Physical Therapist I, Pediatric Inpatient Rehabilitation
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia - Children's Seashore House

Physical Therapist I

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Employment Type: Clinical-Allied
Contract Length: 15 weeks

Job Summary

Provide physical therapy services to a pediatric caseload, primarily involving inpatient rehabilitation and patients with neurologic/brain injury or higher medical acuity. Pediatric experience is preferred but not required. Deliver evidence-based clinical care with mentorship and contribute to the education of staff, patients/families, students, and other healthcare providers.

Key Responsibilities

• Clinical Care:

  • Perform complete history and systems reviews; conduct appropriate tests and measures.
  • Evaluate and synthesize examination data to determine clinical diagnosis for basic cases; seek guidance for complex cases.
  • Develop plans of care integrating therapy into family lifestyle; provide procedural interventions with mentorship.
  • Educate patients and families with a family-centered approach.
  • Identify needs for adaptive equipment and orthotic resources.
  • Use appropriate outcome measures to assess progress and plan care or transitions.
  • Demonstrate entry-level physical therapy skills.

• Interdisciplinary Communication and Coordination:

  • Communicate and collaborate with healthcare team members, physicians, third parties, and families regarding patient goals and progress.
  • Participate in patient conferences and care planning.
  • Delegate activities appropriately to PTAs, aides, and support staff.

• Professional Development and Education:

  • Maintain current skills and knowledge through lifelong learning and departmental in-services.
  • Assist with student clinical education and may serve as a clinical instructor.
  • Share knowledge through presentations, interdisciplinary rounds, and staff in-services.

• Research and Evidence-Based Practice:

  • Apply professional judgment informed by standards, evidence, and patient values.
  • Access and apply current literature and best practices.
  • Participate in journal clubs and departmental research initiatives.

• Administration:

  • Contribute to department policies, program development, and clinical guidelines.
  • Maintain productivity and fiscal responsibility.
  • Participate in department planning and initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• Education:

  • Master’s degree in Physical Therapy required.
  • Bachelor’s degree accepted if licensed prior to December 31, 2002.

• Licensure:

  • Physical Therapy License in Pennsylvania and/or New Jersey depending on work location.

• Certifications:

  • CPR Certification with hands-on instructor-led psychomotor skills verification (e.g., American Heart Association or Red Cross).

• Experience:

  • Inpatient rehabilitation experience required.
  • Experience with neurologic/brain injury population or patients with higher medical acuity required.
  • Pediatric experience preferred but not required.

Additional Information

• Entry-level physical therapist role with mentorship provided.
• Emphasis on professional judgment, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based practice.
• Opportunities for clinical growth, education, and participation in research.