Occupational Therapist Per Diem - Acute Care

St. Tammany Health System; Covington (LA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

St. Tammany Health System is hiring an Occupational Therapist in Covington, Louisiana. The role involves planning and administering therapy treatments for patients recovering from various conditions. Candidates should possess a degree in Occupational Therapy and relevant licenses, plus basic computer proficiency.

This position requires physical capability and effective communication with medical staff for ensuring patient discharge planning. Join a dedicated team focused on patient recovery and skill development.

Qualifications

• Occupational Therapist license or permit from the Louisiana State Board required.
• Basic Life Support certification through the American Heart Association.
• NBCOT Certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan and administer Occupational Therapy treatment to restore function.
• Consult with rehabilitation team to select activity programs.
• Construct and monitor custom-made splints and adaptive equipment.

Skills

Basic computer proficiency

Occupational therapy treatment planning

Communication with medical teams

Education

Bachelor of Science or Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy

Job description

Job Summary

Plans and administers medically prescribed Occupational Therapy treatment for patients suffering from surgeries, injuries, muscle, nerve, joint, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and bone diseases to restore function, prevent disability, and facilitate discharge from the hospital setting.

Reviews physician's referral and patient's condition and medical records to determine the occupational therapy treatment required. Facilitates the development and rehabilitation of mentally, physically, or emotionally handicapped patients by planning programs involving activities such as practice in functional, pre‑vocational, vocational, and homemaking skills, activities of daily living, and sensorimotor, educational, and recreational activities designed to help patients develop or regain physical or mental functioning or adapt to disabilities.

Consults with other members of the rehabilitation team to select an activity program consistent with the needs and capabilities of the individual and to coordinate occupational therapy with other therapeutic activities. Selects constructive activities suited to the individual's physical capacity, educational level, and interests to maximize independence, prepare the individual for discharge, return to employment, assist in restoration of functions, and aid in adjustment to disability. Constructs and monitors the use of custom‑made splints based on physician orders/referral. Issues or constructs adaptive equipment for the individual and suggests adaptations for the individual's work‑living environment. Evaluates effects of treatment at various stages and adjusts treatment to achieve maximum benefit. Orients, instructs, and directs work activities of assistants, mobility technicians, and students. Communicates directly with consulting physicians, nursing staff, and case managers/social workers to ensure discharge recommendations and/or barriers to discharge are identified in a timely manner.

Work Schedule

Scheduled Weekly Hours: TBD

• Shift 8:00 am to 4:30 pm

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science or Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from an AOTA‑accredited institution.
• Occupational Therapist license or permit from the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners required. Permit holders must obtain a license within 90 days of hire.
• Basic Life Support certification through the American Heart Association required.
• NBCOT Certification strongly preferred.
• Basic computer proficiency, including word processing and spreadsheets.

Physical Demands

• Must possess good physical health and be able to stand, sit, or walk for long periods of time.
• Lifting at least 50 pounds is required.
• Physical Effort:
• Constant (67% – 100%): talking, hearing, and seeing
• Frequently (34% – 66%): none
• Occasionally (1% – 33%): lifting, carrying, pushing/pulling, climbing stairs or ladders, balancing, stooping, crouching, reaching, and handling/feeling

Equal Opportunity Employer

St. Tammany Health System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The health system is committed to equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability status, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.