Occupational Therapist

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Director of Rehabilitation Therapy Services and/or Rehab Supervisor, the Occupational Therapist plans, organizes, develops, administers, directs, and supervises Occupational Therapy treatment in accordance with current applicable federal, state, and local standards, regulations and guidelines. The individual in this position must have initiative and be innovative, and must possess a sense of responsibility, integrity and sound judgment, follow standards of proper conduct, and abide by facility policies and standards of care. This position does provide direct patient care to, adult and geriatric patients, including comprehensive assessment, treatment planning and provision of therapy. The Occupational Therapist contributes to program development, quality improvement, program assessment, and departmental policy and procedure development.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Current Occupational license from the California Board of Occupational Therapy. Two (2) years of clinical experience as an occupational therapist preferred. Demonstrates good verbal and written communication, and organization skills. Possesses and maintains current CPR Certification. Ability to communicate effectively with O.T. staff, interdisciplinary staff, visitors, patients, families and members of the community. CPR certified required within 12 months of hire.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Evaluates patient’s functional status (muscle function, endurance, visual coordination, written and verbal communication skills, self-care ability, work capacity, etc.). Evaluates home environment for hazards or barriers to more independent living. Identifies equipment needs. Participates in the development of the individualized plan of care.
• Develops treatment program and establishes goals for improved function. Communicates plan of care to referring physician and other organization professionals. Also, as necessary, will develop program for caregiver’s energy conservation.
• May teach new skills or retrain patient in once familiar daily activities that have been lost due to illness or injury, in accordance with organization policy.
• May fabricate splints and instruct patient in the use of various types of adaptive equipment to improve function.
• May train patient and family/caregiver in the use of prosthetic and/or orthotic devices.
• Maintains appropriate clinical records, progress notes, and reports to the physician any changes in the patient’s condition. Submits these records in accordance with organization policy.
• Maintains contact/communication with team members in the patient’s care to promote coordinated, efficient care.
• Attends and contributes to in-services, interdisciplinary group meetings, and other meetings as required by organization policy to ensure comprehensive assessments for the patients of the organization.
• Instructs and educates patient’s/family/caregiver and other team members in patient’s treatment regime.
• Participates in hospice personnel orientation program.
• Actively participates in quality assessment performance improvement teams and activities.
• Participates in discharge planning for patient.