OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST (OT) Emmett, ID (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=1202+E+Locust+Emmett+ID+USA+83617) Apply Description Position Title:Occupational Therapist (OT) Job Type:Per diem Department:Nursing Supervisor’s Title:Nursing Manager/ Chief Nursing Officer Job Summary The Occupational Therapist (OT) in a hospital setting provides evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation to patients with a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional disabilities. Working within a multidisciplinary team, the OT helps patients restore, develop, or maintain their ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), enhance functional independence, and promote overall well-being. The role involves working with patients of all ages who have various conditions such as neurological disorders, musculoskeletal injuries, stroke, trauma, or chronic illness. Principal Functions and Responsibilities I. Assessment and Evaluation A. Conduct comprehensive evaluations of patients' physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities, identifying limitations or impairments in performing daily activities (e.g., dressing, bathing, cooking). B. Assess motor skills, strength, coordination, sensory function, cognition, and psychological status using standardized assessment tools and observation. C. Develop individualized treatment plans (ITPs) tailored to the patient’s needs, goals, and medical conditions. D. Assessments need to be completed with in 24 hours of order unless otherwise instructed. II. Treatment and Rehabilitation A. Provide direct therapeutic interventions to improve functional skills, mobility, strength, coordination, and cognitive function. B. Design and implement personalized therapeutic exercises, adaptive techniques, and the use of assistive devices to promote independence in ADLs. C. Educate patients on energy conservation, body mechanics, and strategies for improving quality of life. D. Address mental health concerns as they relate to physical disabilities (e.g., depression, anxiety related to functional loss). III. Patient and Family Education A. Instruct patients and their families on home exercises, adaptive techniques, and assistive devices to support rehabilitation and independence at home. B. Provide education on safety and fall prevention, including modifications to the home environment or daily routines to maximize patient safety. C. Help patients and families understand the patient’s conditions and collaborate to set realistic goals for recovery. IV. Interdisciplinary Collaboration A. Work closely with physicians, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, nurses, and social workers to coordinate comprehensive care and rehabilitation plans. B. Participate in regular case conferences to review patient progress and update treatment goals. C. Actively contribute to discharge planning, ensuring patients are equipped with the tools, resources, and training they need for ongoing care after hospitalization. V. Documentation and Reporting A. Maintain thorough and accurate documentation of patient evaluations, progress, treatment plans, and discharge summaries in accordance with hospital policies and regulatory requirements. B. Update patient records regularly, ensuring compliance with patient confidentiality laws and insurance requirements (e.g., HIPAA, Medicare, etc.). C. Provide clear and concise reports on patient progress to physicians, families, and other healthcare providers as needed. VI. Safety and Compliance A. Ensure the safe use of therapeutic equipment and assistive devices in clinical and home settings. B. Follow infection control protocols and hospital policies to ensure a safe and clean environment for patients and staff. C. Adhere to all applicable healthcare regulations, including patient privacy (HIPAA) and documentation standards. VII. Professional Development and Quality Improvement A. Stay current with the latest trends, techniques, and research in occupational therapy, attending continuing education and professional development courses. B. Participate in departmental and hospital-wide quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and outcomes. C. Contribute to the development of protocols and best practices for the therapy department. Requirements Qualifications I. Education A. Degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program. II. Licensure and Certification A. Current licensure as an Occupational Therapist in the state of Idaho. B. Certification by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) preferred. C. Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification required. III. Experience A. Experience in a hospital or healthcare setting is preferred, particularly in inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation. B. Knowledge and experience working with a wide range of conditions, including neurological (e.g., stroke, TBI), musculoskeletal (e.g., fractures, orthopedic surgeries), and cognitive (e.g., dementia, memory disorders). IV. Skills and Abilities A. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively educate patients, families, and healthcare teams. B. Strong clinical assessment and problem-solving abilities. C. Proficiency in using occupational therapy tools, adaptive devices, and technologies. D. Ability to develop personalized therapy programs and adjust treatments based on patient progress. E. Compassionate and patient-centered approach to care. Physical Demands A. Ability to lift and assist patients with mobility challenges, using appropriate equipment and safety protocols. B. Ability to stand, sit, and walk for extended periods, as required for patient treatment and therapy sessions. C. Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals. Work Environment This position is based in a hospital setting and may include both inpatient and outpatient care environments. The work may involve working with critically ill or injured patients, as well as those recovering from surgery or long-term illnesses. The OT may also work in various departments such as orthopedics, neurology, pediatrics, geriatrics, or swing bed, depending on the hospital’s services and needs.