Occupational Therapist

Job Description

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES : Following referral / consult from a physician or other approved provider, reviews the medical record, and independently utilizes appropriate standard measures as well as evaluation techniques pertinent to the diagnosis to determine functional deficits and establishes the individualized OT plan of care. Independently develops, implements and modifies treatment utilizing specialized interventions and strategies to achieve maximum function and independence for patients with a variety of impairments. Interprets findings and educates patients and caregivers about purpose of treatment, and patient's rights and responsibilities to improve compliance with treatment. Documents results of evaluations, patient treatment including patient / family education, and patient's response to treatment in accordance with ESH policies, CMS, and Joint Commission standards. Consults with referring providers and multidisciplinary team members.

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED : To demonstrate the ability to assess the therapeutic needs of patients as relates to abilities and deficiencies in areas which may include but are not limited to Activities of Daily Living, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, health management, rest and sleep, education, work, leisure, and social

participation.

To provide services within multiple clinical environments including forensic mental health and long- term acute care.

To utilize current occupational therapy theory, recent research and practice, demonstrates knowledge and skill in developing / modifying and implementing evidence-based protocols and procedures in Occupational Therapy services for Inpatients with a multitude of diagnoses.

To demonstrate problem solving skills for occupational therapy evaluation, interpretation, treatment planning and execution taking into consideration patient’s age, psychosocial, cultural and religious background.

To administer occupational therapy treatment including but not limited to ADL retraining, IADLs, seating and positioning, manual therapy, HEP, neuromuscular re-education, AE training, equipment modification, splinting, strengthening and endurance programming, community re-entry, trauma informed care, behavioral therapy, illness management and recovery, coping and stress management, and groups.

To administer standardized assessments including but not limited to, Allen Cognitive Level Screen (ACLS), Occupational Therapy Assessment of Performance & Supports (OTAPS), Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills (KELS), and The Barthel ADL index.

To administer physical modalities including but not limited to heat, ice, electronic stimulation,

ultrasound, and paraffin.

To assess the therapeutic equipment needs of clients, facilitate prescription of equipment and

coordinate its acquisition and the day-to-day use of such equipment.

To participate in staff conferences, rounds and clinics as required.

To participate in training of less senior Occupational Therapist, Occupational Therapy Assistants, therapy aides, clinical students and others as required.

To accurately document evaluations and Occupational therapy treatments in patient medical records.

To perform living area evaluations in a variety of settings.

To maintain current credentials to practice by participating in professional and continuing education courses as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND CAPACITIES : Considerable knowledge of principles and practices of occupational therapy; considerable knowledge of OT theory; OT practice framework and domain; considerable knowledge of physical and / or intellectual disorders; considerable interpersonal skills; considerable oral and written communication skills; skill in administering occupational therapy in its various forms; skill in instructing and supervising others in practice of occupational therapy; ability to utilize computer software; supervisory ability.

Education : Such as may have been gained through graduation from a program of Occupational Therapy which is accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Department of Education or the Council of Post-Secondary Accreditation; eligibility for membership with the American Occupational Therapy Association; and

Experience : Required at least 1 year of experience working as an Occupational Therapist in an Adult population. Must meet established requirements for licensing of occupational therapists administered by the Rhode Island Department of Health and must maintain licensure as a condition of employment. Preferred knowledge / experience working with patients severe and persistent mental illness as well as complex medical needs.