Physical Therapist

General Purpose of Job:

Assumes full responsibility for evaluating patient's need for physical therapy. Plans and executes individual treatment programs in accordance with the State of Michigan licensure and PT scope of practice. Keeps treatment skills upgraded through continuing education, evidence based research, and program development. Perform job responsibilites in accordance with the program's strategic objectives and goals to carry out organizational strategic objectives.

Essential Duties:

This job description is intended to cover the minimum essential duties assigned on a regular basis. Associates may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned by their leader. Leadership has the right to alter or modify the duties of the position.

• Evaluate and assess patient's functional status. Such areas of assessment include range of motion, strength, reflexes, tone, posture, gait, orthotic or prosthetic fit and sensorimotor function, wheelchair seating etc..
• Develop realistic, functional goals mutually agreed upon with the patient / family. Treatment goals should be interdisciplinary and patient-centered whenever possible.
• Employ principles of teaching and learning to educate patients and their families in the knowledge and skills that promote functional restoration of mobility.
• Perform treatment according to the established plan, utilizing all available modalities (i.e. heat / cold, hydrotherapy, electrical stimulation, massage, joint mobilization, exercise etc.), equipment and techniques within the scope of physical therapy.
• Document patient's status and progress through initial evaluation, progress notes and discharge summary according to established internal/external time standards and adherence to reimbursement guidelines.
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team in assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating the patient's care, rehabilitation programs, and related rehabilitation activities.
• Actively participate in case conference, care rounds, and family meetings to progress patient toward rehab goals and discharge planning.
• Re-evaluate patients, assess their progress, and make recommendations as to their discharge planning.
• Revise treatment plan as necessary. Reviews revised goals with patient and family as appropriate.
• Maintain professional standards by participating in inservices and hospital / department requirements.
• Delegates, directs, and supervises implementation of care to PTA, PCT, and physical therapy students.
• Evaluates patient's need for medical equipment and work with discharge planning/physicians to order the appropriate equipment as necessary. Evaluates equipment upon delivery and instructs patient, patient's family and health care workers on its use.
• Participates in planning for patient discharge by considering and communicating with patient, family, community support/services and environmental limitations.
• Follows all hospital policy and procedures related to infection control
• Meets or exceeds program productivity expectations
• Provides discipline specific coverage (following cross training) within Sparrow Hospital system as requested
• Supports program operations as assigned.

Other Job Responsibilities:

* May serve as a clinical instructor for physical therapy students. Supervises, teaches, and evaluates skills of students and volunteers. Communicates with participating universities regarding skill level of students.

* May participate in program development as assigned.

* May participate in orientation and training of new staff.

* Assists in maintaining clean and orderly treatment areas.

* Demonstrates competence in relevant software and hardware required to meet job responsibilities.

Required Responsibilities of the Associate:

• Demonstrates knowledge and maintains and respects patient right to privacy by following the HIPAA Privacy and Security policies and procedures.
• Adheres to ICARE values and standards of behavior (Innovation, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, Excellence).
• Role model behaviors that value the diversity of our associates, patients and customers and supports creating an environment that is inclusive, welcoming and respectful.
• Communicates with patients, families and customers using AIDET (Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation, Thank).
• Works in a safe manner and promptly reports any hazards identified in the work environment or related to assigned responsibilities.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience Required:

Education:

• Graduate of an American Physical Therapy Association accredited Physical Therapy program.

License / Certification:

• State of Michigan PT licensure.
• Possess and maintain CPR certification to meet department/program protocol (within 6 months of hire).

Experience:

Skills & Abilities:

• Effective written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, ability to perform multiple tasks and adapt to changing work situations.
• Able to demonstrate the knowledge and skill necessary to provide care based on physical, psycho / social, educational, safety and related criteria, appropriate to the age of the patients serviced in her / his assigned service area as related to the principle duties and responsibilities of the position. The skills and knowledge needed to provide such care might be gained through education, training and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience Preferred:

• Experience in physical disabilities.
• Minimum of two years experience in inpatient rehabilitation

Physical Aspects of this Position:

Work Environment:

• Usually work as part of a team under the direction of a supervisor and/or manager. May supervise physical therapy assistants and rehab support staff. Physical Therapists often work with physicians, nurses, social workers, occupational therapists and other specialists.
• Physical Therapists experience the sights, sounds, odors, and patient behaviors typically found in places that treat the sick and injured.
• May be subject to emotionally lability of medical guests and/or family members.
• They usually work indoors in well-lighted, comfortable, well-equipped surroundings.
• The job can be physically and mentally exhausting.
• In addition to standing for long periods, Therapists must move equipment and help patients turn, stand, or walk. Some exercise techniques are tiring for both the patient and the Therapist.
• Typically, Therapists work an 8-hour day, 40-hour week.
• Occasional travel (for community outings).
• Variable hours according to clinic hours.