Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - HomeCare - CARLE

The Home Care Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) gives input into treatment plans for patients of all ages to resume or adjust activities of daily living. Collaborates with health care team and follows patient's plan of care as developed by the Occupational Therapist. Serves as a role model in the delivery of professional services and as a clinical resource for staff and students. Hours may vary depending upon census and program need.

• Reviews orders as received and follows patient plan of care as determined by Physician and OT.
• Educates patient and family members in a manner that overcomes barriers; matches their learning capabilities and meets fundamental needs.
• Documents through comprehensive detail about patient visit, information is sufficient that following staff can determine exactly what and how care was rendered with a clear plan for the next contact. Documents within guidelines and timeframes set by regulatory requirements and/or department policy.
• Collaboratively communicates and initiates case conferencing as necessary and documents interactions (other disciplines, MD, care coordinator, insurers, etc.).
• Documents care plans and patient/family assessments; the documentation indicates evidence of therapy knowledge, assessment skills, and critical thinking.
• Documents that assessment of pain includes presence, characteristics, and factors assciated with exacerbation of pain and reassessments are made for relief indicators.
• Anticipates and orders an appropriate quantity of supplies with sufficient lead time that patient does not run out of supplies between visits.
• Educates and documents discharge planning prior to discharge , including communication with physician, insurance source, outpatient visits and community resources are planned and arranged if applicable. Patient is provided with discharge documentation.
• Completes audits and other assigned tasks within assigned time frame.
• Assists OT by giving input regarding the evaluation of the patient's level of function by applying diagnostic and prognostic procedures as directed by the physician or podiatrist.
• Guide the patient in the use of therapeutic, creative and self-care activities for the purpose of improving function.
• Observe, record and report to the physician or podiatrist the patient's reaction to treatments and any changes in the patient's condition. Communicates this to OT and documents information in patient record.
• Instruct other health team personnel including, when appropriate, Home Health Aides and family members in certain phase of occupational therapy in which they may work with the patient.
• Be familiar with community resources and work collaboratively with social workers.
  • Assess homebound status of patients.
  • Follow occupational therapy plan of care to provide occupational therapy treatment in patient's home.
  • Communicate with patients to schedule appointment times and manage daily schedule.
  • Assess home safety and recommend equipment to improve patient's home safety.
  • Educate family/caregivers on recommended home exercise program.