Position Summary: Provides clinical education and evaluation to therapy and patient care staff and facilitates evidenced-based research within a specialized area of therapy. Collaborates with medical practitioners to incorporate therapy processes into the plan of care for a specialized group of patients. Performs direct specialty therapy services to patients as required, ensuring adherence to Joint Commission standards and all related policies, procedures, and guidelines.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

1. Provides educational leadership to patients and care providers to enhance specialized patient care within established clinical protocols.
2. Assists patients and caregivers with educational needs, problem resolution and health management across the continuum of care.
3. Collaborates with medical providers, patient care staff and unit management in the planning, implementation, and delivery of educational curricula.
4. Initiates clinical skills development programs within the parameters of established clinical and preceptor models; monitors trends and implements educational strategies to ensure compliance with quality standards and parameters.
5. Provides direct specialized therapy services to an assigned group of patients, providing specialized patient care within therapy protocols and assisting in the performance of all related therapy duties.
6. Develops patient care plans, incorporating evidenced-based research and national standards; consults with and serves as a clinical resource for unit management to ensure quality patient care.
7. Educates technical and patient care staff in the use of new equipment, supplies, and instruments; coordinates in-service training and workshops for appropriate staff.
8. Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
9. Acts as a resource or consultant to individuals, groups and departments institution-wide and seeks consultation with outside experts to achieve patient goals.
10. Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
11. Complies with federal, state, and local legal and certification requirements by studying existing and new legislation; anticipating future legislation; enforcing adherence to requirements; advising management on needed actions.
12. Performs other related duties as required and directed.