Occupational Therapist

Job TitleOccupational TherapistDutiesFollowing referral/consult from a physician or other approved provider, reviews the medical record and independently evaluates each patient to determine functional deficits and the best method to accomplish rehabilitation goals.Evaluations include medical history, results and interpretation of appropriate functional tests and measurements such as: activities of daily living, IADL's, range of motion, muscle strength, sensory deficits, coordination, pain, cognitive, visual perceptual, etc. Utilizes standard and non-standard methods in the evaluation and interpretation of a wide variety of physical and cognitive functional levels. Tests are frequently complex and may need to be adapted because of multiple physical disabilities or medical conditions. Utilizes standard outcomes measurement in assessing patients and other in/outpatients as indicated.Patient Treatment: Provides group and individual treatments that are occupation based; promotes the Veterans' strengths and abilities while adapting for limitations; and develops skills that are within the individual's potential. After initial evaluation of patient, formulates progressive treatment plans and goals, and is responsible for implementation, modification, and documentation of the treatments. Independently formulates, selects, and provides plans of care for direct occupational therapy interventions and procedures with varying degrees of complexity based on assessments, the patient goals, and team goals to enhance safety, wellness, and performance in ADL, instrumental IADL, education, work, play, leisure, and social participation.Practice independently and is responsible for comprehensive assessment of functional and occupational roles using standardized and non-standardized evaluation tools.Provide direct occupational therapy interventions and procedures with varying degrees of complexity to enhance safety, wellness, and performance in ADL, instrumental IADL, education, work, play, leisure, and social participation.Applies recognized Occupational therapy treatment procedures correctly, safely, and modifies these techniques in such a manner as not to interfere with any traction devices, surgical drains, catheters, immobilizing appliances, respiratory aides, or monitoring devices.On an on-going basis, in response to the patient's reaction to treatment, independently adapts and modifies treatment programs, to better meet short-term and long-term goals.Recognizes adverse reaction to treatment, significantly altered physical or mental status of patients, and reports to appropriate medical authority.Documents initial findings, treatment goals, equipment recommendations, treatment provided, patient progress, patient/family education, and discharge summaryin patient's medical record in accordance with MEDVAMC, RCL policies and CARF and TJC standards.Develops appropriate home program for patient, as needed, prior to discharge. As indicated, instructs family or care provider in ways to assist patient to carry out the program.Demonstrate a full professional understanding of the theories of treatment in occupational therapy and their proper application using activity analysis, behavioral intervention, frame of reference, and therapeutic procedures.Follows appropriate guidelines and safety measures in completing home visits, community outings, and associated travel.May be given assignments in any area where advanced specialized knowledge is not required on a recurring basis due to the patient population served and the complexity of the facility and/or treatment area.Refer patients for community resources as needed.Collaborates and communicates orally and in writing with all internal and external stakeholders. Participates in team conferences, rounds, discharge planning meetings, specialty clinics, and other assigned medical meetings.Consults with physicians, other therapists and medical personnel, the patient, and as indicated the family and/or caregiver, to maximize benefit of the patient's therapy program.Practices appropriate infection control procedures, personal safety, patient safety, and treatment precautions pertinent to patient's condition or disease process, the specific treatment technique or procedure being utilized, and location of patient encounter.Respects and protects patient privacy.Manages time to allow for unforeseen incidents or interruptions in planned program. Flexible in treatment program; easily adapts to share in over-all section treatment program, as needed. Assists in coverage for absent staff members, to ensure continuity of quality patient care.