Recreation Therapist I

The Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) is Western Canada’s busiest hospital, providing specialized care to a diverse population from a catchment area that includes 1/3 of Canada’s land mass. As a teaching hospital, the RAH embraces continuous quality improvement and evidence-based practice. Over 500,000 patients per year receive expert care from programs including: Level 2 Trauma/ICU/CCU, Accredited Stroke, Orthopedic Surgery, General Surgery, Neurosurgery, CK Hui Heart Centre, Lois Hole Hospital for Women, Indigenous Health Program, and many other inpatient and outpatient clinical areas. Our Rehabilitation Department is proud to be an integral part of the specialized care that is provided at the RAH. All staff members have access to a robust orientation and ongoing improvement program that includes demonstration of skills with a buddy, relevant in services, a library of supplemental learning material, practice meetings, participation in quality improvement initiatives, implementation of evidence-based guidelines, opportunities for service area rotation, and supervision of students. Our interdisciplinary department endeavors to create a climate of safety and inclusivity where we support one another to reach our goals, and work as a team to provide the highest level of care to our patients. The Recreation Therapist will provide comprehensive assessments and interventions for a variety of inpatient service areas. Expectations are that the therapeutic recreation practice will be evidence-based, client centered and meet therapeutic recreation standards of practice. The successful candidate will require excellent assessment skills and be proficient at designing individualized recreation programs for clients in either group or individual settings. Clinical leadership, strong communication, excellent time management and a high level of professionalism are essential.

As a Recreation Therapist I, you will be working collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team, providing comprehensive services for patients (clients, residents) within your assigned program or service area. You will ensure the level of therapeutic recreation practice is evidence based, patient-and family-centred, and in accordance with policies, procedures and standards of practice. You will complete assessment, treatment, education and management of clients¿ treatment progress and provide clinical support and consultation. You will collaborate and communicate with the health care team and participate in patient rounds, family conferences and meetings as related to the client and family.

Completion of bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation or Recreation and Leisure Studies. Active or eligible registration with Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA).

A bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy from a recognized university program is required. Heart and Stroke CPR (BLS-HCP) is required. Demonstration of strong clinical reasoning and problem-solving skills are required. Experience working successfully as part of a collaborative interdisciplinary team is required. Conflict resolution and strong communication skills are required. Must be able to work independently and within a team environment. Knowledge of community resources; continuum of care and discharge planning is required. Knowledge and ability to use computer applications such as Microsoft Office (Excel, Word and Outlook) required; experience with Connect Care is preferred. Work tasks and charting is computer based so there are extensive repetitive motion tasks. Must be able to tolerate long periods of sitting or standing as well as repetitive movements. Must be able to participate in hands on care of patients (i.e. transfers, bariatric clients, bending, reaching, twisting, and walking distances). Must be able to lift and carry 10-15 kg regularly if needed.

A minimum of 1-year recent experience in an adult inpatient acute care setting. National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist). Experience in the assessment and treatment of patients within the geriatric population is an asset. Experience with the complex medical patient populations is preferred. Experience working with the marginalized population with a good understanding of inner-city clients and resources is preferred.