Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

PRN Department:

Home Health within

Waterman Village Senior Living Community Reports To:

Clinical Manager/Director of Nursing Position:

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

PRN POSITION SUMMARY

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) provides skilled occupational therapy services to patients in their homes under the direction and supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT). The COTA assists patients in improving their ability to safely and independently perform activities of daily living and achieve goals established in the occupational therapy plan of care.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide occupational therapy treatments according to the established plan of care and under the supervision of the Occupational Therapist. Assist patients with therapeutic activities designed to improve strength, mobility, coordination, endurance, safety, and independence. Provide training and education related to activities of daily living, including dressing, bathing, grooming, toileting, meal preparation, and other functional activities. Educate patients and caregivers on prescribed exercises, adaptive equipment, home safety, and techniques to improve independence. Instruct patients in the safe use of wheelchairs, splints, braces, adaptive equipment, and other assistive devices as appropriate. Observe and document the patient's response to treatment, progress toward goals, and any changes in condition. Promptly communicate significant changes in the patient's condition, safety concerns, or other clinical concerns to the supervising OT and appropriate clinical staff. Complete accurate and timely clinical documentation in accordance with agency policy. Communicate regularly with the supervising Occupational Therapist regarding patient progress and treatment needs. Coordinate visits and schedules with the Home Health clinical team. Participate in care coordination, case conferences, staff meetings, and discharge planning as appropriate. Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA, agency policies, and applicable regulatory requirements. Follow infection-control, safety, and emergency procedures while providing care in patients' homes. Perform other duties within the COTA scope of practice as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program. Current Florida license as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Current CPR certification. Successful completion of required background screening. Ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, caregivers, and members of the interdisciplinary team. Ability to travel to and safely access patients' homes. Home health experience preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to perform the physical activities necessary to provide occupational therapy services in the home setting, including standing, walking, bending, reaching, assisting with patient mobility, and safely using occupational therapy equipment.