Physical Therapist I

Physical Therapist

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.

Merrimack Health