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Kate Diedrich

@katevann

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Certified Hand Therapist specializing in occupational therapy and rehabilitation.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I am seeking a role that allows me to further develop my skills in occupational therapy while contributing to patient care and rehabilitation.

I am a dedicated Certified Hand Therapist with a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from A.T. Still University. With a strong academic background, including a GPA of 3.85, I have honed my skills in evaluating and treating upper extremity diagnoses. My experience spans various healthcare settings, where I have collaborated closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Currently, I work at South Bend Orthopedics in the Outpatient Hand Clinic, where I evaluate, treat, and implement discharge planning for patients with a range of upper extremity conditions. My role involves orthotic fabrication and extensive patient education, ensuring that individuals are well-informed about their treatment plans. Previously, I have worked in acute care and subacute rehabilitation settings, gaining valuable experience in managing complex cases and providing comprehensive care.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Certified Hand Therapist

Current

South Bend Orthopedics

Jun 2019 - Present (6 years)

Provided comprehensive evaluation, treatment, and discharge planning for pediatric to adult patients with diverse upper extremity diagnoses, including biceps rupture, tendonitis, nerve, and tendon injuries. Collaborated closely with hand surgeons to ensure optimal patient outcomes and fabricated custom orthotics.

Orthotics Upper Extremity Rehabilitation Discharge Planning Tendon Injuries Nerve Injuries

Occupational Therapist

Memorial Hospital

Jul 2017 - Jun 2019 (1 year 11 months)

Delivered acute care occupational therapy, including evaluation, treatment implementation, and discharge planning for a variety of diagnoses, with a focus on ortho/trauma/neuro patients. Worked within a multidisciplinary team, providing extensive patient and family education on ADL functioning and fabricating basic orthoses for acute upper extremity injuries.

Acute Orthopedic Rehabilitation Neurological Rehabilitation ADLS Discharge Planning

Occupational Therapist

Valley View Healthcare Center

Feb 2017 - Jul 2017 (5 months)

Conducted evaluations, implemented interventions, and managed discharge planning for patients with diverse diagnoses in a subacute rehabilitation setting. Focused on restoring functional independence and improving quality of life for adult patients.

Subacute Rehabilitation Discharge Planning Functional Independence Adult Rehabilitation

Dissection Club Student Manager

A. T. Still University

Jan 2015 - Dec 2016 (1 year 11 months)

Scheduled and managed a group of 20 students involved in human cadaver dissection. Facilitated learning and ensured smooth operation of dissection activities within the anatomy department.

Team Management Scheduling Cadaver Dissection

Research Assistant

A. T. Still University

Developed, implemented, and analyzed data for an exercise program designed for arthritis self-management. Contributed to academic research aimed at improving patient outcomes through evidence-based interventions.

Research Methodology Data Analysis Program Development Arthritis Management

Occupational Therapy Intern

Bardmoor Outpatient Rehabilitation

Sep 2016 - Dec 2016 (3 months)

Performed evaluations, planned and implemented interventions, and managed discharge for adults with primary upper extremity injuries in an outpatient hand clinic. Developed proficiency in splinting, physical agent modalities (PAM), and lymphedema treatment techniques.

Upper Extremity Rehabilitation Splinting Physical Agent Modalities Outpatient Treatment

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Michigan State University

Bachelor of Science, Kinesiology

Pursued a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, focusing on the study of human movement. Developed a strong foundation in biomechanics, exercise physiology, and motor control.

A. T. Still University: Arizona School of Health Sciences

Master of Science, Occupational Therapy

Grade: 3.85

Activities and societies: Developed, implemented, and analyzed data on an exercise program for arthritis self-management. Scheduled and managed a group of 20 students involved in human cadaver dissection.

Completed a comprehensive Master of Science program focused on occupational therapy, gaining expertise in evaluating, treating, and planning discharge for patients. Developed advanced clinical skills to enhance patient participation in daily activities.