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Summary

The Occupational Therapy Assistant is responsible for carrying out medically prescribed Occupational Therapy programs, while under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist, to facilitate the rehabilitation of the mentally and physically impaired. The Assistant will direct patient’s participation in selected tasks to restore, reinforce, and enhance performance in order to facilitate the learning of those skills and functions essential for adaptation and productivity. The Occupational Therapist Assistant must demonstrate knowledge of growth and development of the lifespan and assist in identifying each patient’s requirements relative to age specific needs of the patient population.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

These duties and responsibilities described below represent the general tasks performed on a daily basis; other tasks may be assigned.

+ Adhere to established departmental policies and procedures regarding objectives, quality assurance programs, and environmental and infection control standards

+ Implement a variety of sensorimotor, educational, recreational, and social activities to provide occupation therapy for patients of all ages

+ Consult with other members of the rehabilitation team to select the most appropriate activity program for the individual patients based on patient needs and capabilities

+ Select appropriate activities based on individual’s physical capacity, intelligence level, and interest

+ Teach patients the skills and techniques required for participation in occupational therapy

+ Evaluate patient progress, attitudes, and behaviors on an ongoing basis

+ Report any changes or recommendations for updated treatments to the Occupational Therapist

+ Prepare reports summarizing the patient’s reactions to therapy

+ Conduct internal training programs for medical and nursing staff on occupational therapy techniques and objectives

+ Design and fit adaptive devices, such as splints and braces, for patient use based on disability and rehabilitation needs under the supervision of the occupation therapist

+ Consult with the lead physician on patient’s progress

+ Maintain appropriate medical records

+ Attend required hospital-wide orientations, meetings, and in-services

+ Demonstrate a commitment to flexible work scheduling when necessary to ensure patient care

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

Minimum Required Education: Associate’s degree in Occupational Therapy, or successful completion of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program

Preferred Education: Not applicable

Experience: Previous Occupational Therapy experience is preferred, but will accept new graduates

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

Applicant must obtain certification from the American Occupational Therapy Certification Board within one year of employment. BLS certification within 90 days of hire required, ACLS preferred.