The Occupational Therapist (OT) at Serenity Oaks IRF evaluates patients' functional performance in activities of daily living, cognitive function, and upper extremity status, and delivers evidence-based occupational therapy intervention to maximize independence and quality of life. The OT collaborates actively with the IDT to develop and implement individualized care plans, completes FIM self-care scoring, and prepares patients and families for successful discharge. This role requires supervision of COTAs and rehab aides and a strong commitment to person-centered, occupation-based rehabilitation practice. 2.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

Perform comprehensive occupational therapy evaluations including ADL performance, IADL ability, cognition, upper extremity function, and home environment assessment. Establish measurable, occupation-based therapy goals and develop individualized OT plans of care. Deliver evidence-based OT interventions including ADL retraining, cognitive rehabilitation, upper extremity exercise, and adaptive equipment training. Complete and document FIM self-care scores within required timeframes in compliance with CMS and IRF-PAI requirements. Supervise COTAs and rehab aides in the delivery of occupational therapy services within their scope of practice. Participate actively in weekly IDT meetings; communicate OT findings, goal attainment, and discharge planning needs. Provide patient and family education on adaptive techniques, equipment use, home modification recommendations, and caregiver training. Recommend, order, and train patients in the use of adaptive equipment and assistive technology. Maintain accurate and timely documentation of evaluations, treatment notes, progress reports, and discharge summaries in the EHR. Conduct home assessments or recommend home modifications for safe discharge as clinically indicated. Collaborate with nursing on self-care strategies, adaptive equipment use, and ADL training consistency. Contribute to the IRF-PAI process in collaboration with the Rehabilitation Program Director. Participate in QAPI activities and OT department quality improvement initiatives. Maintain continuing education and competency in evidence-based occupational therapy practice. 3.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Required:

Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) or Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) from an ACOTE-accredited program.

Required:

Successful completion of NBCOT examination (OTR/L).

Preferred:

One (1) or more years of OT experience in inpatient rehabilitation or acute care.

Preferred:

IRF, neurological, or orthopedic OT experience. 4.

LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION & REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS

Required:

Current, unrestricted Occupational Therapist license issued through the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (LSBME) — Occupational Therapy division.

Required:

Current

NBCOT OTR/L

certification (Occupational Therapist, Registered/Licensed).

Required:

Current BLS/CPR certification (AHA or Red Cross).

Preferred:

AOTA specialty certification in relevant area (e.g., Gerontology, Neurorehabilitation).

Required:

Louisiana OT license verified through LSBME prior to and throughout employment. 5.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Expert clinical knowledge in occupational therapy for stroke, TBI, SCI, orthopedic, and medically complex populations. Proficiency in FIM self-care scoring and IRF-PAI documentation. Knowledge of ADL retraining, cognitive rehabilitation frameworks, and upper extremity intervention. Ability to supervise COTAs within Louisiana OT scope of practice guidelines. Proficiency with EHR documentation in an inpatient setting. Strong IDT communication and collaboration skills. Knowledge of adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and home modification recommendations. Understanding of CMS 60% Rule and IRF admission criteria for OT-relevant diagnoses. Commitment to person-centered, occupation-based practice. Knowledge of patient/family education techniques for functional independence at discharge.

Experience:

Inpatient Rehab Hospital:

1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

Occupational Therapy License in the state of Louisiana (Required)

Work Location:

In person