Occupational Therapist

The Occupational Therapist is responsible for evaluating, planning, and implementing individualized occupational therapy programs designed to restore function, improve independence, and enhance the quality of life for residents with physical, cognitive, emotional, or developmental impairments. The Occupational Therapist collaborates with the interdisciplinary care team to develop treatment plans that promote safety, maximize functional performance, and support each resident's highest level of independence.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy program.
• Current, unrestricted license to practice as an Occupational Therapist in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Current CPR certification or ability to obtain certification within the required timeframe.

Previous experience in a skilled nursing, rehabilitation, long-term care, assisted living, home health, or outpatient setting preferred.

Knowledge of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), and appropriate intervention strategies.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to educate residents, families, caregivers, and interdisciplinary team members.

Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities.

Requirements

• Evaluate residents to determine functional abilities, limitations, and occupational therapy needs.
• Develop, implement, and modify individualized treatment plans based on physician orders, clinical findings, and resident goals.
• Select and apply appropriate occupational therapy treatment methods, interventions, and techniques to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
• Provide therapeutic interventions that improve performance in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs).
• Instruct residents in adaptive techniques and compensatory strategies to increase independence and safety.
• Recommend, fit, and train residents in the proper use of adaptive equipment, assistive devices, and environmental modifications.
• Assess residents' home or living environments and recommend modifications that promote safety, accessibility, and functional independence.
• Educate residents, family members, and caregivers regarding treatment plans, home exercise programs, adaptive equipment, and strategies to support continued progress.
• Monitor, evaluate, and document resident progress toward established short- and long-term treatment goals, revising treatment plans as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete documentation in accordance with facility policies, professional standards, payer requirements, and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Collaborate with physicians, nursing staff, rehabilitation team members, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate comprehensive resident care.
• Develop discharge plans and recommend appropriate follow-up services, equipment, and community resources to support continued functional independence following completion of therapy services.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with all HIPAA regulations and facility policies.
• Participate in interdisciplinary care conferences, staff meetings, in-service education, and continuing education programs as required.
• Adhere to all facility policies, safety standards, infection prevention practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the Rehabilitation Department and the organization's mission.