Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - Santa Monica, CA

Santa Monica, CA

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Evaluate patients within 24 hours or 1 business day of physician referral (document delays as needed).
  • Develop effective treatment plans and secure physician approval.
  • Administer therapy based on physician's treatment plan.
  • Assist in training Restorative Aides in the nursing department.
  • Supervise Occupational Therapy Assistants in patient care and related activities in accordance with state practice act.
  • Maintain clear communication with supervisor and healthcare team regarding patient progress and treatment plans.
  • Participate in:- Patient Care Conferences- Utilization Review meetings- Rehabilitation Conferences
  • Conduct in-service training for facility staff.
  • Complete documentation, including:- Evaluations- Daily treatment notes- Weekly progress notes- Recertification paperwork
  • Update treatment plans and document changes per policy.
  • Provide caregiver training and discharge planning support to families and nursing staff.
  • Recommend and assist in ordering durable medical equipment (e.g., walkers, canes, grab bars).
  • Report issues with department equipment to ensure proper maintenance.
  • Build and maintain effective relationships with patients, families, staff, and colleagues.
  • Supervise:- Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs)- Aides- Students

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Technical/Computer Skills:- Proficient in using Casamba and Point Click Care (or similar programs).
  • Language Skills:- Ability to read technical procedures and policy manuals.- Effective verbal communication with managers, coworkers, and families.
  • Mathematical Skills:- Ability to apply basic math concepts like fractions, ratios, and percentages.
  • Reasoning Ability:- Capable of solving practical problems and interpreting various types of instructions (written, oral, diagrams, schedules).

Physical Demands

  • Very Frequent:- Standing, walking, pushing/pulling, talking, hearing, tasting, smelling
  • Frequent:- Reaching with hands and arms
  • Occasional:- Sitting, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling
  • Lifting:- Exerting over 100 lbs occasionally, 50 lbs frequently, and 20 lbs constantly
  • Vision Requirements:- Close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth perception- Ability to adjust focus

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy (required)- Preferred: Master's or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy
  • Not specifically mentioned but expected to align with educational background.
  • Must be a licensed Occupational Therapist in the state.
  • Must meet continuing education requirements per state regulations.
  • License must remain in good standing with the state board.