Job Title: Pediatric Physical Therapist

Location: Elmira, NY (New York State Finger Lakes Region)

• Join the exceptional PT team and make a valuable impact on Pediatric Physical Therapy.

SUMMARY:

• Coordinates and executes tailored therapy programs for each patient, adhering to Physical Therapy principles. Partners with interdisciplinary treatment team. Reports to the Clinical Coordinator of Rehab Services.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Assess Physical Therapy requisitions.

a. Conduct comprehensive patient interviews and evaluate physical condition and requirements.

2. Design personalized exercise and treatment regimens for assigned patients.

a. Define appropriate equipment usage, application, and body position, making adjustments as needed for administering treatments such as exercise, gait training, soft tissue mobility, whirlpool, hot packs, ultrasound, paraffin, ice packs, electrical stimulation, and traction.

b. Educate patients on program segments, including proper utilization of wheelchairs, crutches, canes, braces, and prosthetic appliances and devices.

c. Recommend modifications or updates to patients’ programs based on progress assessment.

d. Consult with physicians to discuss alternative options.

3. Prepare necessary documentation (evaluation results, treatment plans, progress reports, and discharge summaries) in accordance with professional and departmental requirements.

4. Collaborate with nursing and interdisciplinary team members to ensure efficient coordination of patient care by communicating observations, facts, and comments.

5. Provide guidance and direction to support staff members involved in patient care.

6. Uphold department policies, procedures, objectives, quality initiative program, safety protocols, and infection control.

a. Comply with hospital-wide safety responsibilities:

1. Maintain a safe environment for patients, visitors, and employees.

2. Possess comprehensive knowledge of all hospital safety policies and procedures (including fire safety and disaster protocol).

3. Adhere to safety practices while operating equipment.

4. Use safety devices on equipment and ensure their proper functioning.

5. Wear necessary safety clothing, glasses, gloves, and shoes, while also respecting “Universal Precautions” as necessary.

6. Report any unsafe acts or conditions to supervisor.

7. Attend safety programs as scheduled.

b. Familiarize oneself with and adhere to the department’s “Policy and Procedure” manual.

c. Assist the Clinical Coordinator with quality initiative indicators when required.

7. Contribute to the care and maintenance of department equipment and supplies.

8. Attend meetings and participate in committees as directed.

9. Be available to transport patients to and from the PT Department as needed.

10. Assume the duties and responsibilities of the Senior Therapists during their absence.

11. Foster professional growth and development by participating in educational programs, keeping up with current literature, attending in-service meetings and workshops, etc.

12. Attend all annual mandatory educational programs required for the position.

13. Provide age-appropriate care to neonate, infant, children, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients.

14. Understand and demonstrate the importance of meeting customer/patient needs through friendly and caring interactions, attentiveness to their emotional and physical well-being, and proactive communication to ensure a secure and pleasant experience.

• EDUCATION:
• Must possess a valid license, or be eligible to obtain one, to practice physical therapy in NYS at the time of hire.
• EXPERIENCE:
• Prior experience in a hospital setting is preferred.
• CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) REQUIREMENTS:
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required within 90 days of hire date.
• PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• Considerable physical effort; occasional repetitive tasks. May involve lifting, pushing, and pulling. Must be capable of independently lifting at least thirty (30) pounds and one-hundred fifty (150) pounds with assistance.
• EXPOSURE CATEGORY:
• Category II. No exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues. However, may be required to perform unplanned Category I tasks.
• INFECTION CONTROL:
• Follows universal precautions during patient care.

• ABOUT THE AREA:
• Elmira is a small town located in western New York near the Pennsylvania border and south of the stunning Finger Lakes region. The most prominent industrial landmark is the Corning Glass Works, which is situated 14 miles west of Corning. The area offers many hidden treasures, including underground caves to explore, hot air balloon rides with breathtaking views of mountainous foliage, museums, amusement parks, state parks, dining and shopping experiences, concerts, and more. The most pleasant weather can be enjoyed in the months of August, July, and June. The Elmira School District has an average of 15.7 students per teacher in public schools. Nearby educational institutions include Elmira College, Elmira Business Institute, Corning Community College, Mansfield University in Pennsylvania, Ithaca College, and Cornell University.
• Located 2 hours away from Rochester or Syracuse,
• Only a 30-minute drive to Watkins Glen at the south end of Seneca Lake.