CERTIFIED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT at Forrest General Hospital – Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Job Summary:

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), under the direction of the Registered Occupational Therapist, implements designated treatment plans, provides objective feedback on patient performance and assists in the development enhancement of the therapeutic environment. Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served; also demonstrates knowledge of the principles of growth and development and possesses the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his/her age specific needs, and to provide the care needed. Perform other job duties as assigned. May work in multiple settings such as rehab, acute care, etc.

Performance Expectations:

Performance Expectations that are job specific will be covered during your department orientation. You will be assessed for your competency of these expectations during your first 90 days of employment

• Demonstrate the ability to tolerate physically demanding tasks of moving equipment and patients utilizing safety measures for both yourself and/or patients per the physical/environmental demands specified below.
• Demonstrates proper, secure documentation in the Electronic Medical Record
• Demonstrates the ability to use critical thinking with patient care treatment planning
• Demonstrates understanding of Ultrasound, Iontophoresis, Moist Heat, Paraffin, Electrical Stimulation and other modalities commonly used as they apply to each area of practice and utilizing age-specific patient care indicators
• Appropriately identifies learning needs of patient or family members
• Works as a team member to assist patient/family at all points of entry into the therapy care system: daily schedule, evaluation/treatment, etc

Qualifications:

Education/Skills

Graduate of an approved Occupational Therapy Assistant program. Therapists and Therapy Assistants will have a minimum of 2 hours of stroke education annually.

Work Experience:

May be a recent graduate.

Certification/Licensure-DUE UPON HIRE

• Permanent License as a Occupational Therapist Assistant from the Mississippi State Board of Occupational Therapy.

• Valid Drivers License with proof of automobile insurance.

Additional Certification/Licensure - Obtained based on required timeframe below

Basic Life Support

Within 30 Days of Employment

Required

Mental Demands:

Must be able to follow instructions from the occupational therapist and the department heads.

Must be congenially cooperative with co-workers and patients.