Summary

The Speech Language Pathologist delivers speech, language, cognitive and swallowing intervention to patients to provide the goal-directed activities for the improvement of function.  The Speech Therapist assists in coordinating programs designed to assist patient in obtaining the highest level of function possible.  Therapist will evaluate, plan & implement the Treatment program.  Obtains relevant information from initial evaluation needed to establish goals leading to improved function.  Evaluates the effectiveness of interventions and progresses patients to achieve goals.  Provides caretaker education necessary for carryover of therapy intervention.  Establishes discharge criteria for patients and anticipates discharge needs.  Therapist will carry out administrative duties.  Department/patient documentation completed within designated timeframe.  Delegates to/supervises aides where appropriate.  Progresses students toward achievement of facility and curriculum objectives.  Assist with orientation of new department staff, students or facility employees requiring training in communication, cognition and/or swallowing.  Possesses skills for communicating effectively with staff, patients and families.  Communicates relevant patient information to other members of health care team to promote interdisciplinary team goals.  Demonstrates an awareness of patient issues that need further medical attention and communicates with nurses and physician.  Seeks supervision as needed.  May be assigned other duties as appropriate.

Qualifications

• Arts or Science degree from an accredited curriculum
• Completion of a nine-month full time Clinical Fellowship Year
• Certification of Clinical Competence from ASHA
• CPR Certification required, or willing to obtain within six months of employment
• One to two years of experience with geriatrics preferred
• Qualified new graduates will be considered
• Must have the ability to communicate well personally and professionally
• Possess responsibility, initiative, and honesty
• Demonstrates strong desire to work with the elderly and rehabilitation populations
• Requires extensive mobility: transferring patients, moving equipment, lifting, reaching, and moving around obstacles
• Fine motor coordination and visual/perceptual skills needed for selecting and implementing treatment tasks