Speech Language Pathologist

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for administration and direct application of Speech-Language Pathology treatment modalities as prescribed by a referring physician. Evaluates, plans, directs and treats all patients referred to Speech-Language Pathology. Speech-Language Pathology treatments help to restore function and prevent disability following disease or injury. Assists patients to obtain maximum performance and function in society while learning to live a routine "normal" life within the constraints of their disability.

Participates in performance improvement activities within the department. Provides information related to departmental budget considerations in relationship to Speech-Language Pathology's needs for optimum patient care and service. Performs some administrative duties at the delegation of the Rehabilitation Services Director.

Reporting Structure: Reports to the Rehabilitation Services Director

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Education

Master's degree from an accredited college in Speech-Language Pathology.

.

Work Experience

Must have one (1) year participation in an accredited Clinical Residency program.

License/Certification

Current TN Licensure as a Speech-Language Pathologist.

Current BLS certification required

CORE COMPETENCIES

Mission, Vision

Core Values/Standards of Conduct

AIDET/Organizational Expectations

Safety

Quality

Flexibility

Customer Service

Diversity and Inclusion

Finance

Abuse and Neglect of Adult Patient

Abuse and Neglect of Pediatric Patient

Acute Coronary Syndrome/Chest Pain Protocols

Biohazard Waste

CC Hand Hygiene

JOB SPECIFIC CORE COMPETENCIES

Knowledge of speech therapy standard equipment, concepts, practices, and procedures.

Diverse patient treatment standards

Patient Rights

HIPAA

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Upon physician referral, performs patient evaluations to determine deficits and goals.

Able to assess patient pain interfering with optimal level of function or participation in rehabilitation; makes appropriate physician contact for intervention.

Develops and implements effective treatment programs in consultation with physicians.

Treats patients in accordance with Speech-Language Pathology standards of care and practice.

Formulates an appropriate plan of care based upon identified deficits and evaluates effectiveness of treatment; family is included as appropriate.

Formulates a teaching plan based upon identified learning needs and evaluates effectiveness of learning; family is included in teaching as appropriate.

Performs examinations, such as swallowing examinations, accurately and communicates results timely to all appropriate members of the healthcare team, patient and family as appropriate.

Documents appropriately in the medical record for all Speech-Language Pathology treatments, assessments and evaluations performed for the inpatient and outpatient population.

Intercedes for the patient when dietary revisions are necessary to prevent aspiration.

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.

Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.

Supports and maintains a culture of safety, empathy and quality.

Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses

psychosocial, cultural, ethnic and religious/spiritual needs of patients and their families.

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.

Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.

Maintains a good working relationship both within the department and with other departments.

Prepares reports related to Speech-Language Pathology activities.

Participates in departmental education, i.e., staff orientation, inservices.

Maintains professional standards and ethical behavior.

OTHER DUTIES

Completes annual education requirements to maintain appropriate certification and licensure.

Maintains regulatory requirements.

Maintains patient confidentiality and privacy at all times.

Performs other duties and special project work as required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Working irregular hours including call hours

Physically demanding, high-stress environment

Exposure to blood and body fluids, communicable diseases, chemicals, radiation, and repetitive motions

Pushing and pulling heavy objects

Full range of body motion including handling and lifting patients

Position requires light to moderate work with 50 pounds maximum weight to lift and carry.

Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds during a scheduled work shift.

Position requires reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, talking and/or hearing, and seeing.

Prolonged periods of standing and walking

Must be able to see with corrective eye wear

Must be able to hear clearly with assistance

May be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases

Able to handle emergency and/or crisis situations

May be required to wear protective equipment as necessary

Transferring, repositioning patients.

Reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, and crouching for patient care functions.

Ability to perform effectively in a stressful and fast-paced environment.

Ability to pass all required health and other screening tests including random and reasonable suspicion drug screens.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

Activity

Occasionally (1-33%)

Frequently (34% to 66%)

Continuously (67% to 100%)

Sitting

X

Walking

X

Standing

X

Bending

X

Squatting

X

Climbing

X

X

Kneeling

X

Twisting

X

Lifting

X

Carrying

X

Pushing

X