PHYSICAL THERAPIST

 
PHYSICAL THERAPIST  Recruitment Number: 11-1111
This recruitment is being conducted to establish an eligibility list to fill countywide vacancies that occur during the active status of this list (approximately 3 -12 months).

It is the responsibility of each applicant to review the full position job description and requirements.

Training and Experience: Two (2) years of responsible work experience as a professional physical therapist, which included pediatric work experience.
Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License. Possession of valid registration as a Physical Therapist issued by the State of California. Must be eligible for State Skilled Professional Medical Personnel (SPMP) classification as defined by 42 CFR PART 432.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST DEFINITION Under general direction, to plan, develop, and perform physical therapy for physically disabled children up to age 21; and to do related work as required. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is a specialized classification for the development and performance of physical therapy for children covered by California Children Services Program. This is a discrete classification. REPORTS TO Public Health Nurse III; Public Health Nursing Director; Public Health Officer; Health Services Director; and other supervisory/management staff, as assigned. CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED This is not a supervisory classification. EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.) Plans and carries out a full range of physical therapy involving specialized skills for neuro-muscularly, orthopedically, and physically disabled children; interviews patients and parents; evaluates patient's physical condition; reviews clinical records, medical prescriptions, and/or physician referral to develop treatment plans; observes patient reactions and notes changes; adopts and applies treatment procedures for severely disabled children; instructs parents in the proper use of wheelchairs, crutches, canes, braces, and prosthetic devices and appliances; modifies treatment plans in response to significant changes in patient's condition; devises or adapts equipment as required; maintains treatment records; serves as a liaison with Local Educational Agency and the Children Services Program; consults with others involved with patient treatment to maintain consistency; attends clinics, conferences, and meetings; may coordinate and employ several treatment approaches to accomplish treatment objectives; may perform special evaluations and tests; instructs others in patient positioning for therapy treatment; may work at different sites in the County; consults with vendors and State regarding medical appointments and equipment. TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Sit for periods of time; frequently stand and walk; special manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination for application of physical therapy; use proper positioning and movement techniques for disabled persons; lift and move object weighing up to 50 pounds; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment including computers, telephones, calculators, copiers, and FAX, use of specialized equipment such as standing devices, training aides, lifts, blood pressure cuff, power wheelchairs. TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS Work is usually performed in a clinic environment; continuous contact with other staff and the public. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: Principles and practices of physical therapy, especially for disabled children. Kinesiology and modalities. Neuro-muscular function and dysfunction. Physiology and skeletal anatomy. Construction and use of orthopedic appliances and equipment. Psychological problems of persons with disabilities. Ability to: Plan therapy treatments and make modifications as a person progresses. Evaluate the condition and progress of patients with regard to physical therapy needs. Develop therapeutic techniques and devices. Evaluate the effectiveness of physical therapy techniques. Coordinate different treatment approaches to accomplish objectives. Instruct others in body positioning for therapy treatments. Coordinate treatment plans with other staff. Prepare and maintain accurate medical records. Deal tactfully and courteously with patients and their families. Regularly work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines. Constantly demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers/clients. Training and Experience: Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be: Two (2) years of responsible work experience as a professional physical therapist, which included pediatric work experience. Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License. Possession of valid registration as a Physical Therapist issued by the State of California. Must be eligible for State Skilled Professional Medical Personnel (SPMP) classification as defined by 42 CFR PART 432. The contents of this class specification shall not be construed to constitute any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee, nor shall it constitute a contract of employment. The County of Lake assumes no responsibility beyond the general accuracy of the document, nor does it assume responsibility for any errors or omissions in the information contained herein. The contents of this specification may be modified or revoked without notice. Terms and conditions of employment are determined through a "meet and confer" process and are subject to the Memorandum of Understanding currently in effect.