Activities Worker

Overview

The Activities Worker is responsible for performing basic activity programs for patients.

Responsibilities

• Encourages patients to participate in social and recreational activities and to maintain cleanliness of their area.
• Observes assigned patients as they interact on the ward and with family and friends to detect unusual behavior. Reports observations to team nurse for charting purposes.
• Assists in teaching good grooming and personal hygiene skills.
• Assists in crisis situations through non-violent techniques, restraints or seclusion of the patient.
• Interacts with patients during unstructured periods and assists new patients in their orientation to their surroundings.
• Accompanies patients to activities and therapy sessions, including off hospital grounds.
• Observe patients to insure that they do not leave the grounds unattended.
• Participate in team conferences, ward classes, in-service education programs and committees.
• Maintains work area in a clean, safe and orderly manner.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma required.
• Successful completion of the State Activities Course required.
• Additional training may be required for specific work areas.

Work Experience:

• Three (3) to six (6) months of on-the-job training required to attain proficiency in the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities.

Licensure/Certification:

• Successful completion of the State Activities Course required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to interact effectively with residents, patients, families, and staff.
• Ability to plan, coordinate, and participate in activity programs.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain a positive and professional demeanor.
• Ability to follow established policies, procedures, and activity program requirements.