Physical Therapist

Overview

The Staff Physical Therapist is accountable for conducting and supervising physical therapy programs to enable the patient to reach the maximum physical performance possible, prevent disability and to teach the patient, family, and significant others to function within the scope of any permanent physical disability.

Responsibilities

• Provides supervision for the Physical Therapy department in the absence of a Director of Physical Therapy.
• Provides direct physical therapy treatment (exercise, gait training, A.D.L., muscle re-education, modalities, etc.) to patients in accordance with physician's orders.
• Evaluates patients from a physical therapy standpoint.
• Supervise physical therapy treatments provided by the Physical Therapy Workers.
• Records patient response to treatment and constantly re-evaluates patient's physical status.
• Evaluate and adjust equipment used by patient and personnel.
• Maintains communications with physicians, nursing and other appropriate departments regarding physical therapy treatments.
• Trains patient's family in rehabilitation techniques to be administered in the home.
• Assists patient and family in setting goals for patient and in making adaptations in the home environment consistent with the patient's capabilities and limitations.
• Provides in-service education and consultation services in physical therapy procedures and techniques to other members of the health care team to help plan for total patient needs.
• Assists in clinical education of students or the faculty as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Graduate of an accredited school of Physical Therapy approved by either the Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation or the American Physical Therapy Association.

• Foreign-trained therapists must have their credentials reviewed and approved by an independent agency appointed by the State Board of Physical Therapy.

Licenses & Certifications

• Licensed, or eligible for licensure, as a Physical Therapist in the state of employment.

Required Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Knowledge of physical therapy principles, practices, and treatment techniques.

• Ability to evaluate patient conditions and develop appropriate treatment plans.

• Ability to assess functional limitations and establish rehabilitation goals.

• Strong communication and patient education skills.

• Ability to document patient care accurately and maintain clinical records.

• Ability to work collaboratively with physicians, nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals.

• Knowledge of safety standards, infection prevention practices, and regulatory requirements.

• Ability to motivate patients and promote functional independence and recovery.