Exercise Physiologist
Primary Function/General Purpose of Position
In collaboration with the cardiopulmonary team, the Exercise Physiologist II is responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating the exercise component of the program and for reviewing patient history, presenting lectures, and performing exercise prescriptions. Monitors the patient's response to therapy and makes recommendations to change or modify based on the assessment. Serves as preceptor to new team members.
Essential Job Functions
Review medical history, nursing intake and exercise history/ETT prior to goal setting session. Becomes familiar with patient profiles, with special attention to musculoskeletal function and cardiovascular histories. Calculate target heart range and risk stratification class, when appropriate, prior to six-minute walk test
Educate patient in self-monitoring target heart rate (THR) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE)
Write exercise prescription for clinic based on results. Document patient response to exercise, heart rate, ECG rhythm and any signs and symptoms a patient may be having.
Perform six-minute walk test or sub max exercise tolerance test during initial evaluation and discharge and documents findings
Provide patients with guidelines for exercise to be followed at home
Document on patient Individualized Treatment Plan (ITP) every 30 days; reassessment of exercise goals, response to exercise, discharge planning, and ongoing education of the patient.
Will be directly involved with and act as site supervisor for Clinic Student University Internship program.
Develop and update the education curriculum with members of the interdisciplinary team that may include but not limited to RN’s, Cardiac/Pulmonary Medical Directors, Pharmacist and Department Manager for the educational series.
Communicates with the program manager, medical director and/or cardiac nurse on a regular basis regarding any patient difficulties or adverse response to exercise
Review patient progress on a regular basis, evaluating compliance with exercise prescription and patient response to exercise.
Update exercise prescription as needed and document any change in response to exercise and/or in exercise prescription.
Maintains and updates certification for American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) (if applicable per site).
Maintains exercise equipment. Schedules periodic calibration and maintenance of equipment with bio-med or outside vendors.
Maintains the emergency equipment: Documents readiness of equipment; Orders supplies for glucometer, and O2 tanks.
Assist with cardiopulmonary education to community as requested; Participate in a minimum of one community screening/community event annually.
Attend team meetings, update staff on patient progress toward exercise goals, difficulties, and readiness for discharge.
May educate patient for ongoing cardiopulmonary wellness programs.
May assist with administrative duties, that may include but is not limited to: Ordering office supplies, medical supplies, and linens.
This document is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as required by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.
Licensing/Certification
BLS Basic Life Support - American Heart Association(required)
Advanced Cardiac Life Support - American Heart Association or Red Cross (required)
Clinical Specialty from accredited organization such as:
ACSM Certification - American College of Sports Medicine or ASEP Certification - American Society of Exercise Physiologists (preferred)
Education
Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science/ Exercise Physiology (required)
Master's Degree in Exercise Science/ Exercise Physiology (preferred)
Work Experience
Minimum 2+ years previous experience in adult fitness and/or cardiac rehabilitation programs (preferred)
Training
None
Patient Population
Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his or her assigned unit.
Demonstrates knowledge of the principles of growth and development of the life span and possesses the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his or her age, specific needs and to provide the care needed as described in departmental policies and procedures.
Neonates (0-4 weeks)
Infant (1-12 months)
Pediatrics (1-12 years)
Adolescents (13-17 years)
Adults (18-64 years)
Geriatrics (65 years and older)
Not applicable to this position
Working Conditions
Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur.
Long-distance or air travel as needed- not to exceed 10% travel.
General office environment.
May be exposed to high noise levels and bright lights.
May be exposed to physical altercations and verbal abuse.
May be exposed to limited hazardous substances or body fluids.*
May be required to use physical restraints.
May be exposed to human blood and other potentially infectious materials.*
May be exposed to adverse weather conditions; cold, hot, dust, wind, etc.
May have periods of constant interruptions.
Required to car travel to off-site locations, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.
Prolonged periods of working alone.
____ Other:
____ Not applicable to this position
* Individuals in this position are required to exercise universal precautions, use personal protective equipment and devices, and learn the policies concerning infection control.
Additional Physical Requirements/Hazards
Physical Requirements
Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination)
Perform shift work
Maneuver weight of patients
Hear alarms/telephone/audio recordings
Reach above shoulder
Repetitive arm/hand movements
Finger Dexterity
Color Vision
Acuity – far
Acuity – near
____ Not applicable to this position
Hazards
Depth perception
Use of Latex products
Exposure to toxic/caustic/chemicals/detergents
Exposure to moving mechanical parts
Exposure to dust/fumes
Exposure to potential electrical shock
Exposure to x ray/electromagnetic energy
Exposure to high pitched noises
Gaseous risk exposure
Other:
____ Not applicable to this position
Skills
Critical Thinking
Effective Communication
Active Listening
Collaboration
patient care
physiologic data acquisition
patient management
internal and external customers
inventory equipment and supplies
attention to detail
Working within an interdisciplinary team
Conflict resolution
Relationship building
Comprehensive, affordable medical, dental and vision plans
Prescription drug coverage
Flexible spending accounts
Life insurance w/AD&D
Employer contributions to retirement savings plan when eligible
Paid time off
Educational Assistance
And much more
*Benefits offerings vary according to employment status
All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health – Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours – Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employers, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com