Speech Pathologist

SUMMARY

Conducts evaluation and treatment of communication, cognitive, and swallowing disorders to enhance ability to communicate basic needs, to function cognitively at a maximal level, and to consume oral nutrition safely in the least restrictive manner.

The Speech Pathologist (ST) is responsible for working with other healthcare professionals and family members to educate and to assist patient in maximizing functional abilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Under the direction of a licensed physician, the therapist develops and implements patient treatment consistent with the objectives of the interdisciplinary treatment plan by performing comprehensive assessments, establishing realistic and measurable short and long term goals, and initiating appropriate actions based upon evaluation findings.

• The therapist implements appropriate treatment techniques to maximize patient function, promote healing and adjustment of disability.

• Adapts conventional therapy techniques to meet the needs of patient. Adaptations are based on the patients’ and families’ physical and cognitive capabilities, intelligence level, interests, and discharge plans.

• Provides patient care in a safe and therapeutic environment by maintaining the privacy of the patients and families.

• Provides education to the patients and family members from admission to discharge by providing individualized instructions to maximize function.

• In a timely manner, documents patients’ evaluation progress, interim assessments, and discharge summaries with updated goals.

• Updates, modifies, and prioritizes goals based on evaluations and re-evaluation of findings.

• Independently plans and arranges for patient discharges through communication with the interdisciplinary team; discharges patients with appropriated home programs, durable medical equipment, and referrals to other health care professionals.

• Demonstrates competency and knowledge of current standards of practice within the profession.

• Recognizes limitations and makes appropriate referrals to other therapists or health care professionals.

• Performs administrative duties such as scheduling of patients, charges, and patient documentation in an accurate and timely manner.

• Participates in staff and intern orientation/training.

• Engages in continuous quality improvement activities to evaluate compliance to standards, policies and procedures, and

  identifies strategies to improve patient care

EDUCATION/TRAINING/EXPERIENCE

• Master’s Degree in Accredited Speech Therapy Program

• Maintains current licensure in the State of Louisiana.

LICENSE(S), CERTIFICATION(S), REGISTRATION(S), ACCREDITATION(S)

• CPR Certification required within 30 days of hire.

EQUIPMENT OPERATED

• Computer

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

• Medium Work as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor constitutes a maximum lift of 21-50 pounds on occasion and/or a maximum lift of 11-25 pounds on a frequent basis
• May be required to assist in the turning, lifting, or moving patients as well as walking about from patients’ rooms, as well as to and from various hospital areas