Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) will be working alongside an Occupational Therapist (OT) in a variety of therapy settings and areas. Under the guidance of the OT, the COTA implements and puts into action the OT's treatment plans for patients/residents. The COTA will commonly work with individuals who suffer from an illness, injury or a disability to improve and help them overcome the obstacles of daily activities.

Responsibilities

• Assists in the practice of occupational therapy and activities requiring an understanding of occupational therapy but not requiring professional or advanced training in the anatomical, biological, and physical sciences involved in the practice of occupational therapy.
• Practices only under the direction of a registered Occupational Therapist.
• Implements the occupational therapy treatment plan as established by the occupational therapist in accordance with the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) in accordance with guidelines issued by the governing body and its respective affiliate state chapter, current state and federal laws and regulations; and respective practice act(s) in the state.
• Offers suggestions, provides feedback, carries-out agreed upon activities, and voices constructive concerns in a collaborative manner with the Occupational Therapist.
• Documents occupational therapy services by charting in the resident medical record.
• Complies with facility policies and procedures for appropriately documenting for residents receiving occupational therapy.
• Prepares required documentation according to facility policy for billing purposes, discharge planning, etc. and as instructed by the occupational therapist or rehabilitation director.
• Helps residents perform their planned therapeutic procedures by administering appropriate exercises such as simply instructing and encouraging a resident through his/her exercises to physically helping him/her complete a difficult routine.
• Monitors the resident's environment in order to identify any needs or barriers that might negatively impact the resident's therapy and recovery. Observes and makes recommendations for the necessary accommodations to the occupational therapist and enacts those recommendations.
• Provides resident information needed for the resident assessment instrument according to facility policy such as functional abilities, functional status, range of motion, self-care activities, occupational therapy minutes and distinct calendar days, etc. during the defined observation period(s) as assigned by the occupational therapist or rehabilitation director.
• Participates in staff meetings, case conferences, business development meetings, and customer service programs as required to ensure the facility meets its goals and obligations to the community. Delivers a high level of customer service to all internal and external customers.

Shift: 40 hours a week/Days

Specialty Type: Rehabilitation Therapy

Sub Specialties: COTA (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant)

General Certifications: N/A