SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST (SLP)

Position Title: Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

Job Type: Per diem

Department: Nursing

Supervisor’s Title: Nursing Manager/ Chief Nursing Officer

Job Summary

The Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) provides diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultative services to patients with speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders within a hospital setting. The SLP works with patients across the lifespan, from pediatric to geriatric populations, to evaluate and treat a variety of conditions, including speech delays, aphasia, dysphagia, voice disorders, and cognitive communication impairments. This role involves collaboration with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to develop and implement individualized treatment plans and ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Principal Functions and Responsibilities

I. Evaluation and Diagnosis

A. Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify speech, language, swallowing, and cognitive-communication disorders.

B. Administer formal and informal diagnostic tools and interpret results to diagnose speech and language impairments.

C. Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers to determine the scope of the patient's condition and develop treatment plans.

II. Treatment and Therapy

A. Provide direct speech, language, and swallowing therapy based on individual patient needs, including articulation, fluency, language comprehension, and cognitive communication interventions.

B. Develop, implement, and update individualized treatment plans (ITPs) for patients with disorders such as aphasia, dysarthria, dysphagia, and cognitive impairments.

C. Deliver evidence-based therapeutic interventions, including both individual and group therapy sessions, to improve speech, language, and swallowing function.

III. Patient Education and Family Support

A. Educate patients and their families about speech and language disorders, treatment options, and strategies to enhance communication and safety.

B. Provide training on communication techniques, home exercises, and dietary modifications for patients with dysphagia or other swallowing issues.

IV. Documentation and Reporting

A. Maintain accurate and timely patient records, including evaluations, treatment plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries, in accordance with hospital protocols and regulatory standards.

B. Track patient progress and adjust therapy goals as necessary, providing updates to the healthcare team.

V. Collaboration and Teamwork

A. Work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, to provide comprehensive care and address the holistic needs of patients.

B. Participate in case conferences, family meetings, and discharge planning to ensure continuity of care and optimal patient outcomes.

VI. Compliance and Safety

A. Adhere to hospital policies, procedures, and safety protocols, including infection control measures and confidentiality standards (e.g., HIPAA).

B. Maintain professional licensure and stay current with continuing education and industry standards.

VII. Quality Improvement

A. Participate in ongoing professional development and hospital quality improvement initiatives.

B. Contribute to the development and refinement of clinical protocols and best practices in speech therapy.

Qualifications

I. Education

A. High school diploma or equivalent

B. Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited institution.

II. Licensure and Certification

A. Current licensure as a Speech-Language Pathologist in the state of Idaho

B. Certification by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) (CCC-SLP) preferred.

C. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or equivalent required.

III. Experience

A. Experience in a hospital, healthcare, or rehabilitation setting preferred.

B. Experience working with a broad range of speech, language, and swallowing disorders across various age groups (pediatric to geriatric).

IV. Skills and Abilities

A. Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

B. Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary healthcare environment.

C. Knowledge of evidence-based practices in speech therapy.

D. Proficiency in using electronic medical records (EMR) and documentation tools.

E. Compassionate, patient-centered approach to care.

V. Physical Demands

A. Ability to lift or move patients as needed, with assistance, following appropriate safety protocols.

B. Ability to stand, sit, or walk for extended periods while working with patients.

C. Must be able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.

Work Environment

This position is based in a hospital setting, which may include inpatient units, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation areas. The work environment may include working with patients in acute, subacute, or chronic conditions, and it may involve emergency situations or working with critical care patients.