Pulmonary Rehab Assistant Practitioner

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES To have an understanding of the disease process of COPD and other respiratory conditions and how it affects its sufferers. To assist qualified Physiotherapists in the delivery of the pulmonary rehab service in a variety of settings (online and face to face). To run exercise classes for patients with breathing problems independently, with the support of the Physiotherapist when required. To assess patients with breathing problems independently and determine their suitability/safety for exercise with the support of the Physiotherapist as required.

To assist in the running of Pulmonary Rehab classes in community settings such as leisure centres without direct supervision from a qualified Physiotherapist. To work independently with patients in leisure centre gyms and fitness studios whose case management is predictable. To work within established guidelines. To understand and be able to explain to patients and family members how Pulmonary Rehabilitation will help them cope with their chronic illness.

To assess patients responses to interventions and decide on appropriate action, adapting treatments if necessary. To work independently in the community seeking support if required from qualified staff undertaking programmes and tasks as previously agreed and discussed by qualified staff. To carry out exercise programmes with patients without direct supervision. To plan, organise and prioritise their workload independently.

To report back to qualified staff on patients progress and report when physiotherapy reassessment is required. To demonstrate an understanding of problem solving and contribute to the solutions with colleagues. To make decisions on the timing of progression of the treatment programmes and when to discharge the patients in liaison with the physiotherapist if deemed to be required. To communicate with the physiotherapists, and other members of the multi-professional team, regarding changes in the patient's condition or any other useful information.

To keep accurate and complete records consistent with legislation, policies and procedures. To provide advice and support and demonstrate activities to assistants and less experienced staff To be aware at all times of the needs of patients during illness or disability and to promote and encourage independence and restoration of function. Whilst it is not a legal requirement, Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust encourages and supports all its staff to be vaccinated as this remains the best line of defence against COVID-19. Word versions of documents are available if needed to allow for any adaptations to be made i.e.

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