Acute Care Occupational Therapist
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sanford USD Medical Center Sioux Falls

Job Opportunity: Occupational Therapist (OT) - Acute Care

Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Contract Length: 13 weeks

Job Summary

The Acute Care Occupational Therapist provides individualized occupational therapy treatment to patients of all ages with a variety of diagnoses including orthopedic, neurological, and general medical disorders. This role requires managing medically complex and often unstable patients, performing evaluations, treatment interventions, and ongoing assessment and adjustment of treatment plans. The therapist must demonstrate advanced critical thinking skills, flexibility, and the ability to prioritize a dynamic caseload in a fast-paced hospital environment.

Work Environment & Schedule

• Inpatient acute care and rehab setting
• Typical hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday
• Weekend requirement: 1-2 weekends per month (may be both days, with compensatory time off before or after)
• No on-call required
• Caseload: Approximately 4-5 patients per day, with some variation
• Dress code: Business casual (no jeans), modest attire; scrubs allowed in specified colors
• Orientation: 1-2 days specific training for computer documentation plus additional department training

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct evaluations and provide treatment interventions
• Participate in team conferences and document care (computerized charting)
• Use specialized equipment such as UE Bioness and Dynavision
• Monitor vital signs and medical equipment during treatment
• Recommend appropriate discharge destinations
• Communicate and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams for patient safety, scheduling, and discharge planning
• Supervise certified occupational therapy assistants, aides, and students as needed

Required Qualifications

• Licensed Occupational Therapist in South Dakota
• Knowledge of acute care occupational therapy practice, including managing medically complex patients
• Ability to perform critical thinking and problem-solving in a fast-paced environment
• Familiarity with occupational therapy scope and standards as outlined by the South Dakota Occupational Therapy Practice Act and the American Occupational Therapy Association

Additional Information

• Must be willing to work in a local setting (within 80 miles)
• Prior experience with acute care patients strongly preferred
• No explicit mention of prior travel experience required

This is a replacement position starting in April.