Occupational Therapy Assistant

Responsible for administering occupational therapy modalities of treatment as directed by an occupational therapist (OT). Administers treatments and physical agents as per the occupational therapist an effort to restore function and prevent disability following injury, disease, or physical disability. Assist occupational patients to reach their maximum performance and level of functioning, while learning to live within the limits of their capabilities. The occupational therapy assistant participates in operational and performance improvement activities within the department. This position attends education sessions when offered, related to competencies or changes in processes. Understands regulatory and compliance standards to assure the provision of safe, cost-effective and quality care. Participates in all infection control, departmental equipment training, organizational safety, and fire safety programs. Other duties as assigned.

Specific job duties include but are not limited to:

• Assist Occupational Therapist in evaluating the current level of function of patient and revising plan of treatment as necessary. 
• Observe, record and report changes in the patient's condition to supervising OT/staff. 
• Diffuse patient and family complaints and reports these complaints to the lead Occupational Therapist prior to involving Director or Clinical Supervisor.
• Proactively problem solve situations as needed; able to communicate to the appropriate chain of command for further action needed
• Maintain open communication with the interdisciplinary team.
• Maintain open communication with the Lead Occupational Therapist in relation to responsibilities or patient concerns.
• Educate the patient/family on use of adaptive equipment in the home. 
• Actively participate in weekly case conferences, meetings, and staff in-services. 
• Confirm on regular basis the scheduling of patients with OT to coordinate supervisory visits in timely fashion. 
• Performs therapeutic procedures by administering manual exercises and instructing, encouraging and assisting patients in performing activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living, cognitive training to assist patient in safe decision making, and assessment and training with adaptive equipment. 
• Administer treatment programs for patients as directed by OT. 
• Prepare daily notes including patient visit, addressing progress towards goals and homebound status. 
• Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules and regulations and adhering to infection-control policies and protocols. 
• Ensures that daily patient documentation is accurate and entered on a timely basis.
• Demonstrates critical thinking skills and actively completes assignments and documentation per agency policy.
• Provides and documents patient status report to Occupational Therapist overseeing patient. 
• Works with the Occupational Therapist to assure patient visits are provided as outlined in the plan of care. 
• Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities, reading periodicals, maintaining personal networks and participating in professional organizations. 
• Achieves expected organizational behavioral standards.
• Puts patient first above personal needs and beliefs.
• Acts as a mentor to less experienced staff.

EDUCATION: Graduate of an approved school for Occupational Therapy Assistants required.

LICENSE/CERTIFICATION/REGISTRY: Current State Occupational Therapy Assistant Licensure required, Current and valid Basic Life Support certification required. 

KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE: At least 1 year of previous experience in all aspects of occupational therapy as an assistant required, Home Health experience preferred.