Report To:                   Physiotherapists

Accountable:              Physiotherapy Manager

Hours of work:            19.5 hours per week

Role Summary

The Physiotherapy Assistant works as part of the department team under the supervision and guidance of the Senior Physiotherapist and the Physiotherapy Manager and

        Participates in the day to day service as a member of a rehabilitation team

        Contributes towards department organisation

        Provides a high standard of service in a specified clinical area that may involve working with inpatient and outpatients.

        Gives support to the physiotherapists in the provision of a safe and caring environment

        Provides cover at weekends working Sat and Sunday every second weekend

Qualifications

        No minimum level required

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1.0 Key Areas of Responsibility

1.1    At all times treating patients with dignity and respect, exercising discretion and maintaining their

        confidentiality.

1.2    To assist the physiotherapist with treatment interventions as requested and specified by the

               Physiotherapist.

1.3    To facilitate and undertake group activities under the direction of the physiotherapist.

1.4   To transport and accompany or direct patients to and from treatment

1.5   To assist the physiotherapist by completing one to one interventions under the direction and

        Supervision of the physiotherapist.

1.6   To prepare the patients and the environment for treatment as directed by the physiotherapist.

       1.7   To observe patients behaviour, response, and ability, recording this information where required

               and reporting it back to the physiotherapist.  

       1.8   Dealing with emergency situations or accidents by summoning professional help immediately. 

       1.9   To comply with departmental protocols regarding documentation and recording of statistical

  Data.

     1.10  To maintain supplies in treatment areas in accordance with departmental guidelines.

      1.11  To be familiar with the operation of relevant equipment which the physiotherapist will be

                required to use.

      1.12  Maintaining the ward/department environment to promote good infection control and health

        and safety at work.

      1.13  Taking due care of patient's property and valuables in accordance with hospital policy.

1.14   Working co-operatively with others as part of the multi-disciplinary team helping and assisting

         other clinical staff in the routine work associated with patient care.

1.15  Providing comfort, reassurance and support to patients in times of high anxiety or distress.

1.16   Obtaining, relaying, recording and storing information relating to care delivery whilst at all 

          times maintaining patient confidentiality.

1.17   Demonstrating an understanding of the importance of accurate documentation and    

          contributing towards recording daily reports of patients activity and progress, recognising that            

          the qualified physiotherapist has personal accountability for entries to patient records made by

                 others under their supervision.

      1.18   Listening to and being able to accept constructive feedback.

1.19   Participating in discussion about patient care and ward/departmental development, including

          handover and team meetings.

1.20  Undertaking a range of administrative and clerical tasks associated with patient care to

         facilitate the smooth running of the ward/department, including cover at physiotherapy

         reception during lunch hour and at other required times.

1.21  Maintaining and controlling stock, equipment and materials related to patient care in order to   

         facilitate the efficient and effective use of resources and ensure that patient areas are kept

         tidy.

1.22   To check, and maintain a clean and tidy environment in the Out-patient department including 

         cubicles, Equipment and office spaces.

1.22  Complying with the policies and procedures at Blackrock Clinic, e.g.

        Health and Safety

        Infection Control including disposal of waste, sharps and infected lined.

        Accident and Incident Reporting

        Complaints Procedure

        Hospital Fire Policy and evacuation

2.0 Communication Skills

2.1   Communicate appropriately with colleagues and other members of the health care teams.

2.2   Communicate in a manner that avoids antagonism, reduces conflict and prevents undue

              anxiety.

2.3   Recognise limitations and seek assistance where necessary.

2.4   Attend and contribute to appropriate meetings.

2.5   Report all incidents immediately, which may adversely affect a patient, colleague or the

              Blackrock Clinic.

2.7   Communicating clearly and appropriately with patients, their relatives / friends colleagues and all

        other members of the multidisciplinary team including responding to queries, answering the    

        phone, taking messages and passing on written and verbal information to patients.

3.0 General Expectations

3.1   Support the philosophy, objectives and goals of Blackrock Clinic.

3.2   Observe the appropriate lines of authority.

3.3   Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all patients and the activities of Blackrock Clinic.

3.4   Demonstrate flexibility by assisting in all areas of the hospital/clinic as required.

3.5   The Manager depending on the availability of cover will arrange annual leave;

              this usually means the holiday periods i.e. Easter, summer and Christmas.

3.6   Participates in developing and providing quality care within Blackrock Clinic.

3.7   Assists in orientation of new personnel.

3.8   Continue to develop personal knowledge and skills and seeks outside educational opportunities.

3.9   Present a professional appearance and conform to the dress, hygiene and infection control

              policies of the Clinic.

3.10 Is always punctual on duty.

Note: This job description is a reflection of the present service requirements and may be subject to review and amendments to meet the changing needs of the service.