Job purpose

• This position conducts patient activities and patient contact to reinforce cognitive stimulation, to encourage socialization and to promote self-initiative.  

Responsibilities

1. Develop and implement therapeutic activities for small and large groups based on participant’s level of functioning. Create weekly schedules that meet CMS guidelines and provide therapeutic benefit for the patients.
2. Planning for thematic decoration and special events.
3. Train Mental Health staff to carry out activities when the Recreational Therapist is not present.
4. Fill in for program staff as needed.
5. Plan a daily schedule of physical, social and spiritual activities according to patient abilities.
6. Develop and maintain a library of structured tasks for patient use.
7. Order and maintain activity program supplies according to budget.
8. Work with the team to promote a positive, calm, joyful environment throughout the units.
9. Assess participants need for therapeutic social and recreational activities.
10. Document patient participation and behavior based on each patient’s individualized care plan.
11. Document each patients’ response to interventions in daily group notes.
12. Exercise accountability for patients and staff safety.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation
• CTRS Certification required
• One-year experience in a patient activities program in a health care setting preferred
• Current CPR (will be provided)
• HELP training will be provided
• Basic computer knowledge
• Strong interpersonal skills

Working conditions

Employee may work in high stress direct patient care areas. Stress levels may be high due to frequent dealings with life and death situations, physicians, families and other healthcare providers. Demands high level of concentration and the ability to work in emotionally charged situations.  

Physical requirements

Ability to handle heavy materials or patients. Physical demands greater than moderate may require knowledge of use of appropriate equipment. Frequent bending, lifting and pulling require proper use of good body mechanics. Must be able to communicate effectively with patients, staff physicians and visitors displaying a smile and maintaining a pleasant attitude. This job includes close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Also, the ability to communicate by phone is important.

Direct reports

This position has no management responsibility.