Physical Therapist

Overview

The Physical Therapist provides prescribed treatments of physical therapy that involves a complex and sophisticated level of modalities designed to restore the client to his/her maximum rehabilitation potential.

Responsibilities

• Performs initial and ongoing physical therapy assessments to determine client functional level. This may include designated OASIS items for coordination of care among other disciplines.
• Performs direct therapeutic physical therapy services as planned by the Agency staff and certified by the client’s physician.
• Performs evaluation of equipment needs to increase functional level of clients.
• Assesses, reports, and records client’s status and progress to the physician and the Agency staff members. Performs interim evaluation, if necessary, for recertification.  Evaluates the effectiveness and outcomes of care.
• Teaches and supervises nurses, home health aides, caregivers, and clients to provide for a continuous physical therapy program.
• Consults with other Agency staff regarding goal setting and desired outcomes. Participates in clinical conferences and/or in-service programs to share with Agency staff in meeting rehabilitation goals.  Identifies barriers to desired outcomes.
• Delivers services to clients in accordance with accepted standards of treatment specifically effective for client conditions.
• Assists with the development, writing, and revision of the plan of care in collaboration with the Agency staff and the physician
• Consults with the Nurse Case Manager, Director of Professional Services, VP of Clinical Services, or designee regarding discharge planning with the client and caregiver. Notify the Agency of imminent discharge so proper notification can be mailed to the physician.
• Maintains appropriate clinical records in a prompt and comprehensive manner, documenting client limitations and progress.
• Develops and instructs Agency staff and caregivers in maintenance therapy programs as approved by the physician.
• Assumes responsibility for equipment signed out for client use.
• Evaluates designated OASIS items upon discharge from the services for coordination of care among other disciplines.

Qualifications

• Holds a current Physical Therapy License.
• Has graduated from an approved physical therapy program.
• One-year clinical experience.
• Has current CPR certification.
• Has excellent communication, organizational, and human relations skills.
• Is able to function with minimal supervision.
• Is able to manage multiple projects/changing priorities.
• Is able to employ critical thinking skills