Therapy Assistant

Summary

These positions are located within the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PMR) Service, Recreational Therapy Section at the VA New Jersey Health Care System (VANJHCS) at the Lyons, NJ campus. The Therapy Assistant works with Veterans who have a variety of illnesses, diseases, and/or disabling conditions with varying degrees of impairment.

Duties

** *THIS IS NOT A VIRTUAL POSITION, YOU MUST LIVE WITHIN OR BE WILLING TO RELOCATE WITHIN A COMMUTABLE DISTANCE OF THE DUTY LOCATION***

Major duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to: Carries out a full range of therapeutic recreation services inclusive of recreation therapy modalities and general recreation activities and documents progress in the Computerized Patient Record System. Completes a preliminary review of patient data and compiles and organizes patient information. Develops a patient profile to be used in assessing patient needs for therapy services. Plans and carries out direct patient care activities in accordance to individual and group treatment plans. Provides training to staff, volunteers interns/practicum students on infection control measures. Assists Recreation Therapists in carrying out special therapeutic activities. Plans and carries out highly specialized and diversified treatments for patients with physical and/or mental conditions. Evaluates patient's response to therapeutic activity and reports pertinent information. Works with professionals to select, adapt and/or adjust recreation therapy modalities in accordance with treatment goals. Provides guidelines and leadership to the various activities and their participants. Modifies, adapts, expands, or changes plans and procedures for specific activities from the standpoint of participant's response. Plans, coordinates, and supervises cleared patients on community-based outings/activities. Manages the fitness center memberships, ensuring proper medical clearances and orientation to the facility. Maintains treatment equipment (recreation and fitness). Educates Volunteers and Interns/Practicum students to the overall program; and Performs other related duties as assigned. Work Schedule: Rotating shifts and various tours available. Weekends are required.
Recruitment & Relocation Incentives: Not authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not Required

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