Hand Therapist

The Hand Clinic at the Hamilton General Site - Regional Rehabilitation focusses on the management of acute traumatic hand injuries and post-surgical hand conditions. Referrals are primarily from plastics and orthopaedics. The therapist works in a hand therapist capacity, providing treatment which may include:

- provision of custom-fabricated thermoplastic splints

- wound care, patient education regarding post-surgical precautions and care

- ROM, functional assessment/remediation and strengthening. 

While the primary focus of interventions is impairment based, the therapist is also involved in disability reduction, activity modification, pain reduction and energy conservation.

As a member of the healthcare team, using a client-centered approach, the therapist works with patients and families to enable the patient to maximize their recovery to meet agreed upon goals. The Therapist is supported by an OTA/PTA and Business Clerk.  The therapist works closely with the plastics and orthopaedics teams to determine the best course of treatment for the patients’ condition.
This is a great opportunity for a therapist with hand therapy expertise who wishes to work in a challenging environment to continue to hone their skills and further knowledge and expertise with complex upper extremity conditions.

1. Member in good standing of College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario or College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
2. Experience with multidisciplinary teams particularly specialist surgical or ambulatory teams.
3. Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of acute hand injuries.  Preference for therapists with current Hand Therapy Certification with the Hand Therapy Certification Commission.  Candidates in process of attaining certification will also be considered.  
4. Splinting and mobilization skills and experience required.
5. Excellent clinical and non-clinical analytical skills.
6. Capacity to work in a very fast paced, hectic environment.
7. Ability to document clinical findings, treatment plan and progress using specified record system.
8. Demonstrated commitment to supporting learners from entry to practice programs (e.g. OT/PT).