Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Job Description

Job Description

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Position Summary

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) provides skilled occupational therapy services to residents under the direction and supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT). The COTA implements treatment plans designed to improve residents' ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), enhance functional independence, maximize safety, and improve overall quality of life. The COTA collaborates with the interdisciplinary care team to achieve optimal resident outcomes while maintaining compliance with federal, state, facility, and professional practice standards.

What we offer:

Competitive Pay

Paid Time Off

Medical * Dental * Vision * Life * STD Insurances.

ABOUT THE GROVE - Located in Hernando, we are a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility that is dedicated to helping our residents maximize their potential and live their lives to the fullest. We offer a modern, comfortable, and secure facility staffed by caring professionals where individuals receive the finest sub-acute medical care, rehabilitation services, and 24-hour skilled nursing care. We are committed to maintaining a facility where compassionate care is provided in an environment of respect, dignity. It is also a great working environment for our staff as we truly value and appreciate each member of our team!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide occupational therapy treatments as established by the supervising Occupational Therapist.

• Implement individualized treatment plans to improve residents' functional abilities and independence.

• Assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), including dressing, grooming, bathing, feeding, toileting, and mobility.

• Utilize therapeutic exercises, activities, adaptive equipment, and therapeutic techniques to meet established treatment goals.

• Observe, monitor, and document resident responses to treatment accurately and timely.

• Communicate resident progress, concerns, and recommendations to the supervising Occupational Therapist.

• Instruct residents, families, and caregivers in therapeutic exercises, safety techniques, adaptive equipment use, and home exercise programs as appropriate.

• Maintain treatment areas, equipment, and supplies in a clean, safe, and organized condition.

• Participate in interdisciplinary care plan meetings and collaborate with nursing, therapy, dietary, social services, and other departments.

• Assist with discharge planning and recommendations for adaptive equipment and environmental modifications.

• Maintain productivity standards established by the rehabilitation department.

• Complete all documentation in accordance with Medicare, Medicaid, managed care, and facility requirements.

• Follow infection prevention and control policies and all safety procedures.

• Maintain resident confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

QualificationsEducation

• Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.

Licensure/Certification

• Current Florida Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) license in good standing required.

• Current CPR certification preferred or required upon hire, according to facility policy.

Experience

• Experience in a skilled nursing facility, rehabilitation center, or long-term care setting preferred.

• New graduates are encouraged to apply.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of occupational therapy principles and treatment techniques.

• Ability to follow treatment plans established by the Occupational Therapist.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Strong documentation and organizational abilities.

• Ability to motivate and encourage residents during therapy sessions.

• Ability to work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary healthcare team.

• Knowledge of Medicare Part A, Part B, managed care, and documentation standards preferred.

• Proficiency with electronic medical records (EMR) systems preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to frequently stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and reach.

• Ability to transfer, position, lift, push, and assist residents safely using proper body mechanics and mechanical lifting equipment when necessary.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and assist with heavier transfers as needed.

• Ability to tolerate prolonged periods of standing and walking.

• Sufficient visual, auditory, and manual dexterity to safely perform therapy services.

Working Conditions

• Skilled Nursing Facility and Rehabilitation environment.

• Frequent interaction with residents, families, visitors, physicians, and interdisciplinary team members.

• Exposure to infectious diseases, bodily fluids, and other healthcare-related hazards requiring appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Compliance Responsibilities

• Maintain compliance with all applicable federal, state, local, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), OSHA, HIPAA, and facility regulations.

• Practice within the scope of Florida Occupational Therapy laws and under the supervision requirements established by the Florida Board of Occupational Therapy Practice.

• Maintain required continuing education and professional licensure.

Essential Competencies

• Resident-centered care

• Compassion and professionalism

• Communication and teamwork

• Clinical judgment

• Time management

• Documentation accuracy

• Adaptability

• Integrity and accountability

• Safety awareness

• Customer service excellence

• We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

• Our facility uses the Florida Background Screening Clearinghouse, 435.12, Florida Statutes. Learn more at  

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