Job Description

Demonstrates Competency in the following areas

• Upon physician referral performs patient evaluations to determine problems and goals.
• Able to assess patient pain interfering with optimal level of function or participation in rehabilitation – makes appropriate physician contact for intervention.
• Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical / health care errors.
• Prepares reports related to Speech/Language Pathology activities, including performance improvement activities.
• Documents appropriately in the medical record for all Speech/Language Pathology treatments, assessments and evaluations performed for the inpatient and outpatient population.
• Formulates a teaching plan based upon identified learning needs and evaluates effectiveness of learning, family is included in teaching as appropriate.
• Develops and implements effective treatment programs in consultation with physicians. Treats patients in accordance with Speech/Language Pathology standards of care and practice.
• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic and religious/spiritual needs of patients and their families.
• Confers with the individuals most closely associated with the patient and keeps them informed on patient needs, treatment modifications and progress.
• Performs examinations such as swallowing examinations accurately and communicates results timely to all appropriate members of the healthcare team.
• Interacts professionally with patient/family and involves patient/family in the formation of the plan of care.
• Intercedes for the patient when dietary revisions are necessary to prevent aspiration.
• Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients’ needs are met and hospital policy is followed.
• Maintains records pertinent to personnel and operation of the department.
• Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.
• Maintains a good working relationship both within the department and with other departments.
• Treats patients of all ages (i.e. pediatric to geriatric), race, gender and disability without bias.
• Consults other departments as appropriate to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities.
• Communicates appropriately and clearly to physicians, staff and administrative team.
• Participates in departmental education on performance improvement. Attends departmental orientation and in-service training for department staff members, participates in guidance and educational programs.
• Maintains standards of professional Speech/Language Pathology society procedures and ethical behavior.
• Adheres to faculty Service Standards.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Regulatory Requirements

• Master’s degree from an approved college of school of speech/language pathology.
• Current Wisconsin license in Speech Pathology
• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) or obtained within 1 year of hire date
• Knowledge of principals and practice of speech pathology
• Performance of technical skills related to speech pathology
• Knowledge of infection control, sterile technique and related impact on rehabilitative medicine practice and equipment.
• Current CPR

Language Skills

• Able to effectively communicate in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Excellent interpersonal skills

Skills

• Basic computer knowledge
• Knowledge of equipment utilized in the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of speech pathology
• Must be able to determine appropriate patient procedures and evaluate results
• Ability to maintain control and respond calmly and positively during crisis situations. (i.e. Code Blue)
• Appropriate telephone communication

Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift, stand, bend, stoop, kneel, perform physical demands for position, including vision, hearing and repetitive motion.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position without compromising patient care