Exam Preview

Advocacy Strategies for the Occupational Therapy Assistant

---

1.  The need for occupational therapy assistants as a new level of practitioner occurred because: Occupational therapists were needed in medical and rehabilitation settings leaving psychiatric settings without OT practitioners Changes in Medicare increased the need for OT staffing in skilled nursing facilities Occupational therapy needed to follow the example of nursing and other professions with supportive personnel Occupational therapy was seeing an increasing need for OT in the school systems due to passing of educational legislation for related services

2.  Initially there were some issues with adding another level of practitioner to the OT profession. Which was NOT stated as a concern? The role of the OT was still being defined in health care The OT now had to take on the role of supervisor The OT was licensed, however the OTA was not The skills of the OTA at times highlighted the weakness of the OT

3.  Throughout history, occupational therapy assistant educational programs were offered where? Hospitals Technical schools & community colleges Colleges & universities All of the above

4.  The OTA can be involved in what stage of the OT process (evaluation, intervention & outcome)? Intervention phase only The OTA can provide input to all phases of the OT process Evaluation and intervention but not outcome All phases EXCEPT evaluation

5.  Direct supervision of an OTA would be for all of the following EXCEPT: The client has complex needs The setting requires frequent evaluation of clients The OTA is an entry level practitioner The OT is an entry level practitioner

6.  All 50 states now require licensure for OTs and OTAs. What state was the last the pass legislation for the licensure of OTAs? New York Hawaii Florida Rhode Island

7.  One strategy of advocacy is to understand the power of inclusive language for occupational therapy. What term includes both OTs and OTAs? Occupational therapy personnel Occupational therapists Occupational therapy practitioners Occupational therapy team

8.  One difference in the educational preparation of the OT versus the OTA is: OT education will focus more on theory and research OT education will have minimal focus on intervention methods OTA education will have little focus on documentation OTA education will not include leadership skills

9.  An OTA has a concern specifically regarding the role of the OTA in a new piece of legislation. What would be the best course of action to learn more and voice concerns? Look online for an opportunity to comment Contact local legislators for clarification Contact OTA representatives in state and national OT organizations Ask management at work

10.  An OT who has never supervised an OTA before is unsure what skills he/she can delegate to the OTA. What is suggested as a way for the OTA to be an advocate for him/herself? Be a part of the orientation process for the OT Know and educate others on the roles and responsibilities of the OT vs. OTA both in general and as outlined the state practice act Get a bachelor's degree to further his/her education Get an advanced practice certification in skills to increase service competency