Job Summary:

A Physical Therapy Nurse is responsible for evaluating and assisting patients with physical impairments to improve their mobility, reduce pain, and enhance their overall quality of life. They work closely with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement personalized rehabilitation plans.

Key Responsibilities:

• Patient Assessment: Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients to determine their physical condition, limitations, and rehabilitation needs.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with physical therapists, physicians, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals to develop individualized care plans.
• Treatment Planning: Develop and implement physical therapy treatment plans, including therapeutic exercises, mobility training, and pain management strategies.
• Monitoring Progress: Continuously assess and monitor patient progress and adjust treatment plans as needed to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Patient Education: Educate patients and their families on rehabilitation goals, exercises, and strategies for managing their conditions at home.
• Assistive Devices: Evaluate the need for and assist in the provision of assistive devices like crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs to improve patient mobility.
• Pain Management: Administer pain management techniques, including medication administration and non-pharmacological interventions.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, documenting assessments, interventions, and progress.
• Safety: Ensure patient safety during therapy sessions, including the proper use of equipment and adherence to infection control protocols.
• Advocacy: Act as an advocate for patients' rights and needs, ensuring they receive appropriate care and resources.
• Rehabilitation Techniques: Administer various rehabilitation techniques such as therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, heat/cold therapy, and electrical stimulation.
• Emotional Support: Provide emotional support to patients and their families, addressing their concerns and promoting a positive healing environment.

Qualifications:

• Registered Nurse (RN) licensure in the state of practice.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Nursing.
• Certification in Rehabilitation Nursing or relevant certification in physical therapy.
• Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills.
• Knowledge of physical therapy techniques and rehabilitation principles.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Empathy and compassion for patients facing physical challenges.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• CPR certification may be required.

Work Environment:

Physical Therapy Nurses can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare agencies. They may also work with patients of all ages, from children to older adults, depending on the healthcare setting.

Overall, a Physical Therapy Nurse plays a vital role in helping individuals regain their physical abilities and improve their overall well-being through a combination of nursing care and physical therapy techniques.