Physical Therapist Intern - District-Wide

PAY GRADE:
Unpaid 

SUPERVISOR:
Assigned physical therapist clinical educator(s). 

SUMMARY:  
The physical therapist intern completes all tasks under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist employed by Cherry Creek School District.  Physical therapist interns are students in a doctor of physical therapy or a physical therapist assistant program. Physical therapist interns perform aspects of physical therapy care as delegated by their assigned clinical instructor. The physical therapist intern promotes collaborative relationships among the school community: parents, staff, administration, community agencies, private medical providers, and other community members. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES PERFORMED UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE CLINICAL INSTUCTOR: 

• Evaluates the student’s functional abilities through a variety of methods including histories, interviews, standardized assessments, skilled observation, and checklists. (Physical therapy students only)


• Synthesizes evaluation results into a comprehensive written report, which reflects strengths and barriers to student participation in the educational environment to help direct program development and guide evidence-based intervention. (Physical therapy students only)


• Participates in multidisciplinary meetings to review evaluation results, integrate findings with other disciplines, offer recommendations, and develop a comprehensive educational plan.


• Provides targeted, evidence-based therapeutic intervention to facilitate student participation within the school environment.


• Adapts and modifies the environment, including use of assistive technology, adaptive equipment, and training instructional staff, to meet individual needs and promote student independence.


• Educates student, staff, and family to facilitate skill development and practice as well as maintain health and safety.


• Monitors the effects of physical therapy intervention and the need to continue, modify, or discontinue intervention.


• Maintains clinical and administrative records in accordance with professional standards and state and district guidelines.


• Provides supervision of Physical Therapy Assistants in accordance with Colorado Physical Therapy Practice Act and district guidelines. (Physical therapy students only)


• Assists in managing inventory of therapeutic equipment and supplies.


• Seeks out evidence-based resources and practices clinical reasoning to make decisions.


• Uses Physical Therapy Code of Ethics and standards of practice to guide ethical decision-making.


• Participates in weekly planning sessions with their clinical instructor to promote their progression through the clinical curriculum. 


• Completes a project or presentation of specific interest to the physical therapy staff as directed by their clinical instructor.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Colorado Special Services Provider (SSP) Internship Authorization (required, only if interested in subbing during internship)


• Currently enrolled in a physical therapy or physical therapist assistant education program.


• Strong oral and written communication, organization, collaboration, and planning skills.


• Basic knowledge of typical office equipment and computer software systems.


• Criminal background check and fingerprinting required for hire.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, AND REGISTRATIONS:

• Colorado driver’s license

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Moderate physical effort.


• Lifting up to 25 pounds.


• Frequent standing and walking.


• Frequent bending and reaching.


• Frequent lifting, pulling, and pushing.


• Occasional climbing


• Close, distance, color, and peripheral vision.


• Visual concentration, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.


• Eye/hand coordination.


• Basic manual dexterity.


• Speaking and hearing.


• Moderate noise level.


• Exposure to outdoor weather conditions.


• Normal office environment.


• Normal school environment.