What are the responsibilities and job description for the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - Hand Therapy position at HOPCo?
Key Responsibilities:
- Hand Therapy & Rehabilitation:
- Assist in the implementation of hand therapy treatment plans developed by the supervising OT.
- Perform therapeutic exercises and modalities aimed at restoring strength, flexibility, and mobility in the hand, wrist, and upper extremity.
- Provide education and training to patients on adaptive techniques, assistive devices, and activities to promote functional use of the hands and upper extremities.
- Monitor patient progress and provide feedback to the OT regarding treatment effectiveness and any changes in condition.
- Splinting & Orthotic Fabrication:
- Assist in the creation and application of custom splints and orthotics for patients, as prescribed by the OT.
- Educate patients on the proper use and care of splints/orthotics.
- Patient Education & Home Exercise Programs:
- Teach patients home exercise routines to improve hand function, strength, and range of motion.
- Provide information on ergonomics, body mechanics, and injury prevention for hand and upper extremity issues.
- Documentation & Reporting:
- Maintain accurate and timely patient records, documenting therapy activities, progress, and any observations that may impact treatment.
- Assist in preparing detailed reports for the OT and other healthcare professionals involved in patient care.
- Ensure adherence to all healthcare regulations and confidentiality requirements (HIPAA).
- Collaboration & Communication:
- Work closely with the OT and other members of the multidisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive care and treatment planning.
- Communicate effectively with patients and their families to ensure understanding of treatment goals and progress.
- Participate in patient care meetings and contribute insights for treatment planning and evaluation.
- Therapy Equipment & Clinic Maintenance:
- Set up, clean, and maintain therapy equipment and tools used in hand therapy sessions.
- Ensure that all splinting materials and therapy tools are organized, sanitized, and in proper working condition.
Qualifications:
- Education & Certification:
- Associate's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
- Current certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
- Current state licensure in State of Florida as a COTA.
- Certification or specialized training in hand therapy is a plus (e.g., Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) or coursework in upper extremity rehabilitation).
- Experience:
- Prior experience in hand therapy or a clinical setting working with upper extremity injuries and conditions is preferred.
- Experience with splinting techniques and upper extremity rehabilitation is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with common hand and wrist conditions such as fractures, tendon injuries, arthritis, and post-surgical rehabilitation is beneficial.
- Skills & Abilities:
- Strong knowledge of hand therapy techniques, splinting, and upper extremity rehabilitation.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a healthcare team.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with patients, caregivers, and coworkers.
- Attention to detail in documenting patient progress and adhering to treatment protocols.
- Compassionate, patient-centered approach to care.
- Organizational skills to manage patient appointments, therapy schedules, and treatment documentation.
Physical Demands:
- Ability to assist patients with mobility and perform manual therapy techniques.
- Must be able to handle physically demanding tasks, including lifting and positioning patients, as well as assisting with exercises.
- Ability to work with fine motor activities and provide hands-on support to patients.
