Acute Care Physical Therapist

POSITION PURPOSE

Under general supervision of the Director of Therapy Services, organizes and conducts medically prescribed physical therapy programs in the hospital to restore function and prevent disability following disease, injury or loss of a body part; helps patient reach his maximum performance and assume a place in society while learning to live within the limits of his/her capabilities.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Every effort has been made to make this job description as complete as possible. However, it in no way states or implies that these are the only duties the incumbent will be required to perform. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or is a logical assignment to the position.

• Plans therapy program for each patient, involving physical means, such as exercise, massage, heat, water, light, and electricity, as prescribed by physician.
• Applies diagnostic and prognostic muscles, nerves, joints, and functional ability tests.
• Directs and aids patient in active and passive exercises, muscle reeducation, and gait and functional training utilizing pulleys and weights, steps, and inclined surfaces.
• Gives whirlpool and contrast baths and applies moist packs.
• Directs patient in care and use of wheelchairs, walkers, standers, braces, crutches, and prosthetic and orthoptic devices.
• Gives instruction in posture control and therapeutic procedures to be continued by the patient. Develops, instruct and monitor home exercise program.
• Adapts conventional physical therapy techniques to meet the needs of patients unable to comprehend verbal commands or voluntarily carries out a regime of therapeutic exercises.
• Evaluates, records, and reports on patient's progress for review by other members of the rehabilitative team.
• Maintains department records, reports, and patient records. Utilizes proper documentation as required, including daily patient notes utilizing SOAP format.
• Maintains department policies, procedures, objectives, and quality assurance programs, safety, environmental and infection control. Assists in care and maintenance of department equipment and supplies.
• Enhances professional development through participation in educational programs, in-service meetings, etc.
• Requisitions supplies and equipment.
• Conducts or participates in training medical and nursing personnel and other workers in physical therapy techniques and objectives.
• Abides by the HMH Legal Compliance Code of Conduct.
• Maintains patient confidentiality and appropriate handling of PHI.
• Maintains a safe work environment and reports safety concerns appropriately.
• Performs all other related duties as assigned.

LATITUDE, CONTACTS/INTERACTIONS

All positions of Huntsville Memorial Hospital are part of an interdisciplinary team, and as such, participate in the care and service delivery process through effective interaction with other team members. Primarily interacts with hospital staff, medical staff, patients, and visitors.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy required, Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience: none required, prior cardiac rehab experience preferred.
• Licensure/Certification: Current Physical Therapist license required. Basic Life Support certification required within 60 days of employment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

• Frequent: lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, standing & walking.
• Occasional: reaching, bending, squatting, climbing kneeling, twisting.
• Visual and hearing acuity required. Work is inside, with good ventilation and comfortable temperature.
• Possible exposure to: toxic/caustic chemicals or detergents, moving mechanical parts, potential electric shock, radiant energy, communicable diseases, blood borne pathogens.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Wellness Resources