Physical Therapist

Description

Essential Functions:

1. Participates in the development and maintenance of treatment plans.
   • Assists the physician in evaluating home care patients by apply diagnostic and prognostic muscle, nerve, joint and functional ability tests.
   • Participates with other clinical staff in assessing patient needs and developing an appropriate plan of care.
   • Conducts initial evaluation independently if physical therapy is the only service ordered.
   • Contacts designated Clinical Services Manager and/or Registered Nurse to report findings and recommendations within 48 hours of initial assessment.
   • Completes physical therapy assessment note in a timely manner.
   • Participates in case conferences as assigned.
2. Implements current physical therapy practice.
   • Implements physical therapy interventions to relieve pain, develop or restore function and maximize physical capabilities in accordance with physician orders.
   • Helps home care patients adjust to physical limitations.
   • Instructs patients and/or family members in care and use of wheelchairs, braces, crutches, canes and prosthetic and orthotic devices.
   • Submits timely, complete clinical records documenting services rendered and observations about patient's progress also meeting required reassessment criteria.
   • Participates in discharge planning activities and prepares a written discharge summary.
   • Supervises home health aides in lieu of a Registered Nurse/Occupation Therapist if physical therapy is the only skilled service provided.
   • Implements appropriate infection control and safety measures and reports all hazards and accidents in a timely and acute manner.
   • Maintains confidentiality of patient information.
   • Adheres to all Agency policies regarding schedules changes an/or missed visits.
3. Uses equipment and supplies safely and efficiently.
   • Demonstrates accurate and efficient utilization of equipment and supplies.
   • Communicates information regarding malfunctioning equipment and/or inadequate supplies to appropriate individuals.
   • Communicates information regarding safe and efficient use of equipment and supplies to patients and families.
   • Provides information about reimbursement of needed equipment and supplies to patients and families.
4. Participates in professional growth and development.
   • Attends Agency in-services
   • Develops and presents educational programs for Agency clinical staff no less than annually.
   • Demonstrates current knowledge of the principles of physical therapy practice.
   • Maintains current professional licensure.
   • Participates (at least quarterly) in the Quality Assessment and Improvement Program which includes peer to peer documentation review.
5. Fulfills additional responsibilities as assigned and as necessary.
   • Will receive first opportunity to accept assignment over contracted therapist. If more than a 20 mile radius from the
   • therapist's home of record, compensation will be considered for additional miles/time.
   • Maintain ten (10) visits per week if the work is available.
   • Participates in annual performance review.

Requirements

Physical Requirements: Ability to perform tasks involving physical activity which may include heavy lifting and extensive standing and bending. Visual/hearing ability sufficient to comprehend written/oral communication. Ability to deal effectively with stress.

Working Conditions: Works in office areas as well as throughout Independent Living Facilities and residential homes. Sits, stands, bends, lift, and moves intermittently during working hours. Interacts with patients, family members, staff, visitors, government agencies/personnel, etc., under all conditions/circumstances. Is subject to hostile and emotionally upset patients, family members, staff, visitors, etc. under all conditions/circumstances. Is involved in community/civic health matters/projects. May be exposed to infectious waste, diseases, conditions, etc., including exposure to the AIDS and hepatitis B viruses. Communicates with the medical staff, nursing staff, and other unit supervisors. Maintains a liaison with patients, their families, support staff, etc. to assure that the patient's needs are continually met.

Qualifications: Graduate of a physical therapy curriculum approved by: The American Physical Therapy Association, The Council on Medical Education and Hospitals of the American Medical Association, or The Council on Medical Education of the American Medical Association and the American Physical Therapy and the American Physical Therapy Association.
Three (3) years recent experience as a Physical Therapist. Home care experience preferred. Must have a car available.

Certification and License Requirements: Currently licensed to practice in the state of Virginia