GENERAL SUMMARY AND SCOPE

Under the direction of the Director, evaluates, plans and administers medically prescribed physical therapy treatments to patients. Directs and aids patients in active and passive exercises, muscle re‑education and gait training to restore function and prevent disability following disease, injury, or loss of body parts.

ESSENTIAL TASKS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs a comprehensive physical, psychosocial, and safety assessment of assigned patients as evidence by clinical documentation. Selects appropriate evaluation tools consistent with the patient’s diagnosis, history and medical status. Identifies those functional problems that require intervention based on an accurate assessment of the patient’s status. Evaluates and documents the ability of the patient and caregiver to participate in care. Records results of evaluation in measurable terms. Completes all initial paperwork on time according to hospital policy.
• Develops a plan of care to promote optimum function and safety as documented in the clinical record. Incorporates patient and caregiver goals into the plan of care. Establishes interventions and specific measurable outcomes that are consistent with identified problems. Goals and outcomes are realistic, measurable, and address functional needs. Modifies and updates the plan of care as patient status warrants.
• Plans for and provides skilled physical therapy treatment, reassessing the patient’s status on each visit and ensuring quality of care as documented in the clinical record. Selects and performs therapeutic techniques that are appropriate to patient’s problems and medical status and that reflect integration of the therapist’s clinical knowledge and theory.
• Coordinates patient care with other clinical team members ensuring optimal patient care and communication as noted in the clinical record. Collaborates and updates other team members about changes in patient status and plan of care. Participates in care conferences. Notifies physician of any changes in patient’s status or service verbally and in writing according to hospital policy. Delegates patient care interventions to the Physical Therapy Assistant following hospital policy and guidelines established by the APTA.
• Completes all required paperwork to ensure that documentation reflects care provided and the outcomes achieved as evidenced by the clinical record.
• Displays positive customer relations in performance of duties.
• Regularly demonstrates the ability to serve patients of all ages in the routine performance of duties.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Bachelor's degree from a program accredited by the APTA or a Bachelor's degree in science with an APTA certification in physical therapy or the equivalent, as determined by the APTA licensing board and/or management.
• Licensure in the state of Ohio.
• Demonstrated ability to keep abreast of new research and practices in the field so as to provide the patients the best possible care and treatment.
• Two years of clinical experience with a varied patient population.
• Current CPR certification.
• FIM Certification preferred.
• Must possess a valid State of Ohio motor vehicle operator's license and be insurable under Firelands' auto policy. Employee must provide proof of personal automobile liability insurance coverage upon request.
• Ability to lift an average size patient and be mobile.
• Ability to understand and effectively communicate in both written and oral form.
• Punctual attendance at assigned work location is required.
• Ability to work in a safe and efficient manner and maintain an accident free work place, including ability to demonstrate a working knowledge of emergency codes.
• Ability to comply with OSHA regulations and CDC standard and transmission-based precaution recommendations and to utilize proper personal protective equipment. Ability to comply with provisions of applicable S.D.S. forms.
• Successful completion of a 90 day probationary period.