position Responsibilities

• Accurately document treatment sessions, progress notes, and patient responses in accordance with facility policy and regulatory standards
• Maintain compliance with Medicare, Medicaid, and insurance guidelines
• Adhere to state practice acts, professional standards, and facility protocols
• Empower the resident by engaging them in multiple therapy domains focused on the “whole” person.
• Regularly engage the residents in physical, cognitive, and social programming. Promote their involvement in programs in buildings and units.
• Develop and implement programs of physical wellness to promote strength and maintenance of resident’s mobility and functional ability.
• Ability to work independently and as part of the Therapeutic Recreation team.
• Attend regular meetings and trainings with Therapeutic Recreation team, and foster a creative and collaborative culture in the department.
• Participate in resident assessments a requested or required.

• Collaboration
• Work collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team, including therapists, nursing staff, physicians, and social services
• Participate in care planning meetings and interdisciplinary rounds as needed
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, and team members

• Safety & Professional Practice
• Ensure a safe treatment environment by following infection control and safety procedures
• Maintain patient confidentiality and HIPAA compliance
• Maintain required licensure, certification, and continuing education

Qualifications

• and Education & Certification
• Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
• Current state licensure as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
• National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification required

• Experience
• Experience in skilled nursing, rehabilitation, or long-term care preferred
• New graduates encouraged to apply
• Talents or experience in art, music, or cooking a plus.
• Experience in a human services related field is a plus.
• Experience in a therapeutic recreation program is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, transfer, and assist patients as needed
• Prolonged standing, walking, bending, and reaching
• Manual dexterity to handle therapy equipment

Exposure to Conditions

• May be exposed to contaminants, infections, odors, and psychosocial behaviors.