Occupational Therapist

POSITION SUMMARY

Responsible for the evaluation, planning, directing and administering of occupational therapy modalities of treatment as prescribed by a licensed physician. Administers treatments and occupational 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 Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR) will treat each resident with kindness, dignity and respect. They will knock before entering each resident’s room. They will refer to each resident by their name. They will be courteous to families, visitors and all staff. They will maintain a positive and calm disposition. They will communicate clearly, diplomatically, and effectively when speaking to residents, family members, visitors, staff and any governmental agency personnel. They will make sound independent decisions. They will set an example of working collaboratively between multidisciplinary teams. They will demonstrate patience, initiative and willingness to assist residents that may be difficult. They will be committed to always doing the right thing.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Directs the Occupational Therapy Department certified staff, including Occupational Therapy Assistants, Occupational Therapy Aides, Occupational Therapy certification applicants and Occupational Therapy students.
• Observes and evaluates treatment affect. Recommends change to physician, if needed
• Performs an appropriate assessment on each patient, as related to the therapy requested and provided and reassessments, as per policy.
• Demonstrates knowledge and proficiency of occupational therapy modalities.
• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial needs of patients and family.
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Maintains department cleanliness and safety.
• Interacts professionally with patient/family and involves patient/family 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 the 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.
• Meets current documentation standards and policies.
• Participates in educational staff performance improvement in-services. Assists with orientation and in-service training for certified department staff members. Participates in guidance and educational programs.
• Provides evaluation of certified staff, including interviewing, hiring, evaluating and termination
• Coordinates, delegates and supervises responsibilities assigned to supportive staff (Occupational Therapy Assistants, Occupational Therapy Aides, etc.).
• Provides input in formulating budget, assists in evaluating department performance versus budget controls and takes appropriate action to remain within budget guidelines.
• Ensures that patient charges are accurate and entered on a timely basis.
• Participates in infection control, departmental equipment training and organizational safety and fire safety programs.

Every effort has been made to identify the essential functions of this position. However, it in no way states or implies these are the only duties you will be required to perform as directed by management. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or is an essential function of the position.

REQUIREMENTS

• Master’s degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program.
• Current state licensure or certification as an Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR).
• Previous experience in a skilled nursing facility or similar healthcare setting is preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Compassionate and patient-focused approach to care.

Working Conditions

May encounter frequent interruptions.

May be involved with residents, family and government agencies.

May be requested to work beyond scheduled working hours at times.

Is subject to callback during emergency conditions (e.g., severe weather, evacuation, postdisaster, etc.)

May be subjected to odors, dust, disinfectants, tobacco smoking or air contaminants.

May be exposed to infectious waste, diseases, conditions, etc., including TB and the AIDS and Hepatitis B viruses.

May be exposed to or handle hazardous chemicals.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to move intermittently throughout the day.

Working throughout the nursing areas

Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds, lifting more weight up to 100 pounds requires assistance.

Ability to read fine print on tablet, progress notes and/or medical labels.