Occupational Therapist Assistant

Definition:

The Occupational Therapist Assistant is a skilled technical provider of occupational therapy treatments and related duties as assigned and supervised by the occupational therapist.

Line of Authority:

Occupational Therapist; Director of Therapy Services, Administrator/Director of Services

Qualifications:

1. Must be a graduate of an accredited occupational therapy assistant program as certified by the American Occupational Therapy Association.
2. Must be licensed under the statutes of the state in which the assistant will be practicing as well as certified.
3. Active member of the State and National Occupational Therapy Associations preferred.

Performance Requirements:

1. Able to transfer, lift and guard patients safely with appropriate assistance.
2. Able to bend, stoop, squat and lift numerous times daily (70 – 80 lbs) in the care of patients and use of equipment.
3. Able to carry out fine motor skills with manual dexterity.
4. Mental acuity and judgment skills to adequately and safely perform job requirements.
5. Able to see and hear adequately in order to respond to auditory and visual needs and clinical indications of the patients.
6. Able to learn, absorb and apply professional training.
7. Able to speak in a clear, concise voice in order to communicate adequately.
8. Able to read, write and edit documentation.
9. Must have reliable personal transportation.

Specific Responsibilities:

1. Provides occupational therapy services as directed and supervised by the occupational therapist and ordered by the physician.
2. Assists the occupational therapist with evaluation of progress toward goals.
3. Observes records and reports to the therapist the conditions, reactions and responses related to assigned duties.
4. Maintains daily records of treatments. Documents progress notes regarding patients as directed by the therapist.
5. Assists the therapist in consulting with patients, family members and other health care professionals as appropriate.
6. Assists the occupational therapist with in-service programs and other meetings as assigned by the occupational therapist.
7. Contributes to Occupational Therapy related CQI, as requested.
8. Participates in interdisciplinary conferences to maintain continuity of patient care.
9. May serve as Advisory Board member as requested by the Administrator/Director.