Occupational Therapist Assistant- Prn

Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Job Description

I. Purpose and Overall Duties Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) assists the Occupational Therapist in providing occupational therapy services in a long-term care or related setting. The role supports patient rehabilitation by implementing treatment plans to improve mobility, strength, balance, and functional independence.

II. Essential Job Functions

A. Patient Care Carry out treatment plans established by the Occupational Therapist for individual or group therapy

Assist patients in improving mobility, strength, balance, coordination, and endurance

Provide gait training, transfer training, and therapeutic exercise programs

Assist patients with the use of assistive devices such as walkers, canes, or wheelchairs

Educate patients and caregivers on prescribed exercises and safety techniques

B. Documentation / Logistics / Patient Satisfaction Complete all required clinical documentation accurately and timely in accordance with Medicare, regulatory, and company guidelines

Utilize electronic documentation systems effectively

Assist with preparation and maintenance of therapy equipment and treatment areas

Support accurate recordkeeping and reporting

Contribute to patient satisfaction and quality outcomes while meeting established productivity standards

C. Collaboration / Supervision Communicate patient progress and observations to the supervising Occupational Therapist Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members regarding patient care plans

Participate in team meetings as required

D. Professional Development Maintain compliance with state licensure and regulatory requirements

Participate in continuing education and training

Support evidence-based practice in the clinical setting III. General Skills Required Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills

Effective communication (verbal and written)
Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities

Time management and organizational skills

Active listening and adaptability

Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment IV. Minimum Experience, Education, and Licensure Associate’s Degree from an accredited Occupational Therapist Assistant program

Current state licensure as a Occupational Therapist Assistant One (1) year of experience preferred

V. Essential Physical Demands Ability to assist patients with mobility, transfers, and ambulation using appropriate techniques and assistive devices

Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the workday

Frequent physical interaction with patients, including supporting or guiding movement during therapy

Occasional bending, reaching, or positioning of patients during treatment

Ability to use proper body mechanics in accordance with safety standards VI. Work Environment Long-term care or clinical setting

Ability to travel to various locations where patients are located, including long-term care, short-term care, and private homes. This work will involve ability to enter and access buildings, work with patient in their existing space. Varying environmental conditions may be encountered while traveling.

Indoor environment with occasional travel between patient areas or facilities as neededVII. Additional Information The items listed above cover the essential duties and requirements of this position. This job description shall not be construed as a complete listing of all miscellaneous, incidental, or similar duties that may be required as part of this job. This job description and job conditions are subject to change as needed in accordance with company or client requirements.

VIII. Reasonable Accommodation Statement Employees are expected to be able to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this position with or without reasonable accommodation. If an…