The Exercise Physiologist provides safe and effective Cardio-vascular testing or Pulmonary Rehabilitation sessions for adult and geriatric patients with chronic respiratory and comorbid conditions. Conducts assessment, reviews medical history and tests, formulates exercise prescription, guides and motivates patients through rehabilitation sessions, and observes and documents response to therapy while adhering to scope and standards of practice according to American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) guidelines.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Collects pertinent medical information to identify high-risk patients and takes appropriate precautionary measures. Identifies health conditions, fall risk, injuries, or other limitations and adjusts exercise program accordingly.
- Monitors patients before, during, and after exercise for physiologic variables, including heart rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, rate of perceived exertion, dyspnea, and pain. Documents findings in patient record. Keeps complete records of exercises conducted and patient's response.
- Takes appropriate preventive or emergency action as required in response to an adverse patient reaction.
- Analyzes results of tests, reviews physician reports, determines patient goals, and prescribes rehabilitative exercise programs that are consistent with program policy/procedure and professional guidelines published by ATS, ACSM, AARC and AACVPR for assigned patients. Develops Individualized Treatment Plan. Updates exercise prescription according to patient tolerance. Progresses exercise intensity, duration, and frequency based on patient’s response, according to program exercise prescription policy.
- Carries out exercise session components according to the Individualized Treatment Plan as approved by the Medical Director. Instructs and counsels patients concerning exercise program. Instructs patient on exercise equipment operation and exercise safety. Demonstrates exercises and provides feedback to ensure patient’s proper execution of exercises.
- Functions as case manager to guide assigned patients through the program from initial assessment to discharge, making sure all elements of program are completed and documented per policy.
- Provides supplemental oxygen as directed by Respiratory Therapist, applies nasal cannula or mask as appropriate, adjusts flow rate according to oxygen titration policy, ensures oxygen tanks are replaced as needed.
- Assists patient in setting goals for disease self-management. Employs adult learning theory and behavior change methods. Assesses progress toward meeting goals. Provides appropriate education and counseling within scope of practice.
- Ensures exercise programs are administered safely and in accordance with the Individualized Treatment Plan.
- Assists with education programs such as screenings, support groups, staff continuing education, marketing events, and speaking engagements. May write articles for quarterly hospital publications and make public presentations to provide rehabilitation information.
- Assists with health fairs as required.
