Physical Therapist

Shift Information

Day shift: 5 eight-hour shifts or 4 ten-hour shifts are acceptable.

Minimum Years of Experience

1 year

Certifications/Requirements

• General Certifications: ACLS, BLS/BCLS, PALS, NRP
• Rehabilitation Certifications: ASHA, CHT, ACP Training

Job Description

The staff physical therapist will provide care to patients in various settings, including acute care, outpatient facilities, skilled nursing facilities, and emergency departments. The primary responsibilities include planning, preparing, and conducting customized physical therapy programs designed to maintain, improve, and restore physical function, alleviate pain, and prevent physical dysfunction.

The physical therapist will perform initial examinations, evaluate patient data to identify problems, and determine appropriate diagnoses before intervention. Throughout the treatment process, they will assess the impact of interventions at different stages and make necessary adjustments to therapies to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Key duties involve administering manual exercises and therapeutic modalities to enhance patient strength and minimize deformity or disability. The physical therapist is responsible for overseeing care delivered by physical therapy assistants, ensuring quality and continuity of patient care. They will also assist patients in achieving their maximum performance levels and adapting to any physical limitations.

Additionally, the therapist will collaborate with patients, medical practitioners, and other relevant personnel to plan, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention programs. They will review physician referrals and patient medical records to inform treatment strategies and will actively engage in the department’s operational aspects, including performance improvement initiatives and quality improvement activities.

The physical therapist is expected to comply with infection control protocols, participate in equipment training, and adhere to safety and fire safety programs.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Observe and evaluate treatment effects; recommend changes to the physician as needed.
• Perform comprehensive assessments and reassessments of all patients, including pediatric, adolescent, geriatric, and general populations.
• Assess patient pain impacting rehabilitation participation and consult with physicians for intervention as necessary.
• Develop a teaching plan based on identified learning needs and evaluate its effectiveness, involving family members when appropriate.
• Demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in all rehabilitation service modalities.
• Interact professionally with patients and families, fostering their involvement in care planning.
• Coordinate and direct patient care to meet needs while following hospital policies.
• Provide training to personnel as requested, including nursing and support staff.
• Utilize electronic medical record systems for accurate patient charting and billing.
• Stay updated on current trends and developments in rehabilitative medicine through literature and professional organizations.
• Maintain ethical standards and adherence to professional procedure guidelines.

Qualifications & Skills

• Previous experience in rehabilitative medicine preferred, but not required.
• Current California Physical Therapist License.
• Current BLS certification.
• Effective communication skills in English, both verbally and in writing; proficiency in additional languages is a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Knowledge of operation, maintenance, and repairs of physical therapy equipment.
• Ability to remain calm and composed during crisis situations.

Holiday Coverage

Required