Physical Therapist - FT - Day Shift

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The work involves administering physical therapy treatments under medical direction and technical supervision. Work is performed under the general supervision of a more senior professional employee. The incumbent administers all forms of physical therapy which will tend to re-educate and strengthen paralyzed muscles of the patients, relieve pain and spasms and possible prevention of physical deformities. Supervision is exercised over lower ranking non-professional employees.

Typical Work Activities

• Administers massage, muscle training and coordination, corrective exercise and applies varied forms of heat therapy;
• Teaches family and patients through demonstration how to apply heat;
• Tests and grades patients’ muscle power and functional activities;
• Instructs patients how to exercise, walk, stand, balance and use supportive devices;
• Observes patients’ reactions to treatment and prepares written reports of treatment, progress and results;
• Explains orthopedic recommendations of physician to the patient;
• Instructs patients in the use of mechanical devices, such as shoulder wheels, pulleys, parallel bars, walking ramps and steps.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Thorough knowledge of skeletal anatomy and principals involved in the application of active and passive motion related to physical conditions resulting from disease, injury or birth defects;
• Thorough knowledge of fundamentals of therapeutic massage and its relationship to medical rehabilitation;
• Good knowledge of the use of the equipment and the methods used in electrotherapy, thermotherapy and hydrotherapy;
• Ability to demonstrate all types of physical therapy treatment and to teach families and patients home-type treatment;
• Ability to prepare written reports;
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions;
• Reliability;
• Tact;
• Initiative;
• Physically capable of performing the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Minimum Qualifications

• Possession of a Limited Permit to practice Physical Therapy in New York State at the time of appointment;
• Possession of a license and current registration to practice Physical Therapy within six months and maintenance of license throughout duration of appointment.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Possession of Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification within sixty (60) days of appointment and maintenance throughout duration of employment.