Purpose:
The Reactivation Worker, as part of the Geriatric Emergency Management (GEM) Program, plays a key role in supporting the health, mobility, and functional independence of older adults presenting to the Emergency Department. This role is ideally suited for an individual with an OTA/PTA designation who will work under the delegated authority of GEM team members, including Registered Nurses (RNs) and Social Workers (SWs), to carry out individualized reactivation and supportive care plans.
The Reactivation Worker will implement therapeutic activities and interventions focused on early mobilization, functional reactivation, and discharge planning support, all with the goal of minimizing hospital admissions, reducing functional decline, and supporting safe transitions of care.
This role is instrumental in enhancing the quality of geriatric care in the emergency setting. By supporting functional independence, reducing deconditioning, and facilitating safe transitions, the Reactivation Worker contributes to better patient outcomes and system flow.
DUTIES:
- Therapeutic Intervention & Mobilization:
- Provide early mobilization and functional support to older adults in the ED, based on delegated tasks from the GEM team.
- Facilitate reactivation and restorative activities to promote strength, balance, mobility, and functional independence.
- Assist with range of motion exercises, walking, toileting, transfers, and other ADL support tasks.
- Support Discharge Planning:
- Collaborate with the GEM RN and SW to support timely discharges by helping patients maintain or regain baseline function during ED stays.
- Provide input on functional status and progress to inform disposition planning.
- Patient & Family Engagement:
- Educate patients and caregivers on safe mobility, falls prevention strategies, and reactivation techniques under the guidance of the GEM team.
- Offer emotional and psychosocial support to patients and families, reinforcing interventions discussed by RN/SW.
- Documentation & Communication:
- Document delegated tasks and observations accurately in the patient’s health record.
- Communicate effectively with interprofessional team members regarding patient progress, challenges, and safety concerns.
- Collaboration & Team Support:
- Participate in team huddles, rounds, and case discussions as appropriate.
- Work closely with GEM RNs, Social Workers, and other interdisciplinary team members to ensure coordinated care delivery.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum of a two (2) year Diploma or Certificate as an Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA), Physiotherapist Assistant (PTA)
- Minimum of two (2) years’ experience working with older adults in an acute care environment.
KNOWLEDGE:
- Demonstrated training and knowledge of geriatric syndromes.
- Demonstrated knowledge of recovery and patient-centered approaches.
- Compassionate and patient-centered approach.
- Demonstrated excellent computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office software (e.g. Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook) and patient information systems.
ABILITY:
- Demonstrated behaviour consistent with the Hospital’s mission statement and ICCARE values.
- Demonstrated ability to be self-directed and work independently with minimal supervision, as well as effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Demonstrated ability to manage routine correspondence, multiple tasks/projects, diversified workload and rapidly changing priorities and challenging deadlines.
- Demonstrated discretion and maturity when handling confidential information.
- Demonstrated commitment to the safety of co-workers and patients.
Note: Because of the changing nature of the work and work to be done, other responsibilities and duties may be assigned and qualifications may be adjusted from time to time.
Sault Area Hospital does not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess or select applicants for a position.
Reason for Job Posting: Existing Position
