Physical Therapist, Lymphedema and Oncology

Primary Duties:

1. Performs individualized evaluation and ongoing assessment related to the patients condition, addressing special needs and behaviors.
2. Develops treatment goals, in conjunction with the interdisciplinary team, that are time specific and result in discharge of the patient to his home environment attaining the highest level of function possible.
3. Develops the treatment plan and revises as necessary from the goals set by the interdisciplinary team in coordination with the physician, the patient and the family.
4. Assumes responsibility for instruction and supervision of Therapy Aides in patient care activities as appropriate within hospital policies and procedures and medical regulations.
5. Accountable for following the guidelines for attendance, punctuality and overall dependability. Accountable for effective performance and follow-through of all assigned responsibilities and for completing responsibilities within designated (or agreed upon) timeframes. Completes responsibilities in a manner consistent with organizational policy, goals and values.
6. Patient instruction in an appropriately dosed exercise program to promote lymphatic circulation.
7. Patient education for the development of a home program for the long-term management of their lymphedema
8. Patient education regarding skin care practices for lymphedema and infection risk reduction
9. Application of compression bandaging
10. Manual lymphatic drainage
11. Measuring and fitting with appropriate compression garments
12. Evaluation, treatment and differential diagnosis of axillary web syndrome, postural and scapular dysfunction and upper quadrant soft tissue changes following breast cancer surgery/reconstruction and radiation therapy.
13. Provide lymphedema education as well as instruction in lymphedema and infection risk reduction practices.
14. Provide instruction in exercise guidelines and implement exercise programs for lymphedema prevention.