Exercise Physiologist - St. Joseph Warren Hospital

Exercise Physiologist

Primary Function/General Purpose of Position

In collaboration with the cardiopulmonary team, the Exercise Physiologist II is responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating the exercise component of the program and for reviewing patient history, presenting lectures, and performing exercise prescriptions. Monitors the patient's response to therapy and makes recommendations to change or modify based on the assessment. Serves as preceptor to new team members.

Essential Job Functions   

• Review medical history, nursing intake and exercise history/ETT prior to goal setting session. Becomes familiar with patient profiles, with special attention to musculoskeletal function and cardiovascular histories. Calculate target heart range and risk stratification class, when appropriate, prior to six-minute walk test

• Educate patient in self-monitoring target heart rate (THR) and rate of perceived   exertion (RPE)

• Write exercise prescription for clinic based on results. Document patient response to exercise, heart rate, ECG rhythm and any signs and symptoms a patient may be having.

• Perform six-minute walk test or sub max exercise tolerance test during initial evaluation and discharge and documents findings

• Provide patients with guidelines for exercise to be followed at home

• Document on patient Individualized Treatment Plan (ITP) every 30 days; reassessment of exercise goals, response to exercise, discharge planning, and ongoing education of the patient.

• Will be directly involved with and act as site supervisor for Clinic Student University Internship program.

• Develop and update the education curriculum with members of the interdisciplinary team that may include but not limited to RN’s, Cardiac/Pulmonary Medical Directors, Pharmacist and Department Manager for the educational series.

• Communicates with the program manager, medical director and/or cardiac nurse on a regular basis regarding any patient difficulties or adverse response to exercise

• Review patient progress on a regular basis, evaluating compliance with exercise prescription and patient response to exercise.

• Update exercise prescription as needed and document any change in response to exercise and/or in exercise prescription.

• Maintains and updates certification for American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) (if applicable per site).

• Maintains exercise equipment. Schedules periodic calibration and maintenance of equipment with bio-med or outside vendors.

• Maintains the emergency equipment: Documents readiness of equipment; Orders supplies for glucometer, and O2 tanks.

• Assist with cardiopulmonary education to community as requested; Participate in a minimum of one community screening/community event annually.

• Attend team meetings, update staff on patient progress toward exercise goals, difficulties, and readiness for discharge.

• May educate patient for ongoing cardiopulmonary wellness programs.

• May assist with administrative duties, that may include but is not limited to: Ordering office supplies, medical supplies, and linens.

This document is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as required by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.

Licensing/Certification

BLS Basic Life Support - American Heart Association(required)

Advanced Cardiac Life Support - American Heart Association or Red Cross (required)

Clinical Specialty from accredited organization such as:

ACSM Certification - American College of Sports Medicine or ASEP Certification - American Society of Exercise Physiologists (preferred)

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science/ Exercise Physiology (required)

Master's Degree in Exercise Science/ Exercise Physiology (preferred)

Work Experience

Minimum 2 years previous experience in adult fitness and/or cardiac rehabilitation programs (preferred)

Training

None

Patient Population

         Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his or her assigned unit.

         Demonstrates knowledge of the principles of growth and development of the life span and possesses the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his or her age, specific needs and to provide the care needed as described in departmental policies and procedures.​

         Neonates (0-4 weeks)

         Infant (1-12 months)

         Pediatrics (1-12 years)

         Adolescents (13-17 years)

         Adults (18-64 years)

         Geriatrics (65 years and older)

         Not applicable to this position

Skills

Critical Thinking

Effective Communication

Active Listening

Collaboration

patient care

physiologic data acquisition

patient management

internal and external customers

inventory equipment and supplies

attention to detail                                                                   
Working within an interdisciplinary team
Conflict resolution
Relationship building