The OTA/PTA role will support the Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists in the provision of patient care with the GRU patient population, either in a directly collaborative or delegated capacity. Under the directions of the Therapists, the OTA/PTA engages the client in purposeful activity, functional mobility, transfers and ambulation, therapeutic exercise and/or adaptive strategies (eg. ADL re-training) in conjunction with therapeutic methods, medical and safety precautions to achieve identified goals. The OTA/PTA monitors and documents the client's progress on flow sheets and/or interdisciplinary notes on the patient's health record as required. The OTA/PTA communicates with supervising Therapists about client progress and need for possible program modifications on a consistent and timely basis and may discuss and instruct caregivers regarding client activities and will support and reinforce treatment plans under the direction of the Therapists. The OTA/PTA will facilitate individual and/or group programs utilizing a patient and family-centred approach under the guidelines of the OT/PT treatment protocol. The OTA/PTA may provide clients with adaptive aids and equipment as well as perform adjustments, modifications and minor repairs to this equipment as assigned. Non-patient care duties may include services related to the management of OT/PT treatment areas and equipment and supply inventory in order to ensure provision of optimal patient care. The OTA/PTA may assist the Therapists in identifying/updating community resources, preparing educational materials and reinforcing community linkages, which support the implementation of the discharge plan. Also, actively participates in the program’s CQI activities. The OTA/PTA may also have the opportunity to be involved in student educational activities. Some coverage of other clinical areas may be provided as needed.
- Graduate of a recognized, accredited OTA/PTA Certificate or Diploma program from an approved Community College
- Demonstrated knowledge of adaptive aids and equipment, knowledge of adapting and teaching use of walking/mobility aids
- Minimum 2 years of recent clinical experience (within the last 5 years) working with a Geriatric / Rehabilitation population
- Demonstrated excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Ability to function collaboratively as an integral member of the healthcare team and express respect and sensitivity towards patient population
- Demonstrated ability to organize, prioritize, problem solve and work independently once assigned
- Demonstrated excellent problem-solving, clinical reasoning and professional judgment
- Demonstrated excellent interpersonal, organizational and initiation skills
- Demonstrated ability to communicate a clear understanding of the OTA/PTA role and the OT and PT services to client/family/staff as required
- Physically able to meet the demands of the job including walking, standing for prolonged periods of time, stooping, kneeling, reaching, lifting plus transferring heavy patients
