Exercise Physiologist - Cardiac Rehab and Prevention

***WE ARE OFFERING A $5,000 SIGN-ON BONUS***

Summary

The Exercise Physiologist applies extensive knowledge of functional anatomy, exercise physiology, pathophysiology, electrocardiography, human behavior/psychology, and gerontology in the cardiac rehab setting. They are responsible for exercise prescription, education on lifestyle modification and conducts measurement and evaluation of exercise and physical activity-related outcomes under the supervision of the RN.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor Degree in Exercise Physiology, Science or Movement Science, or Kinesiology required.

Masters degree in Exercise Physiology, Exercise/Movement Science, or Kinesiology preferred. 

A minimum of 2 years cardiac rehab experience required.

ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Specialist required.

Holds a professional certification from a national organization that is functionally equivalent to either the ACSM’s CES or ACSM’s RCEP credentials preferred.

Previous Enhanced External Counterpulsation experience desired.

Current ACLS and BCLS certification required.

Demonstrates personal physical fitness and commitment to a lifestyle consistent with the tenets of Cardiac Rehab.

Demonstrates effective verbal and written communication skills.

ORGANIZATION

Reports to the Cardiac Rehab Manager.  The Cardiac Rehab Manager directly reports to the Director of Cardiovascular Services.

Supervises Exercise Specialist student interns.

Works closely with other hospital staff as:  Cardiovascular Service Line Staff, physicians, social workers, dieticians, RNs, pharmacists.

AGE OF PATIENTS SERVED

Cares for patients in the age category(s) checked below:

     Neonatal (birth-1 mo) X   Young adult (18 yr-25 yrs)

     Infant (1 mo-1 yr) X   Adult (26 yrs-54 yrs)

     Early childhood (1 yr-5 yrs) X    Sr. Adult (55 yrs-64 yrs)

     Late childhood (6 yrs-12 yrs) X    Geriatric (65 yrs & above)

     Adolescence (13 yrs-17 yrs)      All ages (birth & above)

     No direct clinical contact with patients

SPECIFIC DUTIES

1. Supports the Mission, Vision and Values of Munson Healthcare

1. Embraces and supports the Performance Improvement philosophy of Munson Healthcare.

1. Promotes personal and patient safety.

1. Has basic understanding of Relationship-Based Care (RBC) principles, meets expectations outlined in Commitment To My Co-workers, and supports RBC unit action plans.

1. Uses effective customer service/interpersonal skills at all times.

1. Demonstrates expertise in Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Specialist practice, knowledgeable of the health problems of cardiovascular patients and demonstrates ability to help patients achieve and maintain optimal health.

1. Reports significant medical abnormalities, such as abnormal ECG changes and signs and symptoms to physician.

1. Develops, implements, promotes and administers a program of sports medicine and exercise conditioning services to patients and other consumers of organization.

1. Supervises daily exercise in cardiac, pulmonary and PVD rehabilitation clients.

1. Evaluates, assesses, and interprets client response to an exercise program.

1. Demonstrates active participation and facilitation of phase II and III of the cardiac rehab exercise and educational programs.

1. Effectively facilitates group education classes and 1:1 sessions with patients and families.

1. Effectively facilitates and evaluates monitored exercise therapy sessions in phase II and III of Cardiac Rehab.

1. Effectively participates in the unit’s team efforts, work groups and quality improvement teams.

1. Works with other health professionals and community members toward the education and prevention of heart disease.

1. Performs all functions and activities with the highest level of professionalism, confidentiality and tact.

1. Assists in the establishment of data collection and evaluation procedures for Cardiac Rehab.

1. Contributes to the advancement and promotion of services through participation in professional associations; this may include writing articles for publication and representing MMC to community activities.

1. Monitors patients’ vital signs and be prepared to perform CPR or other necessary emergency first aid procedures, while seeking appropriate medical assistance.

1. Conducts new patient orientations including assessment, plans and evaluates patient care and provides education to cardiac patients and families, review of cardiac event, risk factors, signs and symptoms and equipment, gym and monitoring instructions.

1. Develops, assesses and reviews individualized treatment plans for phase II patients. 

1. Supervises Phase III cardiac Rehabilitation

1. Performs daily checks of emergency equipment including emergency cart, suction, oxygen and glucometer

1. May provide external counterpulsation therapy for patients with refractory angina.

1. May provide coverage and relief in Noninvasive Cardiology.   This would require understanding exercise testing of the cardiac client and interpretation of a telemetry monitor.

1. Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned.