Physical Therapist

Kern Valley Healthcare District•Lake Isabella, CA

About The Position

The staff physical therapist evaluates and treats patients in acute care, outpatient, skilled nursing facility, and emergency department settings. The role involves designing, preparing, and implementing individualized treatment programs to maintain, improve, or restore physical function, alleviate pain, and prevent physical dysfunction. The therapist assesses patients, provides and monitors interventions, coordinates care with patients and other healthcare personnel, and contributes to department operations and quality improvement. The position is a day-shift role with either five eight-hour shifts or four ten-hour shifts. Holiday coverage is not required.

Requirements

At least 1 year of experience.
Current California Physical Therapist License.
Current BLS certification.
Effective English communication skills, both verbal and written.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Basic computer knowledge.
Understanding of physical therapy machine operation and maintenance.
Ability to remain calm and composed during crisis situations, such as a Code Blue.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in rehabilitative medicine.
Additional language skills.
ACLS, BLS/BCLS, PALS, or NRP certifications.
ASHA, CHT, or ACP rehabilitation certifications.

Responsibilities

Perform and document initial examinations, evaluate patient data, and determine diagnoses before intervention.
Administer manual exercises and therapeutic modalities to improve strength and prevent deformity and disability.
Oversee and direct physical therapy assistants to ensure quality and continuity of care.
Help patients reach their maximum functional levels while adapting to physical limitations.
Collaborate with patients, medical practitioners, and other personnel to assess and implement intervention programs.
Review physician referrals and medical records to establish diagnoses and appropriate treatment.
Participate in department operations, performance improvement initiatives, and Quality Improvement activities.
Follow infection control procedures and safety and fire safety programs.
Observe and evaluate treatment effects and recommend changes to physicians when necessary.
Assess patients across all demographics and evaluate pain that may interfere with rehabilitation, communicating with physicians when further intervention is needed.
Develop and evaluate teaching plans based on identified learning needs, involving families when appropriate.
Demonstrate proficiency in rehabilitation modalities and interact professionally with patients and families, involving them in care planning.
Coordinate patient care to meet individual needs and comply with hospital policies.
Provide on-the-job training to personnel as needed, including nursing and departmental staff.
Use electronic medical record systems for patient charting and billing.
Stay current on rehabilitative medicine trends and developments through professional literature.
Maintain ethical standards and professional behavior in accordance with society procedures.