Licensed Occupational Therapist, Per Diem

Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists help patients of all ages who have limited abilities establish, develop and/or maintain the ability to complete daily functions and tasks. Through regular therapy sessions, occupational therapists work one-on-one with patients, focusing on their individual needs to help them achieve improved quality of life and a sense of independence. Occupational therapy concentrates on ameliorating the physical, mental, social and emotional sources of patients' disabilities.

Position Responsibilities Occupational Therapists provide care to patients based on the application of scientific occupational therapy principles. Responsibilities of the Occupational Therapist include (but are not limited to):

• Helps patient to develop, recover, or maintain daily living and work skills
• Aids patients in improving their basic motor functions and reasoning abilities
• Assists patients in performing all types of activities, ranging from using a computer to caring for daily needs, such as dressing, cooking and eating
• Incorporates physical exercises to increase patients' strength and dexterity
• Uses computer programs to help patients improve decision-making, abstract reasoning, problem solving, perceptual skills, memory, sequencing and coordination
• Instructs patients with permanent disabilities in the use of adaptive equipment, such as wheelchairs and orthotics
• Designs or makes special equipment needed at home or work
• Develops computer-aided adaptive equipment
• Arranges employment, evaluates work environment, plans work activities, and assesses the patient's progress; collaborates with the patient and employer to modify the work environment, so work can be successfully completed
• Assesses patients' home for hazards, recommends restorative or safety adaptations
• Provides guidance to family members and caregivers in safe and effective methods of caring for individuals
• Evaluates patients' progress and prepares reports that detail progress
• Performs other position-related duties as assigned, depending on assignment setting Marginal Responsibilities
• Supervises and directs the duties of occupational therapy assistants
• Requisitions supplies and equipment Other Responsibilities
• Complete required orientation as directed by facility
• Follow facility and OSHA safety rules and procedures while on assignment
• Follow facility and GHR Unusual Occurrence Protocol
• Respect cultural and religious practices of patients
• Uphold HIPAA regulations
• Punctual and dependent for assigned/confirmed shifts

Position Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited OT program with current OT license, in good standing with the State licensing board
• Minimum of one (1) year OT experience, in corresponding setting
• Federal-, State- and GHR-required credentials current and on file
• Cognitive skills as related to the position

Working Conditions

Occupational Therapists work in a variety of work settings. Evening and weekend work may be required in order to fit patient schedules. The job is physically demanding. Occupational Therapists are required to stand for long periods of time. They spend considerable time stooping, kneeling and crouching. OTs move heavy equipment. They assist with patient transfers and lifts or help them turn, stand or walk. So, to guard against back injury, they must follow proper body mechanics and procedures for lifting/moving patients.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift/move fifty (50) pounds.
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Fine motor skills
• Visual acuity