Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (Outpatient/Inpatient) works under the supervision of leadership and treats patients in a variety of modalities, educate the family/patient, and assures continuity of treatment. Responsible for all necessary documentation as required by accepted medical guidelines.

• Provides direct occupational therapy according to directions of registered occupational therapist and in accordance with the established plan of care.
• Participates in the ongoing evaluation of patient’s functional status (muscle function, endurance, visual coordination, written and verbal communication skills, self-care ability, work capacity, etc.) as delegated by the registered occupational therapist.
• Follows treatment program and goals for improved patient function as established by the registered occupational therapist. Documents patient’s response to treatment plan and progress toward established goals in accordance with organization policy.
• Provides patient/family education in accordance to plan of care.
• Communicates with occupational therapist, and other interdisciplinary team members to collaborate the care of the patient.
• Maintains necessary records which will be incorporated into the patient’s clinical record.
• Participates in staff meetings, family conferences and interdisciplinary team meetings, as appropriate.
• Participates in continual process improvement and organization in-service education programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education

• Graduate of an Occupational Therapy Assistant curriculum - Required

Work Experience

Licenses and Certifications

• Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - Current certification and licenses required by state law within the practicing state - Required within 60 Days
• Basic Life Support (BLS) - Required within 90 Days

Travel Requirements

• Must be able to travel between various system facilities and off-site locations as needed. - Required

Skills and Abilities

Essential Technical/Motor Skills

• Fine motor skills

Interpersonal Skills

• Ability to interact with all patients, staff and providers.
• Demonstrates excellent observation, verbal and written communication skills.

Essential Physical Requirements

• Moving, standing, walking, bending, pushing, balancing, reaching, lifting, kneeling, crouching, stooping, pulling, restraining – all involved with direct patient care.

Essential Mental Abilities

• Explaining, forecasting, organizational skills and time management.

Essential Sensory Requirements

• Visual, hearing and feeling skills.

Exposure to Hazards

• Blood and body fluids, disinfectants, topical anesthetics and extreme heat.

Other Skills and Abilities