Physical Therapist EX- Days, 40hrs

POSITION PURPOSE: Under the written referral of a physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, dentist, osteopath, and in concert with other members of the hospital staff, the physical therapist is responsible for the evaluation of patient clinical status, the assessment of their rehab potential, the design and implementation of age appropriate treatment programs to maximize the patient’s level of function, counseling and education to patients in the rehabilitation setting. Must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of patients served; demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development; possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient’s requirements relative to age and cultural specific needs and to provide care needed in accordance with professional standard of practice.

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POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Education:

Graduate of an APTA accredited program

Bachelor of Science Degree and/or certificate in Physical Therapy

Certification/Licensure:

Massachusetts license or license eligible

Current CPR certification

Minimum Experience:

None

Minimum Skills/Abilities:

Effective communication and educational skills

Ability to perform essential functions without posing a direct threat to patients and other staff

Ability to work cooperatively with others with a positive attitude

Ability to deal with stress due to a fast-paced and growing environment

Ability to manage within a flexible schedule

Ability to work independently with excellent organizational and sound decision-making skills

Able to read, hear, write and comprehend English

Willing to train in continuing education annually

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Frequent standing, sitting, pushing, bending, lifting and/carrying objects from 2-75+lbs (overhead: 2- 10lbs,above waist: 2-75lbs, below waist: 2-75+lbs). Occasionally twisting and climbing.

JOB RELATIONSHIPS:

Supervises:

Physical Therapist Assistants, Clinical Aides, Students

Collaborates with:

Occupational Therapy Staff, Speech and Language Therapy Staff, Medical Staff, Nursing Staff, Respiratory Staff, Dietary Staff, Care Coordination, Interpreters.

Supervised by and Reports to:

Supervisor

Director of Rehabilitation Services

AUTHORITY:

Has the authority to select and perform all aspects of treatment/evaluation and patient care within the guidelines of the hospital, under the state and federal licensing regulations, and ethical and standards of care adopted by the APTA.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provides superior customer service to external and internal clients, customers as referenced in the Hospital Wide Performance Expectation.

Evaluates patient’s clinical status, assesses clinical/rehab needs, establishes goals in conjunction with patient and family, plans and implements a treatment program including a discharge plan.

Takes all precautions for observing indications/contraindications

Maintains records pertinent to patient evaluations and treatment; follows set guidelines for evaluation and record keeping.

Instructs patient/family as indicated in treatment goals, home programs, and in-hospital self exercises.

Prepares or supervises aides in the preparation of patients for treatment via proper draping and positioning, maintaining patient privacy.

Applies or supervises aides in application of agents such as: TENS, Ultrasound, Electrical Stimulation, Hot Packs, Cold Packs, Cervical and Lumbar Traction, Whirlpool, Massage, Iontophoresis, Biofeedback.

Follows department policies and procedures

Assists and directs and instructs ancillary and other personnel as necessary

Studies current trends and new developments in physical medicine by survey of literature, attendance at professional meetings and conferences, research activities and participation in department-in-service.

Participates in the training of physical therapy students from APTA accredited programs after 1 year of experience.

Participates in development of new programs and clinical services

Participates in the CQI process through audits, peer review, and other Quality Council approved activities.

Performs various other duties as assigned by Director of Rehabilitation Services.

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS:

Reports formally and informally to the Supervisor and /or Director of Rehabilitation Services, regarding situations that require his/her attention.

Report immediately any deviations in normal operations.

Reports immediately any unusual occurrences related to patients, other staff, self, or equipment.

Reports all incidents and breaches in the quality of care to the Director of Rehabilitation Services and Risk Management Department.

Reports to Primary care Physician/Referring Physician, any changes in the patient’s condition warranting intervention.

ACCOUNTABILITY:

Shall be accountable for selecting and performing all aspects of patient care as delineated by-license, and governed by state, federal and standard-setting organizations.

Shall be accountable for maintaining the confidentiality and security of all hospital related, staff-related, and patient-related data and information.

Shall be accountable for abiding by all relevant hospital and departmental policies and procedures, including infection control.

Shall be accountable for patient care by non-licensed personnel while under their supervision.