Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Care Specialist PD

Summary

Under general supervision, this position evaluates, provides physical assessment and performs all other duties pertaining to the individualized patients' plan of care for cardiac, pulmonary, and vascular patient populations. Through collaboration with healthcare teams, the incumbent optimizes recovery, secondary prevention, and improvement in quality of life for patients.

Responsibilities

• Provides initial comprehensive assessments at baseline and discharge to establish appropriate interventions and measure the effectiveness of treatment provided.
• Pairs with medical staff and other members of the healthcare team in collaboration with the patient/family to facilitate a multidisciplinary plan of care for the cardiac, pulmonary, and vascular patient population.
• In conjunction with the healthcare team, considers risk stratification and comorbidities of patient population within the caseload for optimal care delivery and targets psychosocial, nutritional, tobacco cessation, and exercise interventions based on evidence-based practice guidelines.
• Assesses psychosocial adjustment to illness, including depression, return to work, family adjustments, or any significant social dysfunctions that may affect a full rehabilitation. Makes referrals to psychologists or works with other agencies on patients' behalf.
• Collects data on all patients and incorporates findings into the patient’s individualized treatment and the AACVPR national registry.
• Evaluates pulse oximetry, hemodynamic, electrocardiographic, and symptomatic responses to therapy and assesses appropriateness of responses to the prescribed intensity. Refers to additional medical or nursing resources when needed.
• Provides stress management strategies such as relaxation, meditation, and yoga when appropriate. Provides individualized nutritional strategies for healthier eating. Makes referral to weight loss studies and/or nutrition counseling.
• Performs 30-day reassessments, evaluates progress towards established goals and identifies any additional target interventions or education.
• Evaluates medical director’s consent on all treatment plans & assessments. Collaborates with referring physicians to optimize patient outcomes when situation warrants. Facilitates the development and implementation of a comprehensive discharge plan and reviews patient discharge plan and outcomes with patient.
• Develops appropriate patient care reports to ensure safe patient handoff during staffing coverage and transition to self-pay programs.
• Acts as a change agent by identifying opportunities to improve adherence, compliance, throughput, and reduce readmissions through team collaboration, problem resolution, and follow-up.
• Participates in quality improvement projects or research opportunities within the department. Participates in hospital committees and/or committees associated with the AACVPR governing body.
• Participates in professional development to support license and certifications. Mentors student interns, volunteers, and new employees to reflect the departmental practices. Provides creative and innovative workshops or programs to enhance patient education and lifestyle modification strategies.
• Maintains quality assurance, safety, environmental, and infection control in accordance with established hospital and department policies, procedures, and objectives. Assists manager with the maintenance of equipment, supply inventory, and daily operational checks.
• Promotes patient satisfaction by facilitating patient participation in education opportunities, research studies, specialty workshops, utilization of ancillary specialists, and completion of individualized performance objectives.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in physical therapy or Exercise Physiology.
• Current CPR and ACLS certifications required. ACLS can be obtained within the first 3-6 months.
• ACSM and AACVPR certifications preferred.
• Five (5) years of clinical experience in a Rehabilitation environment is strongly preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills and collaborative communication necessary to interact successfully on a daily basis with a wide and diverse population of both health care providers, patients, and their families.
• Knowledge and skill necessary to provide care to patients throughout the life span, with consideration of aging processes, human development stages, and cultural patterns in each step of the care process.
• Basic proficiency in the use of Microsoft office software programs including email, Outlook calendar, and basic keyboard skills.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• General ambulatory environment with occasional stressful conditions associated with patient care volume.
• May be asked to make hospital visits to patient care areas for rehab consults prior to hospital discharge.
• Visual acuity and finger dexterity needed to review medical records, navigate through automated system screens, and type on a typical computer terminal keyboard.
• Must be able to demonstrate exercise therapy for optimal patient care delivery.

Independent Action

• Responds to individual patient-care situations demonstrating knowledge and skills acquired through education, certification, and work experience.
• Performs independently within department policies and procedures, and refers specific, complex problems to supervisor, manager, or medical director for clarification and guidance.

Supervisory Responsibility

• None