Occupational Therapist (HBPC)

Occupational Therapist

The Occupational Therapist at this grade level practices independently and is responsible for the assessment of functional and occupational roles using standardized tools. The OT at this grade level serve as OT practitioners in a career developmental position progressively expanding their ability to provide assessment and treatment interventions for a wide range of human function systems. The entry level therapist has a basic foundation of OT and generally practices independently and receive guidance from more experienced therapists. Develops an understanding of the theories of treatment in occupational therapy and their proper application through the use of activity analysis, behavioral intervention, frame of references, and therapeutic procedures.

Serves as the HBPC Occupational Therapist and is responsible for providing comprehensive evaluation for all OT needs of HBPC and PMRS patients. This may require an: assessment of mentation relative to successful therapy participation, neuromuscular status, respiratory status, and functional capabilities. Evaluation requires an understanding of all basic underlying medical conditions and past orthopedic, cardiac, or neurological problems. Frequency, duration, and discharge planning will be addressed. Maintains and submits documentation relative to patient visits in the electronic health record.

Determines attainable goals for each patient and designs the initial treatment plan. Modifications are made as the patient progresses and goals are met. Provides OT to acutely and chronically ill patients requiring ongoing assessment and frequent treatment modifications. Recommends equipment the patient will need for optimal functioning in their home environment. Attends conferences, workshops, and other continuing education programs to gain insight into therapeutic and motivational patient strategies. Attendees are expected to disseminate this learned information to appropriate staff via report; in-service or case study presentation. Provides formal and informal Nursing and support staff education including, but not limited to, proper utilization of ambulation aids, proper wheelchair seating, activities of daily living status, and range of motion. Communicate patient progress and proposed OT interventions to facilitate that progress via electronic notes, phone, or staff meetings. Is an active participant in weekly interdisciplinary HBPC team meetings. This involves providing up to-date assessments and progress toward functional goals. Assesses patient/family educational needs, abilities, and barriers to learning. From this information, the Occupational Therapist establishes appropriate educational agendas. The therapist instructs the patient and/or caregiver in therapeutic exercises, living environment safety, strategies to enhance activities of daily living (ADL) status, work simplification, and the appropriate utilization of durable medical equipment or prosthetics and related topics. Assists during emergency situations including initiating and/or assisting with basic life support/ CPR. Demonstrates Patient Centered Care (PCC) through the use of effective communication with patients, families, visitors, and members of the interdisciplinary team, including the patient in mutual goal setting, and providing patient advocacy when appropriate. Visibly demonstrates the ICARE (Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, Excellence) Core Values in interactions with Veterans, staff, and other stakeholders. Additional duties as assigned.

Work Schedule: Monday- Friday 8:00am-4:30PM

Telework: Not available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 10251F, 10043F, 10044F

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized

PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO): Not authorized