Navy NEC · Medical
L21A Occupational Therapy Assistant
A Navy Enlisted Classification: a skill designation sailors hold in addition to their rating.
Overview
An Occupational Therapy Assistant carries out established treatment plans for acute and chronic rehabilitation under an occupational therapist or medical officer. They assist with orthotic fabrication and fitting, splinting, strengthening and range of motion programs, wound and scar management, and psychosocial rehabilitation.
Minimum clearance: Secret
Core Skills
- therapeutic exercise support
- orthotic and splint fabrication
- range of motion assessment
- neuromusculoskeletal rehabilitation
- wound and edema management
- adaptive equipment training
- psychosocial rehabilitation support
- patient progress documentation
- combat stress support
Civilian Software & Tools
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Windows
Civilian Career Paths
- Rehabilitation
- Clinical Technician
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA®)
- CPR/BLS Certification
Career Growth
- Certified Hand Therapist (CHT)
- Assistive Technology Professional (ATP)
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)
- Certified Wound Care Associate (CWCA)
Also Common
- National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
- Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS)
What the Work Involves
- Instruct, or assist in instructing, patients and families in home programs, basic living skills, or the care and use of adaptive equipment.
- Maintain and promote a positive attitude toward clients and their treatment programs.
- Implement, or assist occupational therapists with implementing, treatment plans designed to help clients function independently.
- Report to supervisors, verbally or in writing, on patients' progress, attitudes, and behavior.
- Monitor patients' performance in therapy activities, providing encouragement.
Related Occupations
- Occupational Therapy Aides
- Physical Therapist Assistants
- Physical Therapist Aides
- Psychiatric Technicians
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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