Physical Therapist, Outpatient

Position Summary:

The Physical Therapist administers a variety of therapeutic procedures and agents utilized in the short- and long-term rehabilitation of in and outpatients (orthopedic, neurological, pulmonary, cardiac, medical and surgical) within the guidelines set forth in physician orders).

Responsibilities:

Patient Care:

• Has achieved/maintained specialty certification.

• Seeks out educational opportunities to expand patient care knowledge base.

• Receives positive letters/comments from patients, families or staff regarding interactions or treatment techniques.

• Notes diagnosis of patient and takes all precautions for observing indications and contraindications.

• Evaluates patient’s emotional and physical condition.

• Explains treatment to patient/family/others.

• Formulates measurable goals and individualized treatment plan.

• Integrates evaluation findings into treatment plan; observes and follows general guidelines and contraindications for physical therapy.

• Utilizes age-appropriate therapeutic techniques for assigned caseload.

• Monitors effectiveness of treatment and adjusts treatment plan accordingly.

• Initiates conversation/interaction with physicians and other health care providers for optimal provision of services

Documentation:

• Maintains records pertinent to patient evaluations.

• Maintains timely and complete documentation of all aspects of patient care.

• Documentation reflects patient response to treatment.

• Progress towards goals is reflected at least weekly.

• Flow sheet documentation reflects quality of patient performance.

• Appropriately utilizes departmental and hospital approved forms.

• Maintains current physician orders.

Evaluation:

• Correctly selects appropriate database, obtains, and interprets written referral and patient information gained from review of the medical record and verbally from the patient.

• Selects, performs, documents appropriate tests corresponding to diagnosis and functional limitations.

• Reports to and recommends changes to the physician as needed.

Acts as a Resource:

• Acts as a resource to entry level staff regarding complex cases and new/advanced techniques.

• Provides input into the supervision of students.

• Provides direct supervision of students.

• Demonstrates the ability to teach techniques or skills in a clear, concise manner.

• In-services staff upon return from conferences or seminars.

• Initiates ways to assist or support other staff members with department related tasks.

• Interacts with peers in a kind and professional manner.

• Consistently demonstrates an approachable style of interaction.

• When requested, assists other staff members with department related tasks.

• Supports hospital and system-wide patient quality and safety practices as identified by National Quality Forum, JCAHO and system-wide Quality and Safety Plan.

• Demonstrates knowledge of and follows JCAHO Patient Safety Goals.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Therapy required

• Experience: 0-3 years’ experience preferred. New Graduates considered.

• Licensure/ Certification: Current PT License from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Current BLS required.

• Other: Must be able to successfully clear a background check, including a criminal search. Use or possession of a firearm and/or other weapons is prohibited.