Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) is a skilled professional who administers treatment plans according to the directives of the Occupational Therapist at the facility. The COTA assists the Occupational Therapist with patient documentation as directed by the Occupational Therapist.

Position Duties/Responsibilities

A. COTAs demonstrate skill in the use and proper choice of occupational therapy techniques and treats patients effectively with good response.

1. Maintains and enhances patient dignity and modesty during treatment.
2. Shows appropriate therapist-patient rapport explaining the treatments and discussing the reasons for occupational therapy with patient, etc.
3. Follows accepted precautions and contraindications for treatment.
4. Utilizes appropriate therapeutic techniques.

B. COTAs provide accurate and timely patient records.

1. Completes daily documentation procedures assuring that all services are appropriately accounted for from a clinical and billing perspective.
2. Communicates and documents significant changes in patient progress as a result of treatment and accepts modified treatment plan if needed.
3. Documents equipment provided, home programs and handouts given to the patient.
4. Documents all communication with physicians and POA concerning patient's status.

C. COTAs communicate with others maintaining a professional attitude to assure quality care.

1. If directed by the Occupational Therapist, contacts physicians as needed to clarify diagnosis or orders, change treatment, or discharge.
2. Consults patient's POA, nurses, social workers, physical and speech therapists, and physicians as appropriate and needed.
3. Notifies facility personnel and family as to use of equipment.
4. Attends patient related meetings in accordance with facility policy.

D. COTAs demonstrate knowledge of insurance guidelines as related to applicable rehabilitation services.

E. COTAs perform all other duties and functions necessary for the maintenance of efficient, economic and quality operation of the department.

1. Projects and maintains a professional appearance.
2. Makes suggestions for department improvement and assists in development of these as appropriate.
3. Demonstrates leadership qualities utilizing support personnel where appropriate to perform activities not requiring a licensed Occupational Therapist.

Supervision

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants provide clinical supervision as requested to Rehabilitation Techs.

Physical Demands

1. Must be able to lift 35 pounds. Safe moving, lifting or transferring of patients is required.
2. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
3. Must demonstrate appropriate and applicable fine motor skills.
4. Must demonstrate adequate visual acuity for safety with patient interaction.

Education and Training

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants must possess an appropriate Associate of Science degree from an accredited institution.

Licensure or Registry Requirements

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants must be licensed in the state, and must be able to pass a background check.