Physical Therapist-Acute Care
Dallas, TX, US
PRIMARY PURPOSE:Evaluates, plans and implements specific treatment programs for individual patients according to the principles of physical therapy to facilitate the patients recovery and return to independence.
MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS:
Education:
Must have a degree in Physical Therapy from a school accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association.Experience:
None.Certification/Registration/Licensure:
Must have current licensure with the Board of Physical Therapy Examiners for Texas, or have temporary licensure in Texas, or an active compact license permitting a Physical Therapist to practice in Texas.Must have a current Healthcare Provider CPR course completion card prior to hire and/or placement in job from one of the following:
- American Heart Association
- American Red Cross Rescuer
- Military Training Network.
Skills or Special Abilities:
- Must be able to demonstrate knowledge of physical therapy procedures and techniques.
- Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and written with patients, families, and hospital staff.
- Must be able to demonstrate problem-solving ability.
- Must be able to demonstrate patient centered/patient valued behaviors.
Responsibilities:
1. Evaluates patients thoroughly and defines deficits according to rehab principles. Plans, implements, and adapts treatments using various therapy techniques and devices as appropriate to restore, reinforce, and enhance patients performance. Provides education to patients and family members to facilitate participation and improvement.
2. Provides timely documentation on patients status and progress according to established guidelines. Maintains all necessary records and reports ensuring timely entry and accuracy of data.
3. Maintains a positive working relationship with other staff to ensure coordination and provision of quality patient care. Actively participates in multidisciplinary rounds to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for individual patients, based on patient needs and capabilities.
4. Provides effective inservice training to staff, students, and/or the general public on therapy techniques and objectives. Provides supervision and instruction to students and aides.
5. Takes responsibility for own professional growth and development by attending seminars and workshops, reading professional journals, and maintaining current licensure as a therapist and integrates this knowledge into the clinical setting. Maintains knowledge of applicable rules, regulations, policies, laws, and guidelines that impact the therapy area. Develops effective internal controls that promote adherence to applicable state/federal laws, and the program requirements of accreditation agencies and federal, state, and private health plans. Seeks advice and guidance as necessary to ensure proper understanding.
6. Identifies ways to improve work processes and improve customer satisfaction. Makes recommendations to supervisor, implements and monitors results as appropriate in support of the overall goals and mission of PHHS.
Parkland Health and Hospital System prohibits discrimination based on age (40 or over), race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, disability, national origin, marital status, political belief, or veteran status. As part of our commitment to our patients and employees’ wellness, Parkland Health is a tobacco and smoke-free campus.
Nearest Major Market:DallasNearest Secondary Market:Fort WorthJob Segment:Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation, Therapy, Healthcare Administration, Patient Care, Healthcare
Freqently Asked Questions
Acute care physical therapists in Dallas focus on immediate patient recovery within hospital settings, managing complex conditions post-surgery or trauma. Unlike outpatient roles, they work closely with multidisciplinary teams to adapt treatments rapidly, ensuring patients regain independence quickly in high-intensity environments.
Strong clinical reasoning, proficiency in various therapy techniques, and effective communication with patients and medical teams are key. Acute care therapists must also demonstrate adaptability to fast-changing patient conditions while adhering to Texas licensure and healthcare protocols.
Physical Therapists often face fluctuating patient statuses requiring rapid treatment plan adjustments. Balancing documentation accuracy and timely care in a bustling hospital environment demands strong organizational skills, all while fostering positive relationships with multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes.
Dallas shows growing demand for acute care physical therapists due to its expanding healthcare sector. However, competition remains moderate, with preference for candidates holding Texas licensure and relevant certifications. Networking within local hospital systems like Parkland Careers can enhance job prospects.
Texas mandates current licensure from its Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, including temporary or compact licenses. Additionally, valid CPR certification from recognized bodies like the American Heart Association is crucial for acute care positions, reflecting state and hospital safety standards.
Parkland Careers supports continuous learning through workshops and seminars, encouraging therapists to stay updated with latest clinical practices. They foster an environment where therapists can advance by leading inservice trainings and participating in multidisciplinary rounds that enhance clinical decision-making.
Parkland emphasizes treatments tailored to individual patient needs, involving education for patients and families. Physical Therapists collaborate closely with hospital staff to ensure care plans promote autonomy and quality of life, aligning with the system’s commitment to holistic, patient-valued rehabilitation.
In Dallas, acute care physical therapists typically earn between $75,000 and $95,000 annually, depending on experience and certifications. The city's competitive healthcare sector and cost of living influence this range, making it a lucrative option for licensed therapists.
Parkland Careers offers a diverse patient population in a high-volume setting, emphasizing multidisciplinary collaboration and ongoing education. The hospital’s tobacco-free campus policy and commitment to non-discrimination create an inclusive work culture distinct from some other Dallas healthcare employers.
Dallas’s busy urban hospitals require therapists to manage high patient turnover and coordinate with extensive medical teams. The city’s healthcare demands necessitate flexibility in scheduling and culturally competent care, reflecting the diverse population Parkland serves.
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