Physical Therapy Extender

Major Responsibilities:

Patient Care

• Applies supportive taping under direction of a physical therapist, occupational therapist, physical therapist/occupational therapist assistant.
• Performs list tests under supervision of therapist.
• Administers effective treatment modalities under direct supervision of a physical/occupational therapist, physical therapist/occupational therapist assistant following the therapist’s treatment plan or specific instructions.
• Meets competency standards for use of modalities and follows department procedures for treatment modalities.
• Uses equipment safely according to departmental training and/or manufacturer’s instructions.
• Coordinates and instructs treatment plan for work conditioning patients under supervision of a therapist.
• Develops home programs for department use or to support individual patient plans of care.
• Provides sports specific training under supervision of a physical therapist, occupational therapist, physical/occupational therapist assistant.
• Works with Sports Enhancement Program (SEP) clients under supervision of a therapist as appropriate.
• Assists therapists with progression for return to sports or limitations for return to sports for athletes and develops training programs to help athletes return to sports participation.

Communication

• Answers patient questions regarding the treatment being performed and appropriately refers all other questions to the treating therapist.
• Observes patients during treatment and communicates to the therapist about tolerance or intolerance to treatment.
• Communicates with the therapist subjective information the patient reports.
• Handles difficult situations in a professional and customer friendly manner while following proper procedures.
• Complies with HIPAA regulations during all communications.

Department Organization/Upkeep

• Periodic safety checks of equipment, maintenance of accurate and up to date records, and coordination of annual equipment checks and calibrations.
• Keeps the department well organized and keeps equipment clean and ready for use.
• Accurately orders, stocks per designated par levels, stores, and preps supplies for treatment.
• Daily management of clean and soiled linens per designated par levels.
• Updates and sets up Dartfish software program.

Licensure:

• Athletic Trainer.

Education/Experience Required:

• BA or BS with a licensed athletic trainer certification (ATC) or a BA or BS in Exercise Physiology.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Basic computer skills, Word processing, Ability to apply supportive tape or braces.
• BLS CPR Certification.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Frequent standing, walking, and demonstration of exercises. Ability to throw/catch balls and assist in sports specific agility training.
• Ability to lift or transfer patients 2-3 times/day, use Hoyer lift equipment, and work at a busy and hectic pace -ability to multi-task.
• Exposure to fumes from chemicals used throughout the department.

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It may require performing other related duties.