Physical Therapist

Overview The Staff Physical Therapist evaluates and treats residents, communicates with families, physicians, and other health team members, maintains documentation of services in medical records, and conducts in-services and training for facility staff on an ongoing basis. Responsibilities Evaluate residents to determine physical therapy needs, functional limitations, and rehabilitation potential in accordance with physician orders and facility policies. Develop, implement, and update individualized treatment plans to improve mobility, strength, balance, endurance, and functional independence. Assist the nursing department with training of Restorative Aides. Supervise Physical Therapy Assistants in direct resident care and related activities, following state practice act. Communicate regularly with physicians, nursing staff, interdisciplinary team members, residents, and families regarding progress, goals, and discharge planning. Participate in Resident Care conferences, Utilization Review meetings, and Rehabilitation meetings as needed. Provide in-services on training programs for other staff in the facility as needed. Complete timely, accurate, and compliant documentation in accordance with facility, governmental, and third‑party payer requirements. Maintain a safe treatment environment by following infection control, safety, and equipment maintenance protocols. Educate residents, families, and caregivers on treatment goals, home exercise programs, maintenance programs, safety techniques, and fall prevention strategies. Recommend and facilitate the ordering of necessary durable medical equipment for residents to facilitate independence in mobility (e.g., splints, walkers, canes, elevated toilet seats, and grab bars). Maintain confidentiality of residents’ information as well as company information. Report any problems with department equipment to ensure it is maintained in good working order. Contribute to quality assurance, performance improvement initiatives, and facility rehabilitation program development as assigned. Establish positive, effective, and appropriate relationships with residents, families, staff, and professional colleagues. Supervisory Requirements Supervises PT assistants (PTA), aides, and students. Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy; preference given to graduates of Master’s or Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy. Proficiency in computer skills such as inputting data into Net Health and Point Click Care programs. Language Skills Ability to read technical procedures and policy and procedure manuals, effectively present information, and respond to questions from managers, coworkers, and families. Mathematical Skills Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations. Reasoning Ability Ability to solve practical problems and interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. Certificates, Licenses, Registrations Licensed as a Physical Therapist in the state. Must meet continuing education requirements per state practices and maintain a license in good standing. Additional certifications as appropriate for the facility. CPR certification if required by licensure. Physical Demands Requires standing, walking, sitting, occasionally climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling. Must reach, push, pull, lift, and manipulate objects up to 100 pounds, frequently up to 50 pounds, and constantly up to 20 pounds. Effective communication (talking and hearing) is required. Must perceive and respond to environmental cues (tactile, auditory, visual) and safely transport residents per resident handling practices. Work Environment Work environment is usually low to moderate noise. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, in compliance with applicable federal and state laws. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr