Purpose of Position:
Under general supervision, with wide latitude for independent judgment, performs complex activities of a high professional level in the practice of physical therapy. May be responsible for the supervision of staff physical therapists and physical therapy assistants. Examines and evaluates the patient's condition and plans and administers treatments to promote optimal health. Seeks to relieve pain, improve the body's movement and function, maintain cardiopulmonary function, restore, maintain and promote optimal physical function and limit disabilities resulting from injury or disease. Acts in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal rules and regulations and physical therapy standards of care. All personnel perform related work.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Under general supervision, with latitude for the exercise of independent judgement, performs the following:
1. Evaluates and treats complex conditions of patients to identify problems and needs. Evaluates and implements appropriate treatment plans. Sets priorities and delivers or directs care to meet patient requirements.
2. Ensures that treatment precautions are taken in the implementation of the patient regimen, (e.g., cervical traction; thoracic, lumbar or pelvic fractures; cerebral pressure; I.V. or arteriole line monitoring).
3. Collaborates with health professionals from other disciplines, such as occupational therapy, speech and audiology, psychology, social work and other disciplines in the treatment and discharge planning of assigned patients.
4. Maintains adequate levels of supplies and materials and ensures proper functioning of equipment.
5. Participates in meetings on a clinical, departmental, interdisciplinary or other basis.
6. Participates in implementing and ensuring the maintenance of proper standards of physical therapy practice. Reviews clinical case records for accuracy and completeness.
7. Guides support staff in rendering routine patient care.
8. Provides teaching, guidance and direction to less experienced therapists in rendering care. Acts as a role model or team leader.
9. Assists in the preparation and implementation of training and educational activities for departmental staff and other appropriate staff.
10. Evaluates student performance and provides reports and guidance for improvement.
11. Assists in the design, coordination, development, implementation and evaluation of new physical therapy programs.
12. Participates in classes, conferences and workshops, and keeps staff up-to-date on recent developments in one or more clinical specialties in rehabilitation, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, orthopedics, neurology or cardiopulmonary diseases.
13. Prepares and submits reports and statistics on a regular and timely basis. Prepares records according to departmental procedures.
