Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

POSITION SUMMARY:

Assist Occupational Therapists in providing specially prescribed occupational therapy treatments for conditions affecting the hands and upper quadrant in accordance with New Mexico Practice Act guidelines.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• May assist in the development of treatment plans, the documentation of treatment progress, and the modification of specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by Occupational Therapist. 
• Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients with rehabilitative activities and exercises in their treatment plan, as prescribed by the Occupational Therapist.
• Utilize a variety of treatments and techniques to restore, improve and maintain functioning, alleviate pain, or prevent physical dysfunction in patients. 
• Confers with patients, medical practitioners, or other appropriate parties to plan, implement, or assess intervention programs.  
• Manages active patients to ensure attendance and compliance with treatment plan.
• Document care and other patient information, including history, treatment, and consultations, in accordance with HIPPA and NMOA policies.
• Observe patient during treatments to compile and evaluate data on patients’ responses and progress and report to physical therapist.
• Fit patients for orthopedic braces, prostheses and supportive devices and instruct them on proper use and care. 
• Assist with patient transport.
• Adheres to company policies as described in employment handbook, clinic policies and procedures, regulatory standards and company work rules. 
• Ensure patient service and quality standards are met including patient interaction and cleanliness of facilities. 
• Attends required meetings and participate in committees as requested.
• Maintains confidentiality of patient account and employee information in accordance with HIPAA guidelines and NMOA policy.
• Participate in plans for continuous quality improvement regarding patient care, staff development and facility advancement.
• Complies with professional, ethical and legal standards.
• Regular and reliable attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: N/A

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required.

• Knowledge of OT principles, standards and practices.
• Excellent communication and computer skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, co-workers, patients and vendors.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Effective clinical problem-solving skills.
• Must be detail oriented.
• Must maintain professional demeanor at all times.
• Must be able to prioritize assignments and follow up to ens