Physiotherapy Technical Instructor

Job overview

The Physiotherapy Department at Derriford Hospital are looking for enthusiastic, well-motivated individual to join our outpatient and hydrotherapy team as a technical Instructor. The successful applicant will be working alongside physiotherapists to provide a quality musculoskeletal and hydrotherapy service to a wide variety of patients from the Plymouth locality.

The post will allow the individual to develop technical instructor competencies and work within set protocols to implement and progress treatment regimes within pre defined guidelines. Duties will also the management and care of walking aids, some general duties within the outpatient department, hydrotherapy department and administration tasks.

There is an established in-service training programme for assistants and training will be given to the successful applicant to enable them to fulfil their duties safely and effectively. Support will be give for CPD and you take part in the regular system of appraisals.

Main duties of the job

Working under the supervision of a Physiotherapist, to undertake a variety of tasks (clinical and non-clinical), to support the delivery of physiotherapy to patients within the outpatient physiotherapy and hydrotherapy service.

To work without direct supervision, but under the direction of Physiotherapy staff in the performance of specific tasks for an individual or group of patients within the physiotherapy outpatient service. To deliver treatment and rehabilitation programmes within protocols and competencies specific to this post. To act as first contact in specific situations. To perform reviews for patients working within a competency framework.

To assist in the smooth running of the hydrotherapy department, treat patients within a competency framework, become familiar with all aspects of this department including a basic understanding of the mechanisms relating to hydrotherapy and some administrative duties.

Supervision takes the form of 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.

***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.***

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

• 1.     To work without direct supervision, but under the direction of Physiotherapist in the performance of specific tasks for an individual or group of patients, as part of their treatment and rehabilitation programmes.

Duties may include:

• Implementation of treatment plans delegated by Physiotherapist
• Progress patients within specific pathways
• Recognising patients deviating from pathway and manage appropriately
• Teaching use of walking aids
• Carrying own caseload of non-complex patients
• Discharging of specific patients 2.     To maintain confidentiality at all times in relation to patients and their treatment. 3.     To be involved in the training, development and supervision needs of Physiotherapy Assistants. 4.     To assistant Physiotherapist in the treatment of heavily dependent patients, this includes the use of hoists, patient handling equipment, etc. 5.     To update patient records in a concise, accurate and timely manner in line with departmental standards. 6.   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. 7.     To undertake any clerical duties as necessary.  This may include maintaining stock levels, registration of patients, reception duties, filing, dealing with telephone calls, cleaning. 8.     Communicate with the physiotherapists, and other members of the multi-professional team, regarding changes in the patient's condition or any other useful information. 9.     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. 10.   To work as part of team rota to provide weekend service to in-patient wards.

See the attached job description for the role, and (where applicable) you can download a copy of the full job description.