Physical Therapist

Reviews physician's referral (prescription) and patient's condition and medical records to determine physical therapy treatment required.

• Plans and develops written treatment programs based on evaluation of patient data.
• Evaluates and tests patient's strength, motor development, sensory perception, functional capacity, and respiratory and circulatory efficiency, and records findings to develop or revise treatment programs.
• Administers manual exercises to improve and maintain function.

Instructs, motivates, and assists patient to perform various physical activities, such as non-manual exercises, ambulatory functional activities, daily-living activities, and in use of assistant and supportive devices, such as crutches, canes, and prostheses.

Administers treatments involving application of physical agents, using equipment such as hydrotherapy tanks and whirlpool baths, moist packs, ultraviolet and infrared lamps, and ultrasound machines.

• Evaluates effects of treatments at various stages and adjusts treatments to achieve maximum benefit.
• Administers massage, applying knowledge of massage techniques and body physiology.
• Administers traction to relieve pain, using traction equipment.
• Records treatment, response, and progress in patient's chart or enters information into computer.
• Instructs patient and family in treatment procedures to be continued at home.
• Evaluates, fits, and adjusts prosthetic and orthotic devices, and recommends modification to Orthotist.
• Confers with physician and other practitioners to obtain additional patient information, suggest revisions in treatment program, and integrate physical therapy treatment with other aspects of patient's health care.
• Orients, instructs, and directs work activities of assistants, aides, and students.
• Administer complex treatment, such as certain types of manual exercises and functional training, and monitor administration of other treatments.
• Plan, direct, and coordinate physical therapy program.

Maintain the confidentiality of all resident care information including protected health information. Report known or suspected incidents of unauthorized disclosure of such information; and adhere to Resident’s rights.

Performs other work related duties as assigned or requested.

Consistently provides service excellence to all patients, family members, visitors, volunteers and co-workers in a manner that reflects JML’s commitment to CARES: compassion, accountability, respect, excellence and service.

• Must possess, as a minimum, a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited college or university.
• Must have training in rehabilitative and restorative therapy practices.
• Must possess a current, unencumbered license to practice as a Physical Therapist in this state.
• Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language.
• Must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age-related needs of the residents served.
• Must be a supportive team member, contribute to and be an example of team work and team concept.

Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action in a timely fashion.

Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel, and the general public.

Must be knowledgeable of physical therapy procedures.

Must possess leadership and supervisory ability and the willingness to work harmoniously with and supervise other personnel.

Must possess the ability to plan, organize, develop, implement, and interpret the programs, goals, objectives, policies, procedures, etc., of the physical therapy service.

Must maintain the care and use of supplies, equipment, etc., and maintain the appearance of therapy areas.

Must have patience, tact, a cheerful disposition and enthusiasm as well as be willing to handle residents on whatever maturity level in which they are currently functioning.

Must be willing to seek out new methods and principles and be willing to incorporate them into existing therapy services.

• Must be able to relate information concerning a resident’s condition.
• Must not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds and meet all other Physical and Sensory requirements of the job.