Physical Therapist - United States Air Force Academy

SUMMARY

In accordance with the scope of clinical privileges granted by the Military Treatment Facility (MTF), perform a full range of physical therapy treatment on patients suffering from injuries, or muscle, nerve, joint, and bone diseases, to restore function, relieve pain, and prevent disability.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide appropriate therapeutic procedures and provide a full range of therapy services in support of patient referrals. 
• All patient contact and care shall be safe, timely, result in achievement of realistic and documented treatment goals, and comply with or satisfy the intent of the referring medical staff. 
• Test and measure the patient's strength, motor development, sensory perception, functional capacity, and/or respiratory and circulatory efficiency.  Record findings to develop or revise treatment programs.
• Plan and prepare written treatment programs based on an evaluation of the patient.
• Administer manual exercises to improve and maintain function.
• Administer treatments involving application of physical agents, using equipment such as a pulsed lavage unit and/or whirlpool bath, moist packs, ultraviolet and infrared lamps, and ultrasound machines.  Evaluate effects of treatment at various stages and adjust treatments to achieve maximum benefit. 
• Record treatment, response, and progress in patient's chart and/or automated systems.
• Coordinate treatment with physician and other staff members to obtain additional patient information, suggest revisions in treatment program and integrate physical therapy treatment with other aspects of the patient's health care.  Contact referring physicians regarding patient care concerns, as required.
• Provide documented treatment and discharge recommendations to members of the staff in routine, emergency, and special cases as needed.
• Provide input and attend rehabilitation team meetings, seminars, and quality assurance meetings.
• Participate in peer review activities.
• Provide clinical supervision to assistants, technicians, aides, and students.
• Instruct, motivate, and assist patients in performing various physical activities, such as non-manual exercises, ambulatory functional activities, daily living activities, and in use of assistive and supportive devices, such as crutches, canes, and prostheses.
• Administer soft tissue mobilization, applying knowledge of mobilization techniques and body physiology. 
• Administer traction to relieve pain, using traction equipment. 
• Instruct patient and family in treatment procedures to be continued at home. 
• Evaluate, fit, and adjust prosthetic and orthotic devices and recommend modification as required.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None.