Speech Language Pathologist

Description

POSITION PURPOSE

Responsible for administration and direct application of Speech/Language Pathology treatment modalities as prescribed by a referring physician. Evaluates, plans, directs and treats all patients referred to speech/language. Pathology treatments to restore function and prevent disability following disease or injury. Assists patients to obtain maximum performance and function in society while learning to live a routine “normal” life within the constraints of their disability. Participates in performance improvement activities within the department and participates in CQI activities. Assures personal competency. Provides information related to departmental budget considerations in relationship to Speech Pathology needs for optimum patient care and service. Assists in scheduling of patient visits for speech pathology evaluation and treatment. Performs some administrative duties at the delegation of the Director of Rehabilitation Services. Participates in infection control, safety and educational programs, both in the department and on an organizational basis.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES

1. Upon physician referral, performs patient evaluations to determine problems and goals.

2. Prepares reports related to Speech/Language Pathology activities, including performance improvement activities.

3. Documents appropriately in the medical record for all Speech/Language Pathology treatments, assessments and evaluations performed for the inpatient and outpatient population.

4. Formulates a teaching plan based upon identified learning needs and evaluates effectiveness of learning, family is included in teaching as appropriate.

5. Develops and implements effective treatment programs in consultation with physicians. Treats patients in accordance with Speech/Language Pathology standards of care and practice.

6. Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic and religious/spiritual needs of patients and family.

7. Confers with the individuals most closely associated with the patient and keeps them informed on patient needs, treatment modifications and progress.

8. Performs examinations such as swallowing examinations accurately and communicates results timely to all appropriate members of the healthcare team.

9. Interacts professionally with patient/family and involves patient/family in the formation of the plan of care.

10. Intercedes for the patient when dietary revisions are necessary to prevent aspiration.

11. Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients’ needs are met and facility policy is followed.

12. Maintains records pertinent to personnel and operation of the department.

13. Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.

14. Maintains a good working relationship both within the department and with other departments.

15. Treats patients of all ages (i.e., pediatric to geriatric), race, gender and disability without bias.

16. Consults other departments as appropriate to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities.

17. Communicates appropriately and clearly to physicians, staff and administrative team.

18. Participates in departmental education on performance improvement. Attends departmental orientation and in-service training for department staff member, participates in guidance and educational programs.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Master’s degree from a college or school of Speech Language Pathology

REGULATORY: Licensed by State of Kentucky as a Speech Language Pathologist

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Experience working with geriatric population preferred.

Good interpersonal and public relations skills.

Solid analytical, creative, and problem-solving abilities.

Able to assist and coordinate with others. Able to use computer in basic word processing, email correspondence, and excel applications

Requirements

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS OF THIS POSITION

REPETITIVE MOTIONS: Movements frequently and regularly required using the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.

TALKING: Especially where one must frequently convey detailed or important instructions or ideas accurately, loudly, or quickly.

AVERAGE VISUAL ABILITIES: Average, ordinary, visual acuity necessary to prepare or inspect documents or products or operate machinery.

AVERAGE HEARING: Able to hear average or normal conversations and receive ordinary information.

PHYSICAL STRENGTH: Frequently stand, use hands, reach with hands, and climb and balance. Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

MENTAL ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS OF THIS POSITION

REASONING ABILITY: Ability to deal with a variety of variables under only limited standardization.

Able to interpret various instructions.

MATHEMATICS ABILITY: Ability to perform basic math skills, use decimals to compute ratios and percents.

LANGUAGE ABILITY: Ability to prepare reports, letters, and other forms of communication using proper punctuation, spelling, and grammar.

Ability to communicate distinctly with appropriate pauses and emphasis, correct pronunciation (or sign equivalent), and variation in word order using present, perfect, and future tenses.