Essential Skills for OTA
Students must possess the following abilities or be able to perform them with reasonable accommodations. These essentials are:
- To abide by the policies and procedures of CCRI, as detailed in the CCRI Student Handbook and the OTA Student Manual.
- To adhere to the AOTA Code of Ethics and the current Occupational Therapy Practice Framework, which delineates the scope of practice for Occupational Therapy Practitioners.
- To handle the stress, physical demands and cognitive workload of an evening/weekend program averaging 12 credits per semester.
- Manual dexterity sufficient to perform therapeutic activities and procedures with individuals of all ages.
- To provide treatment/intervention/education to individuals of all cultures from across the lifespan without prejudice.
- To observe, gather and report data, both verbally and in writing.
- Independent mobility to move from class to class and within designated work areas at assigned fieldwork sites.
- To comprehend and effectively communicate in the English language (orally and in writing), using appropriate grammar and vocabulary.
- Computer literacy at a level sufficient for word processing and treatment documentation.
- Hearing and/or vision accompanied by sound judgment to respond quickly in emergencies.
- To consult and collaborate with peers, faculty, OT practitioners and other members of the community.
- Physical strength to assist in transfers or the ability to provide verbal instruction to caregivers.
- Physical strength to reposition clients or ability to provide verbal instruction to caregivers.
- To follow universal precautions, including donning of personal protective equipment.
- To demonstrate values of caring, understanding, and responsiveness to the needs of individuals residing in the state of Rhode Island.