Physical Therapist - Outpatient - Rehab Services

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health•New London, NH

About The Position

Overview Evaluate, plan, direct and administer Physical Therapy modalities of treatment as prescribed by a licensed physician, performing all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors Has skills in the outpatient rehabilitation settings to effectively provide Physical Therapy evaluations and treatments. Should be flexible and responsive to providing care in alternative settings such as the inpatient unit for occasional cross-coverage and holiday coverage needs. Should at minimum be familiar with best practice and common ambulatory clinic pathologies, such as, but not limited to degenerative conditions, neurologic impairments, general orthopedics, and post-operative care. Should be proficient with rendering common treatment techniques such as, but not limited to; manual therapy, neuro rehab techniques, exercise modalities, and use of functional activities to help patients reach maximum function. Specialty therapy certifications are not required however may enhance consideration.

Requirements

Graduate from an accredited school of Physical Therapy or equivalent.
Experience in providing Physical Therapy within an outpatient care setting is preferred.
New graduates or other therapists who have not worked in an outpatient setting may be considered.
REQUIRED LICENSE(S): • Licensed Physical Therapist with NH eligibility
REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS: • (BLS) Basic Life Support

Nice To Haves

Specialty therapy certifications are not required however may enhance consideration.

Responsibilities

Clinical Practice:
Administers treatments and occupational agents as prescribed by a referring physician in an effort to restore function and prevent disability following injury, disease or physical disability.
Assists patients to reach their maximum performance and level of functioning, while learning to live within the limits of their capabilities.
Observes and evaluates treatment affect. Recommends change to physician, if needed.
Performs an appropriate evaluation and assessment on each patient, as related to the therapy requested and provided and reassessments, as per policy.
Able to assess patient pain interfering with optimal level of function or participation in rehabilitation - makes appropriate physician contact for intervention.
Formulates a teaching plan based on identified learning needs and evaluates effectiveness of learning; family is included in teaching, as appropriate.
Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic and religious/spiritual needs of patients and their families.
Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Maintains department cleanliness and safety.
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.
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.
Administrative:
Directs appropriate Physical Therapy Department staff, including: Physical Therapist Assistants; Rehabilitation Aides/Mobility Technicians; Physical Therapy or Physical Therapist Assistant certification applicants; and/or Physical Therapy or Physical Therapist Assistant students.
Maintains records pertinent to the personnel and operation of the department.
Meets current clinical documentation standards and policies.
Assists with orientation and in-service training for certified department staff members.
Participates in guidance and educational programs.
Uses approved abbreviations when recording information.
Ensures that patient charges are accurate and entered on a timely basis.