Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

Arete' Health PT•Aquia Harbour, VA

11d

About The Position

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) in Hand Therapy works under the direct supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist and/or Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) to provide specialized rehabilitation for patients with upper-extremity injuries and conditions. The COTA assists in implementing treatment plans focused on restoring hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder function to improve independence in daily and work-related activities. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Requirements

Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
Current state licensure as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
NBCOT certification
Knowledge of upper-extremity anatomy and biomechanics
Splint fabrication and modification skills
Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail
Excellent patient education and communication skills
Ability to follow detailed treatment protocols and discuss patient care options with the supervising OT
Compassionate, professional, and team-oriented approach
Frequent use of hands for splinting, manual techniques, and therapeutic activities
Ability to assist patients with positioning and functional tasks
Prolonged standing and repetitive fine motor tasks
Prolonged standing, walking, and manual therapy activities
Ability to demonstrate therapeutic exercises and techniques

Nice To Haves

Hand therapy or orthopedic clinical experience preferred

Responsibilities

Implement hand therapy treatment plans developed by the Occupational Therapist/CHT
Guide patients through therapeutic exercises to improve range of motion, strength, dexterity, coordination, and functional use of the upper extremity
Assist with wound care, edema control, scar management, and desensitization techniques as directed
Fabricate, modify, and adjust custom and prefabricated orthoses/splints under OT supervision
Apply therapeutic modalities (e.g., heat, ice, ultrasound, electrical stimulation) per protocol and state regulations
Educate patients on home exercise programs, splint wear and care, joint protection, and ergonomics
Monitor patient progress and report changes, and concerns to the supervising OT
Accurately document treatments, patient response, and progress in compliance with clinical and regulatory standards
Maintain a clean, organized treatment area and ensure proper care of therapy equipment
Collaborate with physicians, therapists, and interdisciplinary team members to support patient recovery