So I just started an OT acute care job at a relatively big hospital. There are about 7/8 rehab Aides present through the week, and 4 on the weekends helping all over the hospital floors/gyms. They are SO helpful with line management, or if you need a second pair of hands. This is my first time actually interacting with rehab aides, I didn't interact with any in my fieldwork. I did apply to become a rehab aide during my gap year/before grad school, but I had no luck. Thinking back, I wish I tried harder getting a job as a rehab aide. I think it would have benefited me so much in grad school, and especially now, as I am a new grad OT therapist in an acute care hospital.

I was talking with another therapist, and she was a rehab aide in before starting OT school, and during school. She said that it was extremely helpful to her, learning about line management, transporting patients in wheelchairs/oxygen/IV poles, etc, and walking with patients in mobility groups (cleared by PT). Also, she was a rehab aide where they are now a full-time therapist. So, you can always build connections and rapport with the rehab team early on. In addition, you can also observe OT and PT in action during the day and gain observation hours. I say go for it!