Position Description

Reviews physician referrals for physical therapy services. Performs patient evaluations and develops treatment programs to effect rehabilitation or prevent incapacitating disabilities following diseases, injuries, or loss of limbs. Directs and assists patients in various types of therapeutic interventions including but not limited to: therapeutic modalities, neuromuscular education, transfer techniques, gait training, and exercises, and applies diagnostic and prognostic muscle, nerve, joint, and functional ability tests. Documents all relevant clinical information during the course of care according to the department and hospital standards including evaluation, treatment progress, treatment goals, therapy modifications as needed, and discharge information. Consults frequently with patients, families/caregivers, and other medical staff members to coordinate the patient’s total treatment plan and facilitate discharge, and recommend patient referrals to other disciplines as needed. Provides instruction to patients, families, and caregivers on the proper use of assistive and mobility devices, and develops exercise programs for hospitals and/or homes. Modifies daily work schedule, as needed, according to caseload and patient acuity. Assists in developing and implementing new rehabilitation programs. Performs various routine tasks and duties such as posting charges, scheduling appointments, preparing reports, stocking linen, and assisting in transporting and moving patients. Cleans and maintains physical therapy equipment, supplies, and facilities, as necessary and according to manufacturers and hospital policies. Conducts in-service education and training programs for other hospital personnel, as well as community health programs, as directed. Education of patient, family, and other professionals is instituted and documented; education is provided in a manner that effectively meets the needs of the learner. Practices proper safety and infection control techniques in accordance with hospital and departmental policies and procedures.  Immediately reports any mechanical or electrical equipment malfunctions, unsafe conditions, or employee/patient/visitor injury accident to the Manager, Coordinator, or Supervisor. Demonstrates competency in all areas of assessment and treatment in accordance with assigned work area(s) and completes all competency requirements unless deemed not applicable (N/A) by the assigned leadership. Practices proper handling, usage, and storage of medications used for topical physical therapy services following the manufacturer’s guidelines and in accordance with state regulations and licensure restrictions and according to physician direction; adheres to medication securement principles and patient identification practices. Supported departmental and hospital performance improvement initiatives; provides input to improve safety and services. Completes all of the following: clinical instructor education course, 1+-student assignments per year.

Position Requirements

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES/LICENSE OR CERTIFICATION REQUIRED

Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited school of Physical Therapy. Licensed as a Physical Therapist by the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy. Must be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for all age groups. Applicants must have at least two (2) years of licensed current experience post-residency/new graduate orientation in the clinical areas in which they will be working. Internal candidates must attain the minimum PE score to transfer (prior year), no disciplinary action on file, and no red rule violation. Must meet competency requirements for the Choice+ Program.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES/LICENSE OR CERTIFICATION PREFERRED

A minimum of one (1) year of travel experience with an external or internal agency program (excluding float pools). Working knowledge of Medicare, Medicaid, and other government regulations.

Service Area Overview