This document outlines the development and implementation of a Rehabilitation Technician program at Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown, NY. It describes how the program was created in collaboration between nursing and physical therapy to enhance rehabilitation services for orthopedic patients by providing more assistance with activities of daily living and mobility. Key steps included developing job descriptions, orientations, and shared interviewing and oversight between nursing and PT. The program aims to maximize rehabilitation during shorter hospital stays. Outcomes so far have been positive feedback from patients, families, and staff on the improved rehabilitation support provided by the technicians.

1. Collaboration with Physical Therapy on
initial proposal
Job analysis, grading, and creation of
job description
Development of competencies and
orientation manual
Initial interviews in collaboration
with PT
Selection of candidates
Coordination of the orientation
schedule between nursing and PT
Program implementation
Program evaluation
Program revision and enhancement
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METHODS
REHABILITATION TECHNICIANS: AN APPROACH
TO ENHANCING THE CARE OF THE
ORTHOPEDIC PATIENT
Melissa R. Freeman, RN,BSN, Orthopedic Team Coordinator
Michael Quinn, MSPT, Director of Rehab Services
Bassett Healthcare - Cooperstown, NY
Creation of the Rehabilitation Technician program gained impetus from the
increasing need to provide more ADL and mobility support than was currently avail-
able from our hospital Physical Therapy/Occupational Department. In collaboration
with our PT/OT Department, the decision was made to proceed with a proposal for
conversion of Surgical Unit positions that would report directly to the Surgical
Nurse Manager. Decision making, however, related to hiring, standards and scope
of practice, program development and ongoing performance review, would be
shared. Initially, time was spent in writing and approval of job descriptions, setting
up the requisite didactic materials and practicum, and finally doing joint hiring inter-
views. The support and expertise these individuals have provided to the orthope-
dic population has been well-recognized by physicians, patients and their families,
PT/OT, and the orthopedic nursing staff.
PURPOSE
To create unit-based technical positions to enhance the availability of rehabili-
tation services to the orthopedic surgical population and maximize rehabilitation
benefit within a shorter length of stay.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Under the guidance of nursing staff the Rehab Technician will:
1.Implement Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy orders and initiate
exercises in accordance with guidelines
2.Coordinate patient equipment and provide support to nursing staff
including:
• set-up of trapezes and Continuous Passive Motion Machine’s (CPM)
• crutch-sizing and training
• stair climbing
• distribution and instruction of ADL equipment
• insurance verification and ordering of durable medical equipment for
home use
3.Demonstrate accountability and involvement as a member of the interdiscipli-
nary team as evidenced by documentation towards patient goals and modifi-
cations in the patients plan of care
POST-IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
• Periodic Evaluation of Rehab Tech. schedule for optimal creative use of Rehab
Tech. resources
• Ongoing education of all staff in order to improve understanding and actualization
of the Rehab Tech. role
• Ongoing communication within the interdisciplinary team (PT/OT, Nursing
Assistant, Rehab Tech.,and nursing), to ensure accurate feedback on
assignment progression and patient status.
• Difficulty retaining Rehab Tech. due to the high physical demands and
limitations of the pay scale.
“You made such a difference in my recovery
from my hip surgery.
“I had so much fun walking and learning
how to get dressed”
OUTCOMES
“Thank you so much for helping me learn
how to get in and out of the car.”
ABSTRACT