Job Details

The Recreation Therapist is responsible for the coordination and planning of therapeutic and recreational activities for the participants of the program. The Recreation Therapist conducts sessions for assigned groups according to professional standards of practice, monitors participant behavior and reactions, and expresses genuine interest in participant progress. The Therapist assists in entering all data on participants for program reporting. The Therapist participates in team meetings and educational programs and demonstrates compassion and respect for the physical and psychological needs relevant to the participant served.

* Assessments

* Conduct an initial assessment and scheduled reassessment of all participants as indicated. Record, sign and date all reports in the participant's medical record. Expedites documentation regarding assessment, treatment plans, progress notes, and incident reports.

* Monitors participant behavior, symptoms, and reactions in a responsible and caring manner and promptly reports pertinent information to appropriate personnel.

* Develops therapeutic participant relationships, expresses genuine interest in participant progress, and prepares care plans including team goals for continuing care in a manner that promotes the provision of compassionate and high quality participant care.

* Evaluation and Planning

* Develop specific therapeutic programs to include recreational and social activities. Integrates and applies the principles and theories of recreation therapy in a health care environment by utilizing knowledge of movement, fitness, and physical activities, leisure and social skills, and community resources in order to ensure that high quality therapy services are provided by the Therapist. Assesses the participant for his/her individual needs and previous interests to meet the requirements for recreational activities.

* Coordinates and conducts community outings for individual participants and develops and implements department program functions and seasonal and holiday events.

* Collaboration and Partnership

* Actively participates in and contributes to daily team meetings.

* Manages assigned case load, and maintains flexibility in adapting to schedule changes.

* Ensures efficient departmental operations by supervising students and volunteers in accordance with hospital, departmental, and school policies.

* Promotes the quality and efficiency of his/her own performance through participation in staff educational programs, approved continuing education courses, and specialized skill training programs.

* Participates in the development of the Interdisciplinary Team Plan of Care. Participates in the coordination of a 24 hour care delivery and maintains flexibility in adapting to schedule changes. Communicates participant changes to team members.

* Coordinates all activities with the Adult Care Assistants, drivers and their managers.

* Overall Scope of Responsibilities

* Oversight of the Recreational Programs at PACE Baton Rouge, Ollie Steele and St. Clare Manor.

* Responsible for coordination of joint sharing of resources for activities and events.

* Key role in Brain-Storming Sessions for new opportunities to broaden the scope of the Activity program of each entity..

* 1 year experience with the Frail/Elderly Population

* Bachelor's Degree in related field

* BLS Certification; Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist or Eligible