Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA), Acute

About Us

Fleming County Hospital is a 25-bed critical access hospital with a reputation for continuous quality improvement, patient-centered care, payment innovation, and professionalism. We are accredited by The Joint Commission and recently received Chest Pain Accreditation through the American College of Cardiology. People are our passion and purpose—come work where you are appreciated for who you are, not just what you can do.

Flemingsburg is a delightful town surrounded by beautiful rolling farmland, featuring three historic wooden covered bridges. The area offers a variety of recreational activities, including golf, fishing, camping, swimming, tennis, hiking, hunting, and boating, along with antique shops, folk artists, and talented craftspeople.

Why Choose Us

We believe investing in our employees is the first step to providing excellent patient care. This position includes:

• Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple levels of medical, dental, and vision coverage for full-time and part-time employees.
• Financial Protection & PTO: Life, accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance; short- and long-term disability; paid family leave; and paid time off.
• Financial & Career Growth: Tuition assistance for higher education and certifications, loan assistance, and a 401(k) retirement package with company match.
• Employee Well-being: Mental, physical, and financial wellness programs, including free gym memberships, virtual care appointments, mental health services, and discount programs.
• Professional Development: Ongoing learning and career advancement opportunities.

Position Summary

The Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) functions under the direct supervision of the Occupational Therapist and as directed by a licensed physician, responsible for a specific patient's care. The COTA provides occupational therapy modalities and treatment procedures as determined by a treatment plan established by an Occupational Therapist to restore function and prevent disability following patient illness or injury.

Responsibilities

• Under the guidance of a supervising OTR/L, acquires pertinent information and implements a comprehensive program using varied techniques and treatment activities; reviews and modifies treatment in response to changing patient needs; identifies equipment and discharge needs.
• Provides treatment to diverse diagnostic populations and completes supporting documentation according to hospital policy and State Practice Act.
• Observes treatment effects, accomplishment of short- and long-term goals, and recommends changes to the supervising OTR/L as needed.
• Communicates and collaborates with support personnel regarding treatment orders as directed by the supervising OTR/L.
• Conducts classes or group sessions (e.g., stroke, SCI, BI) as appropriate.
• Instructs caregivers and family members in home exercise programs related to the patient's functional and self-care status; discusses necessary equipment for home situations.
• Complies with department, hospital, and regulatory agency guidelines regarding ethics, legal issues, and supervisory relationships.
• Demonstrates professional accountability per AOTA Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
• Communicates effectively with team members through the continuum of care.
• Completes timely and accurate documentation of patient treatment in the medical record, including QI scoring.
• Assesses patient pain interfering with optimal function and makes appropriate interventions after consulting with the supervising OTR/L; contacts physicians as indicated.
• Protects patient confidentiality regarding medical, emotional, and social status.
• Keeps the supervising therapist informed of patient status, problem areas, and progress.
• Notifies the supervising therapist of problems for implementation of safe, effective, and timely solutions.
• Demonstrates appropriate safety measures during treatment programs.
• Provides input on the physical functioning of the department, including equipment management, space utilization, and storage.
• Assists in inventory, ordering supplies, and maintaining a safe, clean work environment.
• Assists in preparation and maintenance of the daily treatment schedule.
• Develops home programs and instructs patients as delegated by the supervising occupational therapist.
• Provides written and updated treatment/coverage programs for days off.
• Performs discharge planning under the direct supervision of the OTR/L, including prescriptions, equipment requests, and referrals.
• Reports on patient status at care conferences when necessary (attended by the supervising OTR/L).
• Assists in program development to meet regulatory agency standards (e.g., Joint Commission, CARF).
• Observes, measures, and records cardiovascular responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation.
• Plans and presents educational programs for the department, hospital, and/or community.
• Provides orientation, instruction, supervision, and/or guidance to ancillary staff, COTA students, and volunteers.
• May transport patients/equipment to/from the therapy gym.
• Uses the computer system to assist in preparation, maintenance, and printing of work lists and entering charges.
• Utilizes specialized equipment, testing procedures, and/or advanced treatment techniques with appropriate competency.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Current state licensure/certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant.
• Previous experience in patient care preferred.
• Current BLS/CPR certification.

Physical and Safety Requirements

• Good general health and ability to cope with stress.
• Full mobility and ability to participate in vigorous activity.
• Ability to clearly and effectively communicate with patients, families, peers, and other healthcare team members.
• Near vision acuity for accurate reading of equipment and recording in patient medical records.
• Physical ability to lift, support, and move patients.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions without compromising patient care.