Join a dedicated healthcare team providing compassionate occupational therapy services in a regional setting within the Midwest. As a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), you will deliver direct patient care under the guidance of an Occupational Therapist, performing assessments and interventions as prescribed by physicians. Your role is vital in supporting patients' recovery and enhancing their quality of life through personalized care plans.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct accurate patient assessments and collaborate closely with Occupational Therapists to implement effective interventions.
• Coordinate care regularly with your supervising Occupational Therapist, adapting to any changes in patient condition promptly.
• Follow established care plans and participate actively in interdisciplinary care planning meetings.
• Report any changes in patient status to the Case Manager RN, Occupational Therapist, and physicians as appropriate.
• Deliver cost-effective therapy services, managing patient visits and medical supplies efficiently.
• Provide patient and caregiver education tailored to individual care plans and evaluate the effectiveness of these educational efforts.
• Complete all required documentation within designated timeframes and manage daily tasks to meet productivity goals.

Education

Graduation from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program is required.

Experience

At least one year of experience in a JCAHO-accredited hospital setting is necessary. Experience in an acute rehabilitation facility or equivalent, serving adult patients, is also required. Preference will be given to candidates with six months of home care experience. Computer proficiency is preferred.

Certifications and Licenses

• Current certification from the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
• Valid Occupational Therapy Assistant license in the relevant state.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association.
• Current driver’s license and automobile liability insurance declaration.

Mental and Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and navigate stairs.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written, with good visual acuity.
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational abilities.
• Capability to lift, transfer, and move patients weighing between 10 and over 200 pounds.
• Safe operation of a motor vehicle is required.

Working Conditions

Frequent exposure to communicable diseases, infectious materials, and potentially hostile individuals. Work involves handling sharps and biohazardous materials and exposure to varying environmental conditions across community settings.