Occupational Therapist
Summary
Assess, plan, organize, and participate in rehabilitative programs that help build or restore vocational, homemaking, and daily living skills, as well as general independence, to persons with disabilities or developmental delays.
Examples of Work
Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description. These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.
- Test and evaluate patients’ physical and mental abilities and analyze medical data to determine realistic rehabilitation goals for patients.
- Train caregivers how to provide for the needs of a patient during and after therapy.
- Evaluate patients’ progress and prepare reports that detail progress.
- Plan, organize, and conduct occupational therapy programs in hospital, institutional, or community settings to help rehabilitate those impaired because of illness, injury or psychological or developmental problems.
- Select activities that will help individuals learn work and life-management skills within limits of their mental or physical capabilities.
- Recommend changes in patients’ work or living environments, consistent with their needs and capabilities.
- Design and create, or requisition, special supplies and equipment, such as splints, braces, and computer-aided adaptive equipment.
- Develop and participate in health promotion programs, group activities, or discussions to promote client health, facilitate social adjustment, alleviate stress, and prevent physical or mental disability.
- Consult with rehabilitation team to select activity programs or coordinate occupational therapy with other therapeutic activities.
- Complete and maintain necessary records.
Education and Experience
Graduation from an accredited Occupational Therapy Program and successful completion of American Occupational Therapy Association certification examination.
Licensure and Certification
Licensed as a Occupational Therapist in accordance with in accordance with Section 468, Florida Statutes and Rule Chapter 64B11, F.A.C.
Supervision
None
To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.