Exercise Physiologist develops, implements, and evaluates exercise programs for patients. Conducts testing that assesses cardiovascular and metabolic effects of exercise for cardiac and musculoskeletal rehabilitation. Being an Exercise Physiologist follows testing protocols and selects appropriate testing protocol for the patient. Monitors patient during testing. Additionally, Exercise Physiologist calculates and records testing results. Coordinates with cross-functional patient care teams. May design exercise prescriptions, instructional materials, home exercise guidelines, and discharge instructions. Conducts exercise training sessions for patients. Requires a bachelor's degree in exercise physiology. Typically reports to a manager. The Exercise Physiologist work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. To be an Exercise Physiologist typically requires 4 -7 years of related experience. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)
The Exercise Physiologist is responsible for assisting the patient in achieving their optimal functional capacity through exercise, education, and risk factor modification. They will implement and supervise exercise prescriptions for cardiovascular, pulmonary, and metabolic populations, provide education on safe and prudent exercise principles, and develop appropriate risk reduction/treatment plans. They will communicate with the rehabilitation staff and other health care providers as part of a comprehensive health care team.
Essential Job Functions
• Supports and models behaviors consistent with Billings Clinic’s mission, vision, values, code of business conduct and service expectations. Meets all mandatory organizational and departmental requirements. Maintains competency in all organizational, departmental and outside agency standards as it relates to the environment, employee, patient safety or job performance.
• Prepares and adjusts individual exercise prescriptions in accordance with patient status, policy, and/or physician recommendations.
• Performs exercise with program participants demonstrating correct body position and technique, along with proper use of equipment to prevent injury and to follow exercise prescription.
• Assists with emergency care according to cardiac rehabilitation policy and within expertise/certification.
• Monitors program participants and reports inappropriate responses to prescribed exercise. Adds or eliminates exercise as needed.
• Documents initial and daily assessment data in participant’s records.
• Provides education for participants regarding home exercise programs, use of exercise equipment, and healthy lifestyle behaviors.
• Works with patients in the development and implementation of the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and/or metabolic risk reduction plan. Prepares progress reports and final summaries, and documents outcomes for the participants.
• Assists in the development and participates in wellness clinics, health fairs, and outreach clinics as appropriate. Assists in the development/updating of policies and procedures and educational materials as indicated.
• Identifies needs and sets goals for own growth and development; meets all mandatory organizational and departmental requirements. Maintains knowledge regarding current trends in exercise and rehabilitation by staying familiar with a variety of field’s concepts, practices and procedures.
• Maintains competency in all organizational, departmental and outside agency environmental, employee or patient safety standards relevant to job performance.
• Performs all other duties as assigned or as needed to meet the needs of the department/organization.