Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist provides skilled Occupational Therapy service on an intermittent basis to clients in their homes, in accordance with the physician's orders.

Assists the physician in evaluating the client's level of function by applying diagnostic and prognostic procedures. Conducts initial and ongoing comprehensive assessments of the client's needs including Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS) assessments. Evaluates the client's significant other(s) and the home situation to determine the instructions that will be required; the type of family assistance that will be available in caring for the client; and, other Agency and community services that will be required. Ensures that the physician's orders are appropriate and discusses necessary changes. Assists in development and implementation of the interdisciplinary client care plan to include Occupational Therapy in consultation with the physician. Guides and instructs the client in prescribed therapeutic self-care methods as well as creative activities that are directed toward improving independence and physical and mental functioning. Instructs client in care and use of wheelchairs, braces, splints, and prosthetic and orthotic devices. Teaches, supervises and counsels the family and client in the total Occupational Therapy program and any related problems that the client may have at home. Establishes goals based on the client's current level of functioning and potential for improvement; performs re-evaluations as indicated. Makes arrangements for outpatient services when procedures that cannot be given in the home are required. Evaluates the effectiveness of occupational therapy intervention and updates the client care plan as needed. Prepares clinical/progress notes on the day of the visit and enters note into the EMR within required timeframe (24 hrs. for non-Oasis visits and 48 hrs. for Oasis visits). Communicates with the physician on a regular basis regarding client's status and obtains additional orders, if necessary. Communicates with other team members and, when appropriate, instructs them in Occupational Therapy techniques that they may use while working with the client. Supervises the home health aide every two weeks when Occupational Therapy is the only professional discipline involved in the client's care. Supervises the Occupational Therapy Assistant at least once monthly. Participates in Agency activities, in-services and meetings, when appropriate. Confirms, on a weekly basis, the scheduling of visits with the Director of Nursing in order to coordinate Agency visits. Participates with the staff, the client, and the physician in discharge activities and completes an Occupational Therapy Discharge Summary. Assumes responsibility for self-development by continually striving to improve his/her health care knowledge through educational programs, attendance at workshops and conferences, active participation in professional and related organizations and individual research and reading.

Is knowledgeable of the Agency's organization, functions, and services.

Complies with Agency dress code policy.

Maintains efficient flow of Agency work by reporting to work at assigned or scheduled times; follows procedures for notification of absence or time off requests.

Maintains current TB testing (refer to Health Screening Policy).