Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, COTA (3482)

Position Summary:

The COTA Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant provides specialized occupational therapy services within the home health and hospice environment, delivering patient centered care that supports safety, functional independence, and quality of life. Working under the direction of a licensed Occupational Therapist, this role provides occupational therapy treatment to home health patients in accordance with individualized treatment plans and the rules and regulations of the North Dakota Occupational Therapy Practice Act. The COTA collaborates closely with the interdisciplinary care team to support consistent, coordinated care while maintaining accurate and timely clinical documentation. Through professional practice, attention to detail, and compassionate patient interaction, the position contributes to compliant, high quality therapy services across home based care settings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement the OT developed plan of care through therapeutic activities and interventions.
• Provide training in activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and meal preparation as directed by the plan of care.
• Observe and promote home safety; recommend and instruct on basic adaptive equipment.
• Assist with cognitive and perceptual retraining to support daily functioning as directed by OT.
• Educate patients and caregivers on safe techniques, equipment use, and compensatory strategies.
• Document all visits and communications accurately and communicate patient progress or changes to the supervising OT.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings to communicate patient status, update care plans, and collaborate on individualized interventions.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

• Current ND OT Assistant license in good standing required.
• Basic Life Support (CPR) required within 30 days of hire.

Educational Requirements:

• None

Experience Requirements:

• None

Special Skills or Training Requirements:

• An established pattern of good work habits and attendance.
• Adequate physical strength.
• Understanding and concern for other people.
• Respect for confidentiality of information.
• Personal initiative and an interest in professional development.
• Ability to establish rapport with clients, family members, coworkers, and other health professionals.
• Ability to assume and carry out responsibilities assigned by the supervising therapist.

Physical Requirements:

The role requires mobility throughout home or office settings, prolonged periods of computer use or direct patient care, and the ability to lift, move, or support 25-50 pounds depending on patient needs. The employee must maintain adequate vision, hearing, and communication abilities to safely perform all duties.

Environmental Requirements:

Work is performed in patient homes, office settings, and community environments depending on position type. Exposure to varying home conditions, weather during travel, infectious agents, and equipment related hazards may occur. Strict adherence to safety protocols, PPE use, and regulatory requirements is essential.