Physical Therapist

Job Description

This agency hereby approves that we shall hire and employ the services of a Physical Therapist, services indicated for functional limitations and deficits in safety, mobility, strength, and range of motion. Services provided by the physical therapist shall be performed within the scope of practice authorized by the license issued by the State for the practice of physical therapist.

Lines of Authority and reporting responsibilites: Report to the Director of Nursing/PT Supervisor, Administrator.

The following rules shall apply to the Physical Therapist to be employed by our agency:

1. He/She must be a graduate of an approved school for Physical Therapist.
2. He/She must be currently licensed and registered in this state.
3. He/She must have at least one year of experience in Physical Therapy.

Our Agency hereby sets forth the following Responsibilites for the Physical Therapist:

• He/she shall provide Physical Therapist services as prescribed by a Physician, physician assistant, or advanced registered nurse practitioner, acting within their scope of practice, which can be safely provided in the home. Conducts regular or OASIS assessments accurately, according to instructions in the OASIS Implementation Manual, and corresponding to documentation contained elsewhere in the assessment note. Participate in in-services program, and discharge planning.
• He/she shall assist the Physician, physician assistant, or advanced registered nurse practitioner, acting within their scope of practice in evaluating patients by applying diagnostic and prognostic muscle, nerve, joint and functional abilities test.
• He/she shall provide Physical Therapy services, and evaluation of equipment needs as applicable.
• He/she shall observe and record activities and findings in the clinical record and report to the Physician, physician assistant, or advanced registered nurse practitioner the patient’s reaction to treatment and any changes in the patient’s condition, or when there are deviations from the plan of care.
• He/she shall instruct the patient and patient’s family in the care and use of Physical Therapy devices. Makes supervisory visits to all assigned Home Health Aides and PTAs.
• He/she shall instruct other health team personnel including, when appropriate, Home Health Aides and family members in certain phases of Physical Therapy with which they may work with the patient.
• He/she shall instruct the patient’s family on the patient’s total physical therapy program.

Physical Requirements:

1. Able to speak, read, and write in English.

2. Able to read assignments, and follow directions.

3. Able to communicate and respond clearly on the telephone and respond to patient’s spoken needs.

4. The ability to physically transfer, lift, or assist patients whose average weight is 160 pounds with or without the aid of mechanical devices.

5. Able to spend 80% of the work standing and/or moving about.

6. Able to walk, climb stairs, stoop, twist, bend, and squat to perform essential job functions.

This Job Classification will have a Potential risk for Occupational Exposure to Blood and Other Potential Infections body fluids, protective equipment will be provided by our Agency to limit the exposure and will promote self-protection practices in the delivery of Home Health Care, to provide appropriate treatment to home health care workers in the event of exposure incident and to promote compliance with the universal precautions.

Mental Requirements:

1. Able to concentrate on detail with frequent interruptions.
2. Able to follow, complete and remember daily routines and requirements.
3. Able to comprehend and utilize professional education materials.
4. Able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position.

These responsibilities may be subject to change from time to time to reflect the prevailing state statutes. Ensure HIPAA guidelines and procedures are maintained.