Outpatient Pediatric Occupational Therapist

Summary

The Occupational Therapist reports directly to the Clinical Manager and/or Assistant Clinical Manager (ACM) of their respective department and may receive clinical guidance from senior staff and/or clinical specialists. The Occupational Therapist completes comprehensive examinations of body structure to determine functional impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. The Occupational Therapist establishes diagnosis and prognosis; develops an individualized plan of care; implements treatment interventions; and performs ongoing evaluations throughout the episode of care.

Responsibilities

• Communicates clearly, respectfully, and honestly with patients and/or caregivers, and colleagues
• Exhibits effective and professional verbal and non-verbal communication
• Adjusts communication and response to the level of understanding of the listener
• Demonstrates the highest level of communication and professionalism with patients, caregivers, rehabilitation staff, providers, and other health care professionals, both within the academic medical center and in the community
• Examines and evaluates patients
• Establishes diagnosis, prognosis, and individualized plans of care
• Implements treatment intervention based on plan of care, considering precautions, indications, and contradictions
• Directs and coordinates patients’ rehabilitation plan of care
• Evaluates patients’ progress and revises goals and plan of care accordingly
• Educates/Trains patients/caregivers
• Anticipates and communicates discharge/home needs and resources
• Completes documentation and charges accurately and timely, in compliance with department policy
• Completes clinical documentation reflecting eligibility/medical necessity of services in compliance with professional and regulatory standards
• Makes recommendations and referrals for additional diagnostic testing and/or services
• Consistently applies evidence-based practice to all aspects of clinical care
• Seeks additional guidance when necessary to assure safe and effective patient care
• Complies with hospital and departmental policies and guidelines
• Participates in strategic departmental quality improvement initiatives
• Provides education to other hospital departments/personnel, students, and outside agencies/schools
• Determines priorities according to departmental and patient care need
• Participates in community-based professional events
• Participates in ongoing educational activities
• Supports and promotes departmental teamwork
• Completes mandatory departmental and hospital training

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution is required.
• Master’s or Doctorate level degree in Occupational Therapy is preferred.
• State license issued by the Rhode Island Department of Health is required.
• New graduates considered. Clinical experience in program specific settings is preferred.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Fit for duty as documented by OSHA standards and program specific needs.

Independent Action

Performs independently within the department’s policies and practices. Refers specific complex problems to ACM and/or Clinical Manager when clarification of departmental policies and procedures is required. Independently sets goals for professional development. Membership and involvement in discipline specific professional organization and/or other clinically relevant organization is strongly encouraged.

Supervisory Responsibility

No direct supervision. However, pursuant to the state of Rhode Island Rules and Regulations for Licensing Occupational Therapists, a licensed Occupational Therapist shall at all times be responsible for the supervision of certified occupational therapy assistants, supportive personnel, and students to ensure the safety and welfare of patients.