ACTIVITIES AIDE- Part-Time in Lovelock, Nevada at Pershing General Hospital

Definition: Under the guidance of the Certified Activities Professional and Social Worker, the Activities Assistant will provide group and individual activities for the patients of Pershing General Hospital’s swing program. Duties will include personal contact with a varying patient population and a varied work schedule that may include weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Distinguishing Characteristics: The Activities Assistant is an entry level position in the activities department. The incumbent will report to the Social Worker and will have no direct reports. In the absence of the Certified Activities Professional, the Activities Assistant may oversee the duties of volunteers and auxiliary aides on site.

Essential Functions: (Performance of these functions is the reason the job exists. Assigned jobs/duties are not limited to the essential functions).

1. Assists in the development and implementation of programs and activities which enrich the lives of our patients.

2. Develops and leads individual and group activities for patients admitted to the swing program. These activities will meet patient needs based upon their activity assessments, interests and care plan.

3. Initiates and conducts activities assessments for new admits and requests review from certified activity professional.

4. Documents activity participation of patients.

5. Participates in the care planning process to contribute in the multidisciplinary approach to care as well as to effectively coordinate activities to meet patient needs/interests.

6. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with all departments of the facility.

7. Works with and assists in work direction of volunteers.

8. Transports patients for outings and medical appointments as requested.

9. Proactively encourages and supports patient rights.

10. Prepares rooms, equipment, and supplies prior to each program and cleans up following each program.

11. Assists with the development of the monthly activities calendar.

12. Maintains a safe activities environment by using appropriate risk management, preventive maintenance, cleaning, and storage.

13. Encourages patient and family participation in activities.

14. Assists Certified Activities Professional in evaluation of effectiveness of program, individual needs, and participation levels of each patient.

15. Participates in department and hospital level quality assurance and process improvement initiatives.

16. Assists with scheduling patient follow up appointments and arrangement of transportation to these appointments.

17. Assists with patient needs i.e. taking patient order requests, assistance with technology usage, assistance with connection to family, etc.

Qualifications for Employment:

Qualifications for employment include the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform a job, which are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education, or training.

Knowledge of:

o Safety protocols and infection control measures.

o Time management skills related to the setup of planned activities and administrative tasks.

o Diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and preferences of patient and ensuring that activities are culturally appropriate.

o Basic therapeutic techniques, such as reminiscence or art therapy.

o Computer software related to activity planning, documentation, and communication.

o Regulations and guidelines related to long-term care facilities and activities programming.

Skill to:

o Recognize when patients with special needs or limitations need adaptation or modification to the activity.

o Observe patient reactions to activities and adjust as necessary.

o Maintain accurate records related to patient participation and outcomes of various activities.

o Deescalate tense situations that may arise in the course of duty.

Ability to:

o Communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.

o Genuinely care for the well-being of the patients and connect with them.

o Demonstrate capacity to execute the activities assigned by the Certified Activities Professional.

Required Certifications and Licenses:

Nevada driver’s license or issuance within 30 days of date of hire. CNA license strongly preferred. BLS certification preferred.

Experience and Training:

Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. A typical way to gain the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is:

o One year of experience related to activities for residents and patients of LTC or SNF facilities.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

The physical and mental requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

Physical stamina to perform tasks that involve standing, walking, bending, and reaching for extended periods. Emotional resilience to cope with stressful situations and interact with patients in various states of health and cognitive ability. Capacity to prioritize tasks, multitask, and maintain focus in a fast-paced environment. Visual and auditory acuity to observe patient status and communicate effectively. Ability to lift up to 25 pounds frequently.

In compliance with applicable disability laws, reasonable accommodations may be provided for qualified individuals with a disability who require and request such accommodations. Incumbents and individuals are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Working Conditions: The Activities Assistant role may work indoors or outdoors, depending on the activities planned. Varying schedules, including day shifts, evening shifts, weekends, and holidays may be required. Position may encounter situations with potentially infections materials including blood or other bodily fluids. Usage of protective equipment and safety precautions for brief or extended periods of time may be required.