Exercise Physiologist

Department Overview

The exercise physiologist works collaboratively with physicians, mid-level providers, and allied health staff to provide direct and indirect patient care to patients participating in all phases of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. Assists in planning, coordinating, and implementing a rehabilitation and education program which limits the adverse physiological and psychological effects of cardiac and pulmonary illness. At times, he exercise physiologist also functions as a physical therapy aide, assisting therapists with and providing basic care as a member of the patient care team. The exercise physiologist assists in maintaining the practice environment in a clean, orderly condition including cleaning and preparation of treatment areas, stocking of linen, supplies and other duties.

Function/Duties of Position

Provides direct and indirect care to patients in all phases of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. 

• Demonstrates proficiency in clinical skills/knowledge specific to specialty area and follows established protocols
• Maintains knowledge base essential to role
• Protects patient privacy and maintains confidentiality
• Coordinates with team to develop, implement, evaluate and revise patient treatment plan
• Leads exercise sessions, including warm up and cool down
• Performs assessments and reassessments during exercise sessions. Communicates concerns regarding symptoms, vital signs, or clinical observations to the coordinator and/or physician.
• Responds to urgent or emergent situations
• Provides encouragement and utilizes motivational techniques to patients adhering to a healthy lifestyle
• Formulates teaching plan, based on identified learning needs, that includes prevention, disease process, medication compliance, smoking cessation, dietary practices, physical activity, cardiovascular risk factors, and other identified needs
• Prepares and presents both individual and group education based on needs of patients and their families 
• Evaluates learning effectiveness l. Identifies and addresses psychosocial needs of the patient and family 
• Reinforces concept of healthy lifestyle by words and actions.
• Documents according to established policies and procedures 
• Performs patient care in a timely manner
• Participates in community education and activities 
• Ensures emergency equipment is working properly and maintained
• Assists in ordering supplies and ensure department is stocked s. Coordinates maintenance of equipment and building
• Performs routine cleaning and reports mechanical failure of equipment as needed
• Productively utilizes unassigned time 

Provides leadership and participates in the assessment and development of department and hospital related projects

• Maintains a leadership style that promotes service excellence and placing patients first
• Demonstrates practice consistent with current research/standards/policies
• Participates in orientation of new employees
• Serves as a resource for staff members, students, residents, and fellows
• Presents and coordinates educational opportunities for department staff
• Serves on hospital committees as needed
• Demonstrates fiscally responsible resource utilization and promotes cost containment, as appropriate
• Follows research protocols, as appropriate
• Ensures compliance with hospital policy, AACVPR guidelines, and OSHA regulations

Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• A minimum of Bachelor degree in exercise science or equivalent degree and one year of related experience OR

• Equivalent combination of medically related experience and education.

• May require ACLS, Automatic External Defibrillator, First Aide and CPR certified; AND

• Some positions may require additional certifications such as American College of Sports Medicine (ASCM), Athletic Trainer Certified (ATC) by the National Athletic trainer Association Board of Certification  (NATABOC), CSCS Certified Strengthening & Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength & Condition Association; American College on Exercise (ACE), AFAA, and First Aid.

• Positions with in person patient care: BLS certificate within 30 days of hire or prior to independent practice, whichever comes first

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Exercise Physiology (or equivalent)
• Two years' experience working in cardiac rehabilitation.
• Understanding of regulatory agency guidelines for cardiac rehabilitation
• Intermediate/Advanced electrocardiography interpretation 
• American College of Medicine Exercise Specialist Certification 

Additional Details

Constant exposure to usual cardiac rehabilitation environmental conditions

Possible exposure to body substances

Ability to work a minimum of 8 hours a day and longer, according to organizational requirements

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