Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)-PRN

Title of Job:                Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Status/FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Director of Physical Therapy

Location: Mason District Hospital – Rehabilitation Services Department

Date: March 2025

Primary Function:

The Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist to provide therapeutic interventions that assist patients in regaining independence and improving functional performance in daily living activities. The COTA supports rehabilitation efforts for patients across the lifespan and care settings, including inpatient, outpatient, home health, and early intervention. Responsibilities include implementing treatment plans, documenting progress, educating patients and families, and collaborating with the interdisciplinary team to ensure high-quality, patient-centered care.

Responsibilities:

1. Carry out occupational therapy interventions as directed by the Occupational Therapist, using manual and functional exercises, therapeutic activities, and assistive devices to improve patients’ physical, cognitive, and emotional function.
2. Instruct patients, caregivers, and families on therapeutic exercises, adaptive strategies, and use of equipment to support continued care and safety at home.
3. Maintain timely and accurate clinical records using approved formats (e.g., SOAP notes), including progress reports and treatment updates that meet professional, legal, and hospital standards.
4. Communicate effectively with Occupational Therapists, nursing staff, and other healthcare team members to report patient responses, progress, and recommendations.
5. Educate and support home health aides, nursing staff, and other healthcare providers in components of therapy programs relevant to patient care.
6. Safely and effectively utilize therapy equipment and physical agent modalities such as heat, cold, paraffin, massage, water, and electrical stimulation to enhance outcomes.
7. Demonstrate sound judgment, confidentiality, reliability, and flexibility; adhere to hospital policies regarding dress code, attendance, ethics, and professional communication.
8. Participate in departmental performance improvement initiatives, assist with audits or quality checks, and maintain knowledge of current best practices.
9. Assist in the orientation and training of new staff or students as appropriate and contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment.
10. Adjust to changes in patient volume and treatment plans; ensure patient safety and compliance with infection control, emergency procedures, and safety protocols.
11. Maintain professionalism in all patient and staff interactions, embodying the values of the Rehabilitation Services Department.
12. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

1. Licensed as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant by the State of Illinois or eligible for licensure as a new graduate.
2. Experience working with diverse patient populations preferred (pediatric, adult, geriatric).
3. Demonstrated professionalism, independence, and teamwork.
4. Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
5. Proficient in documentation, computer systems, and therapy-related equipment.
6. Must hold current CPR certification.
7. Valid Illinois driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance required for applicable care settings.

Physical Demands / Work Environment:

1. Ability to lift/push/pull up to 75 lbs. unassisted; assist with patient transfers up to 250 lbs.
2. 75% of shift spent standing, walking, and moving throughout the department
3. Frequent bending, stooping, squatting, twisting, overhead reaching, and use of hands for palpation and therapeutic interventions
4. Requires clear speech, reading, hearing, and visual acuity (including near vision and color distinction)
5. Must be able to concentrate on moderate to fine detail for extended periods with interruptions
6. Primarily indoor setting with occasional outdoor activity
7. Safe, climate-controlled environment; occasional exposure to bodily fluids or treatment-related odors
8. Must be able to drive safely to patient homes if providing home health services