NBCOT COTA case studies
NBCOT COTA · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The COTA certification is a national credential awarded by NBCOT to occupational therapy assistants who demonstrate the knowledge required for safe, effective practice. Its stated purpose is to protect the public interest: NBCOT certifies only those who have the necessary knowledge of occupational therapy to practice, and the exam is built to validate the knowledge essential for effective and safe practice at the entry level. The NBCOT COTA case studies are 5 cases and about 2,966 words.
1The Remark Mid-Dressing
R, 78, is on day 6 of a skilled nursing stay after ORIF of a right distal femur. She lives alone in a two-story home; her daughter lives three hours away.
477 words, about 2 min2Day 2 After Sternotomy
T, 64, is day 2 post three-vessel CABG via median sternotomy. Orders: sternal precautions, no lifting over 5 lb, avoid pushing or pulling with the arms; 2 L O2 by nasal cannula; activity as tolerated with assistance.
534 words, about 3 min3Knitting as a Non-Negotiable
L, 47, has moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis with ulnar deviation at the MCPs, swan-neck deformities, and 6/10 wrist pain after about 20 minutes of hand activity. She works 8 hours a day as a data entry clerk and knits 2 to 3 hours every night "to stay sane." Her hand therapy plan calls for joint protection, energy conservation, and orthoses.
512 words, about 3 min4Five Days to Discharge, One Willing Spouse
K, 80, is 3 weeks post left MCA stroke with right hemiparesis in a SNF. Modified Barthel 62/100: moderate assist for lower-body dressing, min assist for transfers, ambulates 40 feet with a rolling walker and min assist.
686 words, about 3 min5The Chart Handed Over at 9 A.M.
Renita is a COTA at a 120-bed SNF with a 92% productivity standard. Today's caseload is 16 patients in 7.5 hours.
757 words, about 4 min