Physical Therapist I

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Physical Therapist I conducts comprehensive assessments of inpatients with physical and functional deficits, planning and implementing physical therapy treatments to promote mobility, reduce pain, restore function, prevent permanent disability and restore independence, using various treatment techniques. Collaborates with other disciplines to arrange for appropriate follow-up care and facilitates a successful return to home and work environments.

Position: Physical Therapist I

Department: Physical Therapy

Schedule: 40 Hours (Days)

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES: 

Conducts physical therapy evaluation procedures according to professional and departmental guidelines.  

• Completes evaluation and documentation. 

• Reviews patient records, gathers necessary information, and clarifies any questions about physician’s order prior to assessing the patient.  

• Selects evaluation procedures that reflect understanding of the patient’s diagnosis, abilities, and limitations with input from mentor/senior staff as needed.  

• Administers evaluation procedures according to the guidelines of standardized tests (including range of motion, manual muscle testing, balance, mobility); adapts evaluation procedures as indicated to accommodate the specific needs of patients.  

• Interprets evaluation results, develops an integrated diagnostic impression, and makes recommendations with input from mentor/senior staff as needed.  

• Performs re-evaluations according to departmental policies, change in patient’s status or response to treatment.  

• Educates patient and caregiver regarding evaluation findings and management of care recommendations.  

Establishes treatment goals and plans that reflect the needs of the patients while meeting departmental, institutional, and third-party reimbursement requirements.  

• Formulates treatment goals and plans that reflect the patient’s unique psychological and functional deficits.  

• Establishes measurable and attainable short and long-term goals in collaboration with patient and/or caregiver.  

• Modifies goals as warranted by changes in patient’s status.  

• Assesses discharge needs of the patient and caregiver, including but not limited to: insurance issues, equipment needs, follow-up appointments, and appropriate use of community services.  

• Communicates patient care and discharge needs to team members as needed. Arranges for appropriate follow-up.  

Implements comprehensive treatment with input from mentor/senior staff as needed. Demonstrates steady evolution of clinical competence.  

• Establishes treatment priorities based on evaluation results and the specific needs of the patients.  

•  Recommends and/or issues appropriate assistive devices or durable medical equipment, ensuring that it properly fits the patient.  

• Develops and instructs patient and caregiver in home programs and/or use of recommended equipment; provides verbal and/or written instructions as indicated.  

• Adheres to diagnosis-related precautions.   

Complies with departmental, institutional, and accrediting agency policies and standards.