Physical Therapist

SUMMARY

Plans and administers medically prescribed physical therapy treatment for patients suffering from injuries, or muscle, nerve, joint and bone diseases, to restore function, relieve pain, and prevent disability by performing the following duties. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. 

• Reviews Physician's referral (prescription) and patient's condition and medical records to determine physical therapy treatment required.
• Tests and measures patient's strength, motor development, sensory perception, functional capacity, and respiratory and circulatory efficiency, and records findings to develop or revise treatment programs.
• Plans and prepares written treatment program based on evaluation of patient data.
• Administers manual exercises to improve and maintain function.
• Instructs, motivates, and assists patient to perform various physical activities and in use of assistive and supportive devices such as crutches, canes, and prostheses.
• Administers treatments involving application of physical agents and use of Aquatic therapy as appropriate.
• Evaluates effects of treatment at various stages and adjusts treatments to achieve maximum benefit.
• Administers myofascial mobilization and lymph mobilization if adequate training has been accomplished.
• Administers traction to relieve pain.
• Records treatment, response, and progress in patient's chart or enters information into computer.
• Instructs patient and family in treatment procedures to be continued at home.
• Evaluates, fits, and adjusts prosthetic and orthotic devices and recommends modification to Orthotist.
• Confers with Physician and other practitioners to obtain additional patient information, suggest revisions in treatment program, and integrate physical therapy treatment with other aspects of patient's health care.
• Orients, instructs, and directs work activities of assistants, aides, and students.
• Plans and conducts lectures and training programs on physical therapy and related topics for medical staff, students, and community groups.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Must be a graduate of an accredited Physical Therapy program and be currently licensed by the Montana State Board of PT Examiners to practice Physical Therapy as defined by the Montana APTA.  The PT should be in good physical and mental health, and is expected to maintain a high level of fitness to be able to portray the benefits of good health practices.
• The PT will attain and maintain adequate continuing education credits as required by the Montana APTA.  Applicant's CEU's will be expected to be tied to perceived needs of the service community.
• The general nature of this practice requires a familiarity with a wide variety of problems and treatments.  The PT should strive to be as competent and knowledgeable as possible.
• The normal hours of work for this position are 36 to 40 per week, Monday - Friday.  Any change in this schedule will be discussed with the PT Manager on a case by case basis.
• This PT staff reports to the PT Manager.