Athletic Trainer I - Physical Therapy

Summary:

The Athletic Trainer I – Graduate Student provides essential support in the prevention, evaluation, and basic treatment of athletic injuries for local high schools, colleges, and community events. Under the direct supervision of licensed physicians, physical therapists, and certified athletic trainers, this role includes administering first aid, applying preventative taping and bracing, and assisting with injury management protocols. The Athletic Trainer will also participate in weekly sports medicine clinics and contribute to therapy services at assigned school locations, ensuring consistent and high-quality care for student athletes and the public.

Responsibilities:

• IMPLEMENTS ALL COMPONENTS OF A COMPREHENSIVE ATHLETIC INJURY/ILLNESS PREVENTION PROGRAM.
• Performs proper taping procedures as required.
• Monitors environmental conditions/risks where applicable.
• Performs maintenance checks on protective equipment.
• Educates athletes on proper stretching techniques.
• CONDUCTS A THOROUGH INITIAL CLINICAL EVALUATION OF INJURIES AND ILLNESSES COMMONLY SUSTAINED BY THE COMPETITIVE ATHLETE.
• Demonstrates thorough knowledge of functional anatomy.
• Demonstrates thorough knowledge of characteristic pathology of all common closed soft tissue injuries, open wounds, and fractures.
• Explains to athlete the human body's normal immediate and delayed physiological response to trauma.
• Demonstrates ability to recognize observable clinical signs associated with common athletic injuries.
• Locates and palpates key anatomical structures commonly involved in injury pathology.
• PROVIDES APPROPRIATE FIRST AID AND EMERGENCY FOR ACUTE ATHLETIC INJURY/ILLNESSES.
• Demonstrates proper knowledge of application of first aid procedures.
• Demonstrates proper knowledge of application of immobilization devices including cervical collars, spine boards, and splints.
• Makes appropriate referrals to physician or emergency room where applicable.
• OBTAINS KNOWLEDGE OF AND DEMONSTRATES COMPLIANCE WITH INFECTION CONTROL POLICIES
• Practices standard precautions in patient care activities.
• Appropriately handles and disposes of sharps.
• Appropriately disposes of all biohazardous materials.
• Educates coaches and athletes on risk factors associated with exposure to blood and body secretions.
• PROVIDES HEALTH CARE INFORMATION AND COUNSELS ATHLETES, PARENTS, AND COACHES ON MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE PHYSICAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL, AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH AND WELL BEING OF THE ATHLETE.
• Acts as a liaison between physicians, coaches, athletes, and parents.
• Counsel’s athletes regarding the psychological effects of physical injury.
• Educates coaches and administrators on signs of common eating disorders where applicable.
• Counsels coaches and athletes on the ill effects of commonly abused drugs, including performance enhancing drugs.
• PLANS AND IMPLEMENTS A COMPREHENSIVE REHABILITATION OR RECONDITIONING PROGRAM FOR THE INJURED ATHLETE.
• Demonstrates through knowledge of Manual Muscle testing techniques.
• Demonstrates through knowledge of goniometry and other commonly used measurement techniques.
• Demonstrates ability to properly instruct athletes in the proper use of crutches.
• Demonstrates through knowledge of the proper use of therapeutic modalities.
• REPRESENTS CHRISTUS HOSPITAL IN A POSITIVE PROFESSIONAL MANNER.
• Deals with physicians in a professional manner while ensuring accurate communication of all information.
• Interacts with all hospital departments to promote effective and efficient utilization of resources.
• Gives clients respect at all times, shows concern for personal confidentiality and information sensitivity.

Job Requirements:

Education/Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in athletic training or a related field is required.
• Basic use of computer-based injury tracking programs, MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint.

Experience

• 1 - 2 years of experience in High School or College athletic training preferred.

Licenses, Registrations, or Certifications

• BLS is required.
• Athletic Trainer licensure in the state of employment is required within 6 months of hire.

In accordance with the CHRISTUS Health License, Certification and Registration Verification Policy, all Associates are required to obtain the required certifications for their respective positions within the designated time frame.

Work Schedule:

5 Days - 8 Hours

Work Type:

Full Time