This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Provides direct patient care and/or rehabilitative and developmental therapy to individuals with physical disabilities and/or functional limitations in clinic, inpatient, outpatient, and outreach programs. Plans therapy programs, directs and assists patients in exercises and use of wheelchairs and other devices, and evaluates patient progress. Educates patients and families in appropriate physical therapy methods. Leads the work of and serves as a resource for other therapists.
Duties and Responsibilities
Tests and evaluates patients for therapy and support needs; assesses availability of in-clinic or on-site facilities, equipment, and/or services.
May plan therapy program for neuromusculoskeletal patients, as prescribed by physician, including posture, gait, range of motion, muscle testing, sensory testing, specific extremity and spinal segmental motion, biomechanical analysis of functional activities, orthotic analysis (if trained), ergonomic analysis, and other relevant assessments.
Plans, organizes, and conducts therapy programs designed to help patients regain physical or mental functioning or to adjust to their disabilities.
Administers appropriate physical agents given physicians' protocols, patients' medical histories, and therapist's knowledge of indications and contra-indications, including electrotherapy, sound energy, heat/cold therapy, hydrotherapy, and JOBST compression.
Directs and aids patient in active and passive exercises, muscle reeducation, and gait and functional training, utilizing pulleys and weights, steps, and inclined surfaces.
Treats, educates, and counsels patients and families as appropriate regarding specific physical, mental, and/or developmental disabilities.
Performs manual therapy techniques, including soft tissue mobilization, extremity and joint mobilization, medical exercise therapy, myofascial release, and craniosacral therapy.
Performs therapeutic exercise, with and without equipment.
May fabricate and fit splints, braces, and other adaptive devices and train patients on use, as appropriate to the specific nature of the clinical therapy program.
Performs administrative duties including: documentation of patient visits, daily, monthly and yearly statistics; short- and long-term goals of department; equipment maintenance, repair and new purchases; coordination with pharmacy for resale purchases.
Adapts conventional physical therapy techniques to meet the needs of patients unable to comprehend verbal commands or voluntarily carry out a regime of therapeutic exercises; educates parents and family members.
Evaluates, records, and reports on patients' progress for review by other members of the rehabilitative team.
Shares new information with staff on treatment techniques through in-service teaching and timely verbal communication.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
Bachelor's degree; at least 6 months of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Certification/Licensure
State of New Mexico License within area of clinical/therapeutic expertise; or licensure pending, as documented by temporary license.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and/or kinesiology.
Ability to observe, assess, and record symptoms, reactions, and progress.
Knowledge of clinical operations and procedures.
Ability to effectively communicate medical information, test results, diagnoses and/or proposed treatment in a manner easily understood by the client.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to monitor and/or maintain quality control standards.
Ability to interpret, adapt, and apply guidelines and procedures.
Ability to plan, develop and implement physical therapy programs.
Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of related therapy facilities and equipment.
Ability to perform diagnostic tests and evaluations for physical therapy patients.
Ability to safely lift, and physically manipulate patients.
Skill in performing a range of manual physical therapy techniques for patients.
Ability to gather and analyze statistical data and generate reports.
Knowledge of the administration, indications and contra-indications of various physical agents and physical therapy techniques.
Ability to instruct physical therapy patients in the use of facilities and equipment.
Conditions of Employment
May be required to submit to annual TB and rubella screening.
UNM will provide Hepatitis vaccination, candidate may decline vaccination through declination form or may provide record of vaccination from previous employer.
Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
May be subject to credentialing process; must maintain credentialed status, if applicable.
Must maintain certification status.
Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Considerable physical activity. Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds. Physical work is a primary part (more than 70%) of job.
Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
