Pediatric Speech Therapist Per Diem

Saint Peters Healthcare System

About The Position

The Pediatric Speech Therapist evaluates neonate, pediatric, and adolescent patients with speech, language, voice, oral motor, and feeding disorders to determine their level of function. The therapist develops and delivers age- and developmentally appropriate treatment programs, documents clinical findings, and works closely with medical staff and other healthcare professionals. The role also participates in clinical education and departmental program development and practices in accordance with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s Code of Ethics. The therapist evaluates patients using objective tests, measurements, and clinical observations; develops plans of care and anticipated outcomes based on a written and signed physician’s order or prescription; and provides treatment using therapeutic positioning and facilitation techniques, appropriate activities, and patient, parent, and caregiver education. The therapist may order adaptive equipment to support patients in reaching their maximum performance levels. Responsibilities also include completing assessments, reassessments, progress notes, and caseload-related clerical work and statistics in accordance with department policies and procedures. Treatments, procedures, protocols, and equipment use must meet established standards and fall within the scope of speech therapy practice.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology from a college or university accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Speech-Language Pathology (CAA).
Current New Jersey state license and registration in Speech and Language Pathology, or eligibility for them.
BLS certification approved by the American Heart Association.
Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) in Speech-Language Pathology.
Analytical ability and the ability to use independent judgment.
Sufficient interpersonal and communication skills to interact with patients, parents, caregivers, students, therapists, and other healthcare professionals.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience, especially in Pediatric Rehabilitation.
NDT certification; preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Evaluate and assess neonate, pediatric, and adolescent patients with speech, language, voice, oral motor, and feeding disorders.
Use appropriate objective tests, measurements, and clinical observations to assess patients in view of their age, growth, and development.
Develop a therapeutic plan of care and anticipated outcomes for each patient in accordance with a written and signed physician’s order or prescription.
Deliver treatment using therapeutic positioning and facilitation techniques, developmentally appropriate activities, and patient, parent, or caregiver education and training.
Order adaptive equipment to help patients reach their maximum performance levels and achieve appropriate outcomes.
Document initial assessments, reassessments, and progress notes according to department policy and procedure.
Perform treatments, procedures, and protocols in accordance with established standards and demonstrate competency with required equipment.
Communicate and work closely with medical staff and other healthcare professionals.
Participate in clinical education programs and departmental program development in assigned areas.
Complete clerical work for the assigned caseload and maintain required data and statistics.
Practice in accordance with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s Code of Ethics.