Job Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our healthcare team. The ideal candidate will support occupational therapists in delivering patient-centered care across diverse settings, including inpatient, outpatient, skilled nursing facilities, and home health environments. This role requires a strong understanding of pediatric and adult therapy needs, particularly for clients with neurodevelopmental disorders, disabilities, and geriatrics. The COTA will play a vital role in implementing treatment plans, assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), and ensuring optimal patient outcomes through skilled therapy interventions.
Duties
- Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) and functional mobility to promote independence in patients of all ages.
- Implement individualized treatment plans developed by licensed occupational therapists, including therapy exercises and activities.
- Support pediatric occupational therapy programs addressing childhood developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders.
- Facilitate therapy sessions for clients with neurodevelopmental disorders, disabilities, geriatrics, and those recovering from injury or illness.
- Assist with patient transport within healthcare facilities or home environments to ensure safe mobility during therapy sessions.
- Document patient progress accurately and maintain detailed care documentation in compliance with healthcare regulations.
- Collaborate closely with healthcare professionals to adapt care plans based on patient response and progress.
- Use medical terminology appropriately when recording notes or communicating with team members.
- Perform manual handling tasks safely when assisting patients during therapy activities or transfers.
- Support care coordination efforts by communicating effectively with caregivers and clients regarding treatment goals and progress.
- Maintain a clean and safe environment conducive to therapeutic activities, adhering to safety protocols.
Skills
- Proven experience assisting with ADLs across various populations, including pediatrics, geriatrics, and individuals with disabilities.
- Acute care experience preferred; familiarity with inpatient settings enhances ability to manage complex cases.
- Knowledge of medical imaging, physiology, anatomy, and medical terminology relevant to occupational therapy practice.
- Skilled in developing and implementing care plans tailored to individual client needs, including those with childhood developmental delays or autism spectrum disorder.
- Experience working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders or disabilities; familiarity with pediatric occupational therapy is advantageous.
- Ability to perform patient transport safely within healthcare environments or home settings.
- Strong communication skills for caregiver education and client engagement; ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
- Experience working in outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, or home health settings is highly desirable.
- Competence in manual handling techniques to ensure patient safety during transfers or therapeutic activities.
- Knowledge of occupational health principles applicable across diverse clinical contexts.
This position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives through skilled occupational therapy support while working within a collaborative healthcare environment committed to excellence in patient care.
Pay: $45.00 - $50.00 per hour
Work Location: In person