OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY AIDE 2301

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under immediate supervision, an employee in this class performs routine, non-professional duties assisting patients with therapeutic activities.

The incumbent is responsible for assisting elderly and chronically ill patients to participate in a variety of art, craft and therapeutic activities in accordance with instructions given. The incumbent receives training while on the job in standard occupational therapy practices and in the proper attitudes and approach to use when working with patients. Assignments of increasing difficulty and responsibility are given as experience is gained. Work is reviewed through conferences and observation of work performed. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Encourages and shows patients in an occupational therapy program how to carry out leatherworking, woolworking, sewing, dressmaking, painting or other assigned occupational therapy projects;

Sets up materials and supplies in work areas prior to the arrival of patients at the occupational therapy class; accompanies patients to and from the classes;

Confers with the Occupational Therapist to discuss the progress of patients in their projects;

Assists the Occupational Therapist in maintaining records of projects in progress or completed by patients, the work area and an inventory of supplies;

May perform minor clerical tasks and filing.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Some knowledge of the arts and crafts and therapeutic skills taught in occupational therapy programs; some knowledge of the hazards that may occur in therapy classes and of effective safety precaution and remedial measures; ability to establish good working relationships with patients and therapy personnel; ability to understand and carry out instructions in accordance with established occupational therapy practices; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

OPEN COMPETITIVE

Either:

a) Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and one (1) year of experience in arts and crafts, recreation or nurses aide work; or,

b) Five years of experience as required in a); or,

c) An equivalent combination of education and experience as defined by the limits of a) and b).

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

At the time of appointment, employee must be listed in the New York State RHCF Nurse Aide Registry. This certification must be continued throughout the term of employment.

R2/12/96

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive