Rehabilitation Therapy Technician V

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS•San Antonio, TX

2d•$4,095 - $5,094•Onsite

About The Position

The Rehabilitation Therapy Technician V performs advanced (senior level) rehabilitative therapy work. Responsibilities include developing a comprehensive, structured, hospital-wide recreational activity program; developing and providing training for new Rehab Therapy Technicians, as well as continuing education for experienced Rehab Therapy Technicians; maintaining inventory of supplies and equipment; providing necessary instruction to assist patients in attaining optimum level of performance; providing services in groups or on an individual basis. The Rehabilitation Therapy Technician documents progress or changes in patient’s behavior. Participates as a member of the multidisciplinary recovery team. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.

Requirements

Graduation from a standard senior high school or equivalent or three years’ experience working with people who have mental illnesses or intellectual and developmental disabilities.
If transporting patients, must possess valid Texas driver’s license or obtain it no later than 90 days after hire date.
Applicants with an out-of-state driver’s license must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure.
Eligible driving record required based on HHSC Fleet Management policy.
Certified in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).
Knowledge of standards, policies, and procedures
Knowledge of the rehabilitative process and of skills and adaptations necessary for engagement and optimal performance
Strong working knowledge of group dynamics and application to recovery
Knowledge in the rehabilitative therapy specialization area of mental illness and mental disabilities and safe application of knowledge to the provision of planned activities
Skills in observing and identifying patient behavior.
Skills in utilizing recreation and leisure activities.
Skills in the use of equipment, tools, and materials used in therapeutic service activities.
Ability to provide rehabilitative therapy.
Ability to assess patients’ functional levels.
Ability to plan an individualized program of instruction with, or on behalf, of the patient.
Ability to prepare concise reports.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Ability to train others.
Ability to plan work activities.

Nice To Haves

Completion of an associate degree in a rehabilitation area preferred.
Three (3) years’ experience in the development of treatment and support plans for people with mental illness or intellectual and developmental disabilities preferred.
Certified Rehab Therapy Technician (PTA) or obtain within one year required.

Responsibilities

Independently leads and assists in the development of activity-based functional and recreational programs using relevant tasks for patient population.
Schedules and instructs patients in therapeutic/wellness activities to include, but not limited to, exercise, arts and crafts, and outdoor sports.
Coordinates hospital-wide activities independently or as a team with other departments.
Effectively modifies, integrates, and implements programming for people with a wide variety of disabilities, cognitive levels, and behavioral issues in the therapeutic setting.
Selects activities based on patient function, abilities, strengths, and interests.
Establishes and maintains a relaxed atmosphere of cooperation among patients and staff while in the therapeutic setting.
Oversees the development of curriculum and coordination of planned programming for the patients served.
Coordinates and evaluates activities to enhance identified challenges and to maintain patients’ maximum physical ability.
Develops and provides training and continuing education to other Rehabilitation Therapy Technicians, students, and volunteers, as assigned.
Prepares materials for therapeutic activities and maintains an adequate supply of materials.
Maintains inventory and orders supplies, when necessary.
Assures all equipment is checked out and returned by staff using equipment.
Operates a state vehicle and transports clients as assigned.
Assures policies and procedures are followed regarding driving and transporting patients.
Observes the patient’s behavior in response to activities, level of participation, and progress and communicates the information to enhance treatment activities and goals.
Completes all documentation in computer-based medical record as required.
Completes monthly reports of patients served and activities presented.
Participates in the hospitals performance improvement program by attending meetings and serving on committees and special workgroups.
Assists in the development of plans of correction when deficiencies and standards are identified.
Ensures all assigned therapeutic facilities are kept clean and safe for patients served.
Demonstrates safety and complies with all established safety rules, regulations, and procedures to include monitoring sharps, infection control, and disinfecting equipment, etc.