Tasks & work activities — recreational therapist

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 29-1125.00 (Recreational Therapists).

Task statements

[Core] Develop discharge plans for patients.
[Core] Observe, analyze, and record patients' participation, reactions, and progress during treatment sessions, modifying treatment programs as needed.
[Core] Develop treatment plan to meet needs of patient, based on needs assessment, patient interests, and objectives of therapy.
[Core] Encourage clients with special needs and circumstances to acquire new skills and get involved in health-promoting leisure activities, such as sports, games, arts and crafts, and gardening.
[Core] Counsel and encourage patients to develop leisure activities.
[Core] Confer with members of treatment team to plan and evaluate therapy programs.
[Core] Conduct therapy sessions to improve patients' mental and physical well-being.
[Core] Instruct patient in activities and techniques, such as sports, dance, music, art, or relaxation techniques, designed to meet their specific physical or psychological needs.
[Core] Obtain information from medical records, medical staff, family members and the patients, themselves, to assess patients' capabilities, needs and interests.
[Core] Plan, organize, direct, and participate in treatment programs and activities to facilitate patients' rehabilitation, help them integrate into the community, and prevent further medical problems.
[Core] Prepare and submit reports and charts to treatment team to reflect patients' reactions and evidence of progress or regression.

Collaborate with healthcare professionals to plan or provide treatment.
Collect medical information from patients, family members, or other medical professionals.
Develop medical treatment plans.
Develop treatment plans that use non-medical therapies.
Encourage patients or clients to develop life skills.
Gather medical information from patient histories.
Inform medical professionals regarding patient conditions and care.
Monitor patient progress or responses to treatments.
Prepare reports summarizing patient diagnostic or care activities.
Provide health and wellness advice to patients, program participants, or caregivers.
Record patient medical histories.
Train patients, family members, or caregivers in techniques for managing disabilities or illnesses.
Treat patients using psychological therapies.