Physical Therapist - Visiting Nurse Service (VNS) - Full Time

Physical Therapist - Visiting Nurse Service (VNS) - Full Time

Under the general guidance of the Director of Rehabilitation Services, provides physical therapy services to patients of the agency, under the direction and written orders of a physician. The physical therapist (PT) works within the scope of practice as defined by the NYS Education Department for physical therapists. The PT practices his/her duties in a manner that is compliant with federal, state, local codes, rules and regulations, and law.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Evaluates the degree of function and disability of patients unless contraindicated by his/her professional judgment or a doctor's written order.
• Develops a treatment plan based on patient evaluation and physician orders, designed to maximize independent, functional mobility.
• Performs physical therapy procedures upon the written order or referral of a licensed physician.
• Records on patients charts all physical therapy evaluations, re-evaluations, progress notes, consultation and discharge summaries within the time frames established by policy and procedure. Completes documentation by the end of the day on which the visit was made.
• Performs the Comprehensive Assessment (OASIS) at the appropriate time points, and performs aide orientations and biweekly supervisions.
• Assesses the need for adjunct services, if not already involved, to achieve desired patient outcomes, e.g. SLP, OT, MSW, aide, skilled nursing.
• Educates the patient and family in the therapy process and treatment.
• Participates with other personnel in the formulation of the patient's total plan of care, and confers with the clinical team.
• Consults with the physician on a regular basis regarding the therapy plan of care and patient progress.
• Develops or assists in the development of physical therapy policies and procedures.
• Assists in the instruction of agency staff as needed.
• Performs other appropriate duties as needed.

Other Responsibilities

• Timely and accurate documentation as evidenced by clinical record audits and the appropriate submission of required documentation.
• Follows infection and exposure control protocols.
• Meets with direct supervisor during scheduled times and attends required agency and departmental staff meetings.
• Responsible for keeping current in therapy practice and knowledge. Participates in in-service training programs.
• Actively participates in VNS's quality assurance and quality improvement programs
• Complies with agency policies and procedures.
• Follows the Code of Conduct.
• Undertakes special activities as assigned and other duties as appropriate.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited program in physical therapy.
• Licensed and currently registered by New York State Education Department as a Physical Therapist.
• At least two years of supervised clinical experience.
• Understands the principles, techniques, and practices of physical therapy.
• Understands the operation and maintenance of apparatus and equipment used in physical therapy.
• Understands the pathological conditions and socioeconomic factors affecting a patient's disabilities.
• Competent clinical skills as evidenced by the successful completion of a skills checklist appropriate to the area of work, upon hire and every three years thereafter.
• Possess a current NYS driver's license and reliable transportation to/from work assignments
• Must have some familiarity with medical data base systems.
• Must provide immunization record and physician's statement of health at hire and upon return to work from illness-related absence of more than 3 days.
• High degree of confidentiality required.

Physical Requirements

• Physical demands may include but are not limited to lifting, bending, standing and transferring patients (with equipment when necessary).
• Mental demands may include but are not limited to emotions of grief upon learning of a decline in the medical condition or the passing of a patient.
• Requires use of computer for a minimum of 25% of the work hours.
• Home Care field work involves increased risk while driving during inclement weather to and from patients home and other work assignments.
• Some irregular hours may occur and adjustments made to work assignment for the welfare of the patient.
• Increased exposure to infectious diseases; must follow established protocols.

Trainings Required

1. Exposure Control
2. HIPPA
3. Emergency Preparedness
4. Workplace Safety
5. CPR
6. Body Mechanics
7. Aids Confidentiality
8. Infection Control
9. Home Safety

Supervision Given: Home Health Aides

Supervision Received: Director of Rehabilitation Services