Job Description
Evaluate, plan, and implement physical therapy treatment programs for referred patients to restore function, prevent disability, reduce pain, and maximize patient outcomes. Follow The Christ Hospital and department policies regarding documentation, attendance, education, etc. Show respect and courtesy to all staff, patients, and visitors.
Responsibilities
- Patient Evaluation:
- Select appropriate assessment tools (observation, ROM, strength, palpation) and document findings objectively.
- Develop individualized treatment plans aligned with patient diagnosis, status, and goals; record in flowsheet.
- Establish realistic, measurable goals considering patient factors and lifestyle.
- Complete evaluations per departmental policy.
- Assess equipment needs and follow-up requirements.
- Send treatment plans to MD before first follow-up, if required.
- Reassessment:
- Record Pain Analogue Score at each visit.
- Record objective measures (ROM, MMT, gait, etc.) at least every eighth visit.
- Update goals based on objective data.
- Provide physician updates at least every 10th visit or 30 days.
- Treatment:
- Implement treatment plans collaboratively.
- Supervise staff and interns appropriately.
- Adhere to safety standards and report incidents.
- Progress and revise treatment programs to meet goals; document progression.
- Discharge patients to home exercise programs if goals are not progressing.
- Educate patients and families on evaluation results, treatment, and home exercises.
- Utilize current treatment techniques and continuing education.
- Be available for walk-ins.
- May include topical drug application and pelvic disorder treatment, per state law.
- Documentation:
- Achieve 95% or higher on departmental and Medicare documentation audits.
- Complete all documentation accurately and timely.
- Ensure handwriting is neat; use approved abbreviations.
- Comply with organizational and regulatory standards.
- Document exercise progression thoroughly.
- Complete progress notes before physician visits.
- Professional Development:
- Participate in performance improvement activities.
- Assist in data collection for surveys and measures.
- Articulate departmental outcomes and improvements.
- Engage in educational opportunities to enhance skills.
- Complete mandatory education requirements.
- Mentor colleagues and orient new staff and interns.
- Contribute to intern clinical programs.
- Participate in community activities like screenings and lectures.
- Maintain a positive professional image.
- Promote the physical therapy profession.
- Productivity/Department Management:
- Meet productivity benchmarks.
- Manage time effectively, including documentation and inventory.
- Coordinate equipment maintenance and repairs.
- Participate in marketing efforts.
- Understand revenue cycle processes.
- Respond promptly to clerical requests.
- Use hospital information systems appropriately.
- Foster a positive work environment.
Qualifications
Knowledge and Skills:
- Degree in physical therapy from an APTA-approved school.
- Prefer one year outpatient experience; new grads considered.
- Customer service and interpersonal skills.
- Interest in women's and men's health preferred.
Licenses & Certifications:
- Licensed to practice Physical Therapy.
- CPR certified.