Physical Therapist, Acute Care Hospital
New Orleans, Louisiana
Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans

Physical Therapist - Acute Care Hospital (Travel/Contract)

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Specialty: Therapy/Rehabilitation
Employment Type: Travel/Contract
Contract Length: 13 weeks

Job Description

• Work primarily with a geriatric patient population on general medicine floors within an acute care environment.
• Patients are high acuity within a regional referral center.
• May be assigned to an "Emergency Team" during emergency events, requiring you to stay at the facility until the event passes or be part of a relief team.
• Floating to other general medicine floors within the hospital may be required.
• Shift: Day shift, typically 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (may vary between 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM).
• Weekend Requirement: 4 weekend shifts per month (schedule details discussed during interview).
• First-time travelers are accepted for this role.

Required Qualifications

• Valid Physical Therapist license in Louisiana.
• Minimum 2 years of Physical Therapist experience, including experience within the last year.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (AHA or RQI accepted). Renewal required if expiring within 30 days of start date.

Compliance & Documentation Requirements

• 7-year criminal background check completed within 90 days of start, updated annually.
• EPLS/GSA/SAM and HHS/OIG checks required within 30 days of start and updated monthly.
• Education verification of highest level completed (transcript/diploma acceptable if verification cannot be completed).
• Negative 10-panel drug screen within 60 days of start (instant screenings not accepted).
• Physical exam within 12 months prior to start, indicating good physical health.
• Fit mask testing (N95) within one year of start; onsite fit testing available if needed.
• Immunizations and titers required:

  • Measles (Rubeola), Mumps, Rubella: Positive IGG titer or completed vaccine series (2 doses).
  • Hepatitis B: Positive antibody titer, completed vaccine series, booster after negative titer, or signed declination within 1 year.
  • Varicella: Positive IGG titer, completed vaccine series, or booster after negative titer.
  • Tdap: Required only for select departments (not required for this role).
• TB testing: Negative PPD, Qgold, or Tspot within 12 months; if positive, chest X-ray and symptom-free questionnaire required.
• Seasonal flu vaccination, declination, or medical/religious exemption required during flu season (Oct 1 - Mar 31).

Additional Requirements

• Resume/application required with 7 years of employment history and explanations for any gaps.
• Skills checklist updated annually.
• Color passport-style photo (no filters or obstructions) uploaded within 24 hours of booking.
• Candidates must be comfortable with emergency event assignments as described.

Work Hours

• 40 hours per week, 5 days a week, 8-hour shifts.
• Typical shift: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (may vary slightly).

Notes

• Prior travel experience is not required.
• Emergency team participation is mandatory if assigned.
• Floating to other units may be required.
• This role is suitable for first-time travel therapists.