Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of healthcare, the role of Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistants is now more important than ever.

As the healthcare sector evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can provide, manage, and improve acute care services is on the rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of acute care occupational therapy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistants work under the supervision of Occupational Therapists to help patients recover and improve necessary skills for daily living and working, especially after a significant illness or surgery.

The duties and responsibilities of an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant include:

• Implementing treatment plans created by Occupational Therapists
• Helping patients perform therapeutic activities, such as stretches and other exercises
• Assisting patients with daily activities like eating, getting dressed, and using a computer
• Treating patients using a variety of techniques, such as sensory feedback and task-oriented activities
• Maintaining detailed records of patients’ progress
• Observing patients before, during, and after therapy, noting their status and reporting to an Occupational Therapist
• Teaching patients how to use special equipment; for example, showing a patient with Parkinson’s disease how to use devices that make eating easier
• Supporting patient’s mental and emotional well-being, encouraging them throughout their treatment
• Ensuring the therapy area is clean, safe, and conducive to patient’s recovery

 

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated and empathetic Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant to join our team.

The Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant responsibilities include aiding patients recovering from physical or mental illness, helping them regain their daily living and working skills under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist.

Our ideal candidate understands human behavior, has excellent communication skills and is passionate about helping patients to regain their independence.

You should have a firm grasp of therapeutic treatments and be comfortable working in an acute care setting.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist Occupational Therapists in carrying out therapeutic activities
• Monitor patients’ progress and report to Occupational Therapists
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment
• Implement treatment plans under the supervision of the Occupational Therapist
• Help patients with rehabilitative activities and exercises outlined in a treatment plan
• Encourage patients and cheer them throughout the therapeutic process
• Handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and updating patient records
• Observe patients’ responses to treatment and report adverse reactions to the therapist

 

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
• Current and valid licensure to practice as an Occupational Therapy Assistant
• Experience in an acute care setting is preferred
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Physical stamina to lift and move patients
• Ability to work in a team
• Basic computer skills for record keeping

 

Benefits

• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Continuing Education Assistance
• Wellness Program

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant
• Work Environment: This role is based in a hospital or healthcare facility. May require working in shifts.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Occupational Therapist or Rehabilitation Services Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant Do?

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistants work primarily in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers.

They work under the direct supervision of an Occupational Therapist.

They assist patients who are recovering from serious illnesses, surgeries, or injuries, and help them improve their ability to perform daily activities.

This may involve helping them regain skills such as dressing, eating, or using a computer, which they may have lost due to their health condition.

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistants use therapeutic exercises and activities to help patients regain strength, flexibility, and coordination.

They also provide education on how to use adaptive equipment, such as wheelchairs, orthotics, and aids for eating and dressing.

They may also be responsible for documenting patients’ progress, maintaining equipment, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized care plans.

The goal of an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant is to aid the patient’s recovery and help them regain independence in their day-to-day life.

 

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant Qualifications and Skills

An effective Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant should possess a combination of technical knowledge, interpersonal skills, and a genuine passion for patient care.

The qualifications and skills required include:

• Profound knowledge in acute care occupational therapy practices and principles to provide appropriate therapy to patients.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to assist patients with their therapeutic exercises and activities.
• Interpersonal skills to establish a rapport with patients, their families, and healthcare team members.
• Strong observational skills to monitor a patient’s physical and emotional wellbeing, and to assess their progress during therapy sessions.
• Exceptional communication skills to explain therapy procedures to patients and to collaborate effectively with the supervising occupational therapist.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt therapy plans based on the patient’s progress or changes in health status.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple patients and maintain accurate records of their therapy sessions.
• Compassionate and patient-centric approach to ensure a positive and comfortable environment for patients during therapy sessions.
• Ability to operate and maintain therapy equipment and tools.

 

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant Experience Requirements

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistants generally complete an accredited occupational therapy assistant program, which often includes a significant amount of both theoretical study and practical, hands-on experience under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist.

Individuals in these programs often participate in clinical rotations or internships in various healthcare settings, including acute care hospitals.

This gives them the necessary hands-on experience in providing acute care services under supervision.

Entry-level Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistants may have 1 to 2 years of experience, which is often gained through internships or part-time roles in various healthcare settings.

These roles may include working as a Rehabilitation Aide or Therapy Assistant in different care settings.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have broadened their skills and knowledge in acute care settings, gaining experience in patient evaluation, treatment planning, and therapy implementation under the guidance of an Occupational Therapist.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have additional responsibilities such as supervising or mentoring less experienced therapy assistants or students, and may be prepared for roles with increased responsibility or administrative duties within the occupational therapy department.

 

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant Education and Training Requirements

To become an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant, individuals must complete an associate degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program.

These programs typically require two years of full-time study and include academic, laboratory, and fieldwork.

Coursework typically includes biology, psychology, and pediatric health.

Further, students will learn therapeutic techniques, medical terminology, and essential professional ethics.

Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.

Passing this examination is a requirement in most states to become a licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant.

Some states might require additional licensure or certification to work in acute care settings specifically.

These requirements often involve extra coursework or supervised clinical experiences in an acute care setting.

To stay abreast of the latest techniques and developments in the field, many Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistants seek out continuing education opportunities.

While not always required, many employers prefer candidates with experience, such as internships or work-study programs in hospitals or rehabilitation centers.

 

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary Expectations

An Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant earns an average salary of $59,310 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may significantly vary based on factors such as professional experience, the area of specialization within acute care, and the geographical location of the employment.

 

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant need?

An Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant should have strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with patients, their families, and a team of healthcare professionals.

They should be empathetic, patient, and have the ability to motivate patients to complete therapy activities.

They must also have a good understanding of human anatomy, be familiar with medical terminology, and have the physical stamina to assist patients with their exercises.

 

What qualifications are required to become an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistants typically need an associate’s degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program.

Besides, they must be licensed, which requires passing a national examination after completing the degree program.

Some states may have additional requirements.

 

What should you look for in an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant resume?

When reviewing a resume for an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant, check for an associate’s degree in occupational therapy or a related field from an accredited program, as well as a valid state license.

Look for experience in acute care settings, and skills such as patient care, rehabilitation, and therapy techniques.

Also, take note of any additional certifications or specialized training.

 

What qualities make a good Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant?

A good Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant is compassionate and patient, as they work with individuals who are facing difficulties due to illness or injury.

They should be observant and have strong problem-solving skills to adapt treatment plans to the needs and progress of individual patients.

They must also be physically fit to assist patients with their exercises and have excellent communication skills to effectively interact with patients, their families, and healthcare teams.

 

What are the daily duties of an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant?

An Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant typically works under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist.

Daily tasks may include helping patients with therapeutic activities like stretching exercises, teaching patients how to use adaptive equipment, documenting patient progress, preparing equipment and treatment spaces, and educating families about patient care at home.

They may also participate in team meetings to discuss patient progress and care plans.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the complex reality of being an Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about supporting patient recovery.

It’s about intricately weaving the fabric of healthcare, one patient intervention at a time.

With our detailed Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant job description template and real-life examples, you’re well-prepared to take the next step in your career.

But why stop at prepared?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for producing precise job listings or honing your resume to the finest detail.

Keep in mind:

Every patient intervention is a stitch in the broader tapestry of healthcare.

Let’s weave that future. Together.

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