Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

An Occupational Therapist (OT) is responsible for the assessment of referred patients that require rehabilitation services which includes: providing direct patient care to assess their medical condition, functional capabilities, limitations and restrictions and potential for rehabilitation. Also, the OT will establish and administer a treatment program with specific goals determined according to the patient's capacity and tolerance under the direction of a physician. In addition, the OT must set realistic and achievable goals for their patients, document and record the patient's condition and educate patients and families in an appropriate occupational therapy method.

Essential Functions

• Optimizes the functionality and skills of patients by providing, directing and/or overseeing therapy in the following: screening of all residents, assessing and treating all patients who might benefit from therapy as referred by state-approved referral source.
• Adheres to Minimum Data Set (MDS) procedures and effective care planning.
• Thoroughly document progress toward identified objectives and communicating patient status and needs to the patient, family, and other involved professionals.
• Refers patients for treatment to Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA), where appropriate.
• Provides consultation and clinical supervision to COTAs in the facility.
• Directs COTA(s) and Rehab Aide(s) in skilled tasks during group and individual treatment in a manner that promotes efficient and effective utilization of resources and facilitate the ongoing development of clinical skills in accordance with State Practice Acts, Omnibus Reconciliation Act (OBRA).
• Build a strong rehabilitation practice within each facility by performing or directing and supervising occupational therapy staff in the following activities: establishing and maintaining courteous and helpful interaction patterns with staff, patients, and families which reflect sensitivity to individual needs and a problem-solving approach; actively integrating therapy's role into facility and interdisciplinary treatment team.
• Contribute to facility patient care, utilization review, case management, administrative staff/department head meetings, and family conference activities/communications.
• Ensures punctuality and regular attendance for assigned shifts.

Other Functions

• Provides skilled occupational therapy services / interventions in accordance with physician orders.
• Assesses patient needs, plans for, evaluates and modifies care to meet goals of occupational therapy interventions.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Ability to communicate effective treatments and procedures to residents, families, and nursing facility.
• Ability to maintain patient/resident confidentiality.

Requirements

Education:

Must have graduated from an accredited school of occupational therapy.

Licenses/Certification:

Current state license as an Occupational Therapist.

Current CPR certification.

Experience:

Six months experience in a long term care environment preferred.