------------------------------------------------------------------ Certified Occupational Assistant UCI Series Concepts Class Specifications - H.80 Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant III - 8947 Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant II - 8948 Certified Occupational Assistant I - 8949 June, 1990 ****************************************************************** SERIES CONCEPT Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants serve in an adjunct capacity to Occupational Therapists. As certified technicians, Certified occupational Therapy Assistants provide diversional and recreational activity programs, and assist Therapists in therapeutic treatment programs. Incumbents read medical records of assigned patients and, without need for prior verbal instructions, independently initiate and follow the treatment plan provided by the occupational Therapist. They write daily progress notes on patients treated, and independently sign these notes without need for a co-signature by an Occupational Therapist. Incumbents instruct patients in activities of daily living skills (e.g., dressing, bathing, grooming, hygiene, kitchen, and transfer); wheelchair mobility; and community reorientation. They provide treatment to patients which may include exercises and activities to promote optimal joint range of motion, strength, endurance, coordination, balance, and independent physical function. They provide activities to patients which promote improvement of cognitive and visual-perception functions. They monitor patients' safety and report to occupational Therapist any problems related to patient condition or safety. They plan and implement recreational outings and activities, and instruct patients in arts and crafts. They may design and fabricate special equipment and devices to assist disabled patients. They also prepare accurate charges for patients' treatment; maintain clerical records and statistical information on patients; maintain tools, equipment, and activity rooms in a clean and functional state; and order and maintain inventory for saleable and expendable supplies. Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants are distinguished from Occupational Therapists in that they are not legally able to assess, evaluate, or discharge patients. They are distinguished from uncertified occupational therapy aides in that they can treat patients without supervision and sign patients' charts without Therapist co-signature. ******************************************************************