OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT 43161

10/1/91 C

This is the first class in the Occupational Therapist series. Positions in this class assist in implementing programs utilizing activities selected to restore, reinforce, and enhance task performance and to promote and maintain health. This class is distinguished from the Occupational Therapist class by the latter class's responsibility for independently planning and developing occupational therapy treatment programs.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of routine difficulty in determining clients' needs for occupational therapy services in collaboration with an Occupational Therapist. Observes and reports clients' conditions and responses to treatment, and recommends modifications. Assists in the development of long- and short-term goals to develop, improve, and/or restore the performance of necessary functions. Assists in the selection of occupational therapy techniques and determination of the sequence of activities to attain goals. Adapts techniques under the direction of an Occupational Therapist. Engages clients in purposeful activity in conjunction with therapeutic methods to achieve goals in independent/daily living skills. Monitors client treatment as directed. Positions may participate as a member of an interdisciplinary health care team to discuss patient progress.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor.

Supervision Received: Performs work under the general supervision of an Occupational Therapist Supervisor, may receive clinical guidance from an Occupational Therapist.

Scope: Positions assist in administering client treatment programs and maintaining equipment, ordering supplies, and maintaining observed information in client records.

Impact of Actions: Error or improper performance in the administration of skilled occupational therapy treatments could hinder clients' progress.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contacts with clients, social workers, and other health care professionals to discuss client's condition and progress.

Knowledge: Some knowledge of the principles and practices of occupational therapy.

Skills: Skill in engaging patients in therapeutic methods.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to work with clients possessing varying degrees of physical disabilities and to report client progress both orally and in writing.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: As specified by Virginia Code 54.1-2956 through 54.1-2956.3.

Education or Training: Graduation from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.

Level and Type of Experience: Some experience in patient care.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was revised as a part of the statewide Classification Review/Specification Update Program, effective October, 1991.