Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - Per Diem

Description: Position Overview: A certified occupational therapy assistant, or COTA, supports patient well-being, rehabilitation, and recovery by providing direct support to an occupational therapist. The COTA provides unique therapeutic services to enhance the goals and objectives of eligible patients (within the parameters of training and expertise) designed and established by the Occupational Therapist. This individual helps patients with physical, mental, emotional, or social limitations to improve their quality of life and independence. Essential functions: In collaboration with the Occupational Therapist and the multi-disciplinary team, the COTA evaluates a patient's health; develops the treatment plan; implements the occupational therapy treatment plan; monitors the patients’ progress; and operates the therapeutic equipment in a safe and clinically appropriate manner. Fulfill all job functions of a staff Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant within scope of practice. Responsible for documentation of these treatments, recording patient status, treatment response, changes noted and patient/family education. Assists the Occupational Therapist in overall assessment of the patient. Assists in the implementation of patient treatment plan and progress. Must be able to operate in the area of practice; apply indications and contraindications according to patient diagnosis and standard operating procedures. Teaching and mentoring staff, patients, families and students. Complying with federal, state, and local certification requirements. Administrative and Organizational Duties: Has a working knowledge of job duties and departmental policies and procedures. Incorporates policies and procedures into the daily routine, referring to policies and procedures manual as necessary. Makes recommendations for changes. Independently organizes a schedule that reflects patient care priorities and facility needs and responsibilities. Carries a caseload that reflects the facilities productivity standards. Uses appropriate written communication. Participates in departmental administration. Participates in quality improvement programs. Ensures that equipment is in working condition and meets departmental standards prior to patient’s treatment. Reports defective equipment to supervisor promptly. Uses facility equipment and supplies in a cost-effective and respectful manner. Maintains a clean work environment. Professional Behavior: Identifies own learning needs and seeks out educational experiences to meet those needs. Demonstrates appropriate verbal communication. Follows directions given by Occupational Therapist and/or other supervisors and asks questions at an appropriate time and place. Is receptive to constructive feedback regarding performance. Uses appropriate channels of communication and assumes responsibility for securing a satisfactory response. Disposition, temperament and reactions are consistent with the philosophy that the patient’s welfare is the prime objective. A team player that demonstrates a willingness to meet departmental needs, weekend rotation, coverage and schedule changes and site changes when census demands. Actively participates in finding solutions to identified problems. Requirements: Performance Skills: Commitment to providing high quality, evidence-based health care services Attention to detail Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills Ability to problem solve Customer service focus Willingness to learn Situation-appropriate sense of urgency, prioritization skills, follow through and sense of task ownership Education/Experience Required: Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program. Valid Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant license in the state(s) where services are rendered. Interest in working with all abilities including the intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) population Must possess a valid and current driver license and auto insurance. Current BLS and/or CPR certification from the American Heart Association or American Red Cross.