Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Position Summary

Under the supervision of a registered occupational therapist, provides occupational therapy tests and procedures in caring for neonatal through geriatric patients. Ensures all actions taken in carrying out responsibilities support patient centered care.

Position Responsibilities

Unit Specific Position Responsibilities

Provides in-service education and community education within scope of knowledge base.

Assists in the implementation of quality improvement programs.

Participates in the development of service operations and policies and procedures.

Attends department meetings or service related meetings as assigned.

Complies with established policies and standards of Mary Greeley Medical Center.

Performs occupational therapy tests and treatments as established in the treatment plan by a registered occupational therapist.

Provides patient, family/significant other and patient care team education.

Collaborates with other health care team members in coordinating overall patient care program.

Monitor's patient's response to treatment and modifies treatment during sessions as indicated in collaboration with OTR.

Implements and modifies treatment plans under OTR supervision

Reports observations and patient's responses to service to OTR and other teams member's as directed.

Recommends to OTR the termination of services.

Complies with the Iowa Administrative Rules for Licensure of Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants [Chapter 206.8(5)] ensuring OT participation in treatment including direct face-to-face patient contact every twelfth visit or 60 calendar days, whichever comes first, for all patients regardless of setting and must document each visit.

Supervises OT aides and volunteers, Level I and II OTA Fieldwork students.

Documents in every chart the name of the supervising Occupational Therapist.

Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience

Required Qualifications (Including any licensure, certification, education):

Graduation from an AOTA approved occupational therapy assistant education program.

Successful completion of the certification process for Occupational Therapy Assistant.

Possession of license as an Occupational Therapy Assistant issued by the Iowa Board of Physical and Occupational Therapy.

Mandatory Reporter training within 90 days of hire and must maintain throughout employment.

Organizational Requirements:

Maintain stroke education per regulatory requirements.

Basic Life Support (BLS) training, or within 90 days of hire, and must maintain throughout employment.

Preferred Qualifications:

None Specified

Required Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

Knowledge of occupational therapy theory, anatomy, kinesiology, physiology, exercise physiology, human development, learning and human behavior.

Knowledge of occupational therapy equipment, counseling techniques, and medical record and report preparation and maintenance.

Skill in providing professional occupational therapy services and treatments including the use of good communication techniques, teaching precepts and complex problem-solving.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

None Specified