Physiotherapy Assistant

Physiotherapy Department at University Hospitals Plymouth NHT Trust is looking for a flexible, enthusiastic and motivated individual to join the inpatient teams. The post holder will work alongside Physiotherapists and the multidisciplinary team within the inpatient service.

**Preference will be given to internal Trust staff, as well as ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon who are able to display recent relevant experience as dictated by the Person Specification.**

Working under the supervision of Physiotherapy staff, to undertake a variety of tasks (clinical and non-clinical), to support the delivery of physiotherapy to patients.

To work under the direct and indirect supervision and direction of physiotherapy staff in the performance of specific tasks for an individual or group of patients, as part of their treatment and rehabilitation programmes. Supervision takes the form of a physiotherapist supervising the post holder (usually daily but at least weekly) by direct observation of practise, regular formal and informal training. Access to advice and support from senior physiotherapists is always available, regular checks will be made to ensure workload is managed, clinical work and case notes are routinely evaluated.

The Physiotherapy Department can offer you a friendly and social atmosphere with a forward thinking and progressive attitude to the changing face of the NHS. If you join our department you will benefit from a well-established appraisal scheme, in-service training, encouragement with CPD and excellent senior and peer support. Clinical specialists enhance the clinical lead within the department, encouraging evidence based practice and research / audit.

PRIMARY DUTIES & AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

To work under the direct and indirect supervision and direction of the qualified physiotherapy staff in the performance of specific tasks for an individual or group of patients, as part of their treatment and rehabilitation programmes. Such tasks may include;
Assisting the patients with functional activities of daily living, including walking, dressing/undressing and toileting

Teaching and supervising simple exercise programmes

Teaching the use of walking aids

To maintain confidentiality at all times in relation to patients and their treatment.

To prepare the treatment area and tidying up after use, including the disposal of soiled linen and the cleaning of equipment.

To assistant qualified staff in the treatment of heavily dependent patients, this includes the use of hoists, patient handling equipment, etc.

To update patient records in a concise, accurate and timely manner in line with departmental standards.

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.

To undertake any clerical / housekeeping duties as necessary. This may include maintaining stock levels, registration of patients, reception duties, filing, dealing with telephone calls, ordering of equipment, cleaning of equipment.

Communicate with the physiotherapists and other members of the multi-professional team, regarding changes in the patient's condition or any other useful information needed

To communicate effectively with patients and carers. Communication skills of persuasion, motivation, and explanation will be needed. Barriers to communication may include loss of hearing, altered perception, pain, fear.

**A PHYSIOTHERAPY HELPER MUST NOT**:
Initiate or modify treatment regime’s for patients.

Give advice on professional aspects of patient care. If asked all queries must be addressed to the qualified physiotherapist concerned.

Organisational

To attend organised training sessions, including annual fire lectures, cardiac resuscitation lectures and any in-service training arranged by the Physiotherapy staff.

To abide by the CSP Physiotherapy Assistants Code of Conduct.

To comply with Trust and departmental policies and procedures.

To be aware of the Health and Safety aspects of your work and abide by policies including the prompt recording and documentation of incidents and accidents.

Participate in the staff appraisal scheme as an appraisee and be responsible for complying with your agreed personal development programmes to meet set knowledge and competencies.

To participate in the appraisal system and Personal Development Programme.

Any other duties which may be considered appropriate by the qualified staff or the physiotherapy manager.

To undertake as directed the collection of data for use in service audit.

Be responsible for the safe and competent use of gym, and hydrotherapy equipment by patients, through teaching, training and supervision of practice.