General Purpose
The Staff Occupational Therapist evaluates and treats patients, communicates with families, physicians and other health team members and maintains documentation of services in the medical records. Conducts in-services and training for facility staff on an ongoing basis.
Essential Duties
- Evaluate patients within twenty-four (24) hours, or 1 business day of physician referral. If unable to complete evaluation in 24 hours, documentation in medical record clearly defines cause for delay.
- Develop effective treatment plan and obtain approval for services from referring physician.
- Treat patients per the physician treatment plan.
- Assist nursing department with training of Restorative Aides.
- Supervise Occupational Therapy Assistants in direct patient care and patient related activities, following state practice act.
- Communicate with supervisor and other health team members regarding patient progress, problem and plans.
- Participate in Patient Care Conferences, Utilization Review meetings and Rehabilitation Conferences as needed.
- Participate in in-services training program for other staff in the facility.
- Record evaluations, daily treatment notes, weekly progress notes, recertification documentation, per Occupational Therapy Board State Practice Act and governmental and third party payer requirements.
- Record treatment changes per policy and procedures.
- Instruct patient's families or nursing staff in maintenance program and caregiver training in preparation for discharge from therapy services.
- Participate in discharge planning.
- Recommend and facilitate the ordering of necessary durable medical equipment for patients to facilitate independence in mobility; i.e., braces, walkers, canes, elevated toilet seats and grab bars.
- Report any problems with department equipment so that it is maintained in good working order.
- Ability to relate positively, effectively, and appropriately with patients/residents, families, staff and professional colleagues.