Physical Therapist - Acute Care

Physical Therapy

Work where every moment matters. Every day, more than 40,000 Hartford HealthCare colleagues come to work with one thing in common: Pride in what we do, knowing every moment matters here. We invite you to become part of Connecticut's most comprehensive healthcare network. St. Vincent's Medical Center in Bridgeport has more than 3,200 employees. It includes a 473-bed community teaching hospital, a 76-bed inpatient psychiatric facility in Westport, a large multispecialty provider group, and special needs services for adults and children. St. Vincent's is the first hospital in Fairfield County to be integrated into the Hartford HealthCare network, and is the system's second-largest hospital.

Overview

We are currently seeking a Physical Therapist (PT) to join our acute care team at St. Vincent's Medical Center. The Physical Therapist (PT) administers medically prescribed Physical Therapy treatments to patients. The Physical Therapist (PT) independently evaluates patient's level of function, determines treatment strategies, and delivers and/or delegates Physical Therapy services that identify, prevent, remediate, and rehabilitate acute or prolonged physical dysfunction or pain. This role encompasses evaluation skills and techniques, analysis of patients, and therapeutic application of physical and chemical agents, prescription of exercise and other procedures to maximize the patient's functional independence.

Responsibilities

Upon Physician referral, the Physical Therapist (PT) performs thorough examination and evaluation of patient's level of function, including evaluations for strength, movement, motor control, joint mobility, soft tissue integrity, pain, balance, coordination, posture, cardiopulmonary function by assessing and monitoring vitals, endurance, gait and functional abilities in activities of daily living. Establishes measurable goals with the patient/family based on appropriate patient care protocols and critical paths in order to meet patient needs. Implements, delivers and delegates patient care by utilizing appropriate interventions and clinical decision making including but not limited to modalities such as heat, cold, light, water, sound, electricity, mobilization and therapeutic exercise. Provides patient and caregiver education regarding treatment, precautions, and equipment use. Participates in patient transition planning and/or patient discharge planning including recommendations to community resources to meet patient needs throughout the continuum of care. Help to coordinate patient care with other care providers such as Rehab Therapists, Nurses, Social Workers, and other community resources as related to care transition planning. Delegates patient care tasks and provide clinical supervision for Physical Therapist students, Rehabilitation Aides and Physical Therapist Assistants.

Qualifications

Bachelors, Masters or Doctoral Degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Acute Care experience preferred, however, open to new graduates. Current State of CT Physical Therapy license required or active temporary license at time of hire. Knowledge, Skills and Ability Requirements Must be flexible, a team player and able to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Works efficiently and organizes time appropriately. Ability to prioritize daily work assignments. Ability to read and understand oral and written instructions, and effectively communicate information. Basic computer skills (including opening/reading email, basic internet use). Proficient skills in windows-based software (including word processing, database, spreadsheet and presentation programs). Working knowledge of State Practice Act and Federal Medicaid and Medicare regulations. Excellent interpersonal skills. Demonstrates competence, including knowledge and behaviors, to meet age-specific patients' needs. Maintains infection control policies related to patient care. Ability to exercise independent judgement. Able to adapt to a changing environment.