Occupational Therapist

Job Summary: Responsible for evaluation, planning, directing and administering occupational therapy modalities of treatment as prescribe by a licensed physician. Administers treatments and physical agents as prescribed by a referring physician in an effort to restore function and prevent disability following injury, disease or physical disability. Assists patients to reach their maximum performance and level of functioning, while learning to live within the limits of their capabilities. The staff therapist coordinates, delegates and supervises responsibilities assigned to supportive staff (COTA, Rehab Aide, CNA, etc.). The staff therapist participates in operational aspects of the department, maintains performance improvement activities within the department and participates in CQI activities. Provides input in formulating budget, assists in evaluating department performance versus budget controls and takes appropriate action to remain in budget guidelines. Ensures that patient changes are accurate and entered on a timely basis. Participates in all infection control, departmental equipment training, organizational safety and fire safety programs.

Demonstrates Competency in the Following Areas:

• Responsible for direction of the occupational therapy department certified staff, including occupational therapy assistants, rehab aides, and restorative CNAs.
• Ability to observe and evaluate treatment effect, recommends change to physician and appropriate referrals as needed.
• Ability to perform an appropriate assessment on all patients as related to the therapy requested and provided, reassessments as per policy and treatment based upon needs identified by assessments.
• Formulates a teaching plan based upon identified learning needs and evaluates effectiveness of learning, family is included in teaching as appropriate.
• Demonstrates knowledge of occupational therapy modalities.
• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic and religious/spiritual needs of patients and family.
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Maintains department cleanliness and safety.
• Interacts professionally with patient/family and involves them in the formation of the plan of care.
• Communicates appropriately and clearly to physicians, staff and administrative team.
• Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients’ needs are met and hospital policy is followed.
• Maintains records pertinent to personnel and operation of the department.
• Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.
• Maintains a good working relationship both within the department and with other departments.
• Consults other departments as appropriate to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities.
• Participates in performance improvement activities for department and organizational CQI activities.
• Documentation meets current standards and policies.
• Assists in ordering supplies.
• Assists in evaluation of certified staff.
• Participates in educational staff performance improvement in-services. Assists with orientation and in-service training for certified departmental staff members, participates in guidance and educational programs. Completes supervision of and collaborates with therapists on supervision of students and volunteers