DUTIES

Provides skilled Physical Therapy services on an intermittent basis to Clients in their homes under direction from the Registered Physical Therapist

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Under the direction of a Registered Physical Therapist (PT) provides Client services which have been delegated by the PT

2. Under the supervision of the physical therapist, assists in evaluation and development of a rehabilitative plan of care and in periodic re-evaluation as required

3. Participates in the preparation of clinical and daily progress notes, all notes are reviewed by the PT and submitted per agency policy, also prepares periodic summary reports

4. As directed, performs routine strengthening and therapeutic exercises and assists the Client with the use of self-help devices

5. Together with the PT, instructs the Client and family and assists in teaching exercise programs to the Client and family

6. Identifies possible ineffective drug therapy or adverse reactions, significant side effects, drug allergies, and contra-indicated medication and reports same to the PT

7. Observes, and records activities and findings in the clinical record and reports to the PT and the physician the Client's reaction to treatment and any changes in the Client's condition

8. Consults with PT regarding the outcome of home visits and reports physical findings in written form

9. Under the supervision of the Physical Therapist, assists in evaluation and development of the rehabilitative plan of care and in periodic re-evaluation as indicated

10. Instructs other health team personnel including, as appropriate, Home Health Aides, as well as family members with respect to certain phases of physical therapy, so that they may work with the Client

11. Writes daily progress notes on Clients, and submits same per agency policy, and prepares periodic summary reports as indicated

12. Attends rehabilitation department staff meetings and case conferences

13. Participates with staff, Clients, and physicians in discharge activities and assists the Physical Therapist in completing the Physical Therapy Discharge Summary

14. Confirms, on a weekly basis, the scheduling of visits with the Supervisor/Service Supervisor in order to coordinate Agency visits

15. Assumes responsibility for self-development by continually striving to improve his/her health care knowledge through educational programs, attendance at workshops and conferences, active participation in professional and related organizations and individual research and reading

16. Assumes other duties deemed appropriate and necessary by the PT and as designated by Registered Nurse Case Management and the Supervisor

Assists in the Agency Admission Process

1. Obtains a medical history, particularly as it relates to the present condition

2. Evaluates the Client, the Client’s significant other(s) and the home situation to determine what instruction will be required, what assistance will be available from the family in caring for the Client, and what other Agency and community services will be required

3. Assures that the physician’s orders are appropriate and discusses necessary changes

JOB CONDITIONS

1. The ability to drive and the ability to access Clients’ homes which may not be routinely wheelchair accessible are required.

2. Hearing, eyesight and physical dexterity must be sufficient to perform a physical assessment of the Client's condition and to perform Client care.

3. On occasion, may be required to bend, stoop, reach and move Client weight up to 250 pounds; lift and/or carry up to 30 pounds.

4. Must be able to effectively communicate in English