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, the OTA Student Orientation Manual and the Fieldwork 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.