Physical Therapist

Overview

Title:

Physical Therapist

Location:

Tuscaloosa, AL
Department: 10-PT
Status:
Full Time

Physical Therapist

The Staff Physical Therapist shall be responsible for providing quality physical therapy services and assisting in departmental operation.

• Evaluates patients referred to Physical Therapy to determine their current physical and functional status; and, assesses their potential benefit from physical therapy services.
• Plans and conducts a therapy program for patients referred to Physical Therapy. The program could include the use of exercise, massage, thermal agents, water, light, and/or electricity.
• Applies diagnostic and prognostic muscle, nerve, joint, and functional ability tests. Directs and aids patients in active and passive exercises, muscle re‑education, and gait and functional training. Utilizes exercise equipment such as pulleys and weights, steps, uneven, and inclined surfaces.
• Makes use of equipment such as muscle and nerve stimulators, ultrasound machines, and other therapeutic electrical machines.
• Gives whirlpool and contrast baths and applies moist heat and cold packs.
• Directs patients in the care and use of wheelchairs, braces, canes, crutches, walkers, and prosthetic and orthopedic devices.
• Gives instruction in posture control and therapeutic procedures to be continued by the patient.
• Adapts conventional physical therapy techniques to meet the needs of patients unable to comprehend verbal commands or voluntarily carry out a regime of therapeutic exercises.
• Observes, records, and reports patient's condition, reactions and responses.
• Directs and supervises activities of supportive personnel. Conducts and participates in training of Physical Therapy Technicians and Physical-Therapist Assistants in physical therapy techniques and objectives.
• Provides a safe, clean Physical Therapy Department.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

• Education: A minimum level of a B.S. degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited institution offering training in this specialty.
• Experience: When educational requirements are met, no previous experience is necessary, but would be desirable.
• Registered: Must be licensed by the Board of Physical Therapy in applicable State.

Authority:
Has the authority to perform physical therapy procedures as prescribed by a medical doctor.

Source of Workers:
From schools and from classified ads in professional publications.
Supervised by:
Clinical Director
Workers Supervised:
Physical Therapy Assistants and Aides/Technicians