New London, New Hampshire
Overview:
- Evaluate, plan, direct and administer Physical Therapy modalities of treatment as prescribed by a licensed physician, performing all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors
- Has skills in the outpatient rehabilitation settings to effectively provide Physical Therapy evaluations and treatments.
- Should be flexible and responsive to providing care in alternative settings such as the inpatient unit for occasional cross-coverage and holiday coverage needs.
- Should at minimum be familiar with best practice and common ambulatory clinic pathologies, such as, but not limited to degenerative conditions, neurologic impairments, general orthopedics, and post-operative care.
- Should be proficient with rendering common treatment techniques such as, but not limited to; manual therapy, neuro rehab techniques, exercise modalities, and use of functional activities to help patients reach maximum function.
- Specialty therapy certifications are not required however may enhance consideration.
Responsibilities:
Clinical Practice:
- Administers treatments and occupational agents as prescribed by a referring physician in an effort to restore function and prevent disability following injury, disease or physical disability.
- Assists patients to reach their maximum performance and level of functioning, while learning to live within the limits of their capabilities.
- Observes and evaluates treatment affect. Recommends change to physician, if needed.
- Performs an appropriate evaluation and assessment on each patient, as related to the therapy requested and provided and reassessments, as per policy.
- Able to assess patient pain interfering with optimal level of function or participation in rehabilitation - makes appropriate physician contact for intervention.
- Formulates a teaching plan based on identified learning needs and evaluates effectiveness of learning; family is included in teaching, as appropriate.
- Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic and religious/spiritual needs of patients and their families.
- Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Maintains department cleanliness and safety.
- Interacts professionally with patient/family and involves patient/family in the formation of the plan of care.
- Communicates appropriately and clearly to physicians, staff and administrative team.
- Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients’ needs are met and hospital policy is followed.
- Consults other departments, as appropriate, to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities.
Administrative:
- Directs appropriate Physical Therapy Department staff, including: Physical Therapist Assistants; Rehabilitation Aides/Mobility Technicians; Physical Therapy or Physical Therapist Assistant certification applicants; and/or Physical Therapy or Physical Therapist Assistant students.
- Maintains records pertinent to the personnel and operation of the department.
- Meets current clinical documentation standards and policies.
- Assists with orientation and in-service training for certified department staff members.
- Participates in guidance and educational programs.
- Uses approved abbreviations when recording information.
- Ensures that patient charges are accurate and entered on a timely basis.
Qualifications:
- Graduate from an accredited school of Physical Therapy or equivalent.
- Experience in providing Physical Therapy within an outpatient care setting is preferred.
- New graduates or other therapists who have not worked in an outpatient setting may be considered.
Required Licensure/Certifications:
REQUIRED LICENSE(S):
• Licensed Physical Therapist with NH eligibility
REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS:
• (BLS) Basic Life Support
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Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health