Exercise Physiologist

The Exercise Physiologist provides direct and indirect care to patients participating in all phases of Cardiac Rehabilitation at Hillsboro Medical Center. This role involves evaluating, planning, coordinating, and implementing exercise therapy and education programs to limit adverse physiological and psychological effects of illness.

• Evaluates and establishes a plan of care based on patient medical information, diagnosis, and presentation through obtaining medical history, taking initial vitals, and EKG, discussing diet, and creating a plan of care.
• Performs direct patient care by monitoring vitals, electrocardiogram, and at times blood sugars.
• Recognizes changes, symptoms, and other problems related to participant's condition and determines appropriate interventions, including responding to urgent situations.
• Develops exercise prescriptions and programs that include flexibility, strength training, and cardiovascular exercise.
• Formulates a teaching plan that includes prevention, disease process, medication compliance, smoking cessation, dietary practices, physical activity, cardiovascular risks, and other needs.
• Prepares curriculums for presentation in groups and individually, evaluates correct form, and instructs participants in proper exercise techniques, education on policies and procedures.
• Maintains a safe, clean environment, monitors, orders, and stocks exercise equipment and supplies.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Kinesiology, or related field.
• Preferred: Master's degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Kinesiology, or related field.
• Experience: Completion of cardiovascular rehabilitation internship and/or 6 months of clinical experience in cardiovascular rehabilitation.
• Preferred: Bilingual skills.

• American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS required within 90 days of hire.
• Preferred: ACSM-Clinical Exercise Physiologist, AACVPR-Certified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional, AARC/AACVPR Pulmonary Rehabilitation, and Well Coaches Wellness Coach.

• Demonstrate ability to recognize abnormal EKG rhythms, including arrhythmia recognition.
• Demonstrate effective client assessment skills.
• Knowledgeable in exercise prescription and exercise testing.
• Uses effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Practices effective interpersonal skills.
• Utilizes problem-solving and decision-making related to client care and unit activity.
• Demonstrates competency in using exercise equipment.
• Demonstrates knowledge of the equipment used in the cardiac rehabilitation department, including EKG monitor, oximetry, and glucometer.
• Performs efficiently in emergency client situations following established procedures.
• Demonstrates confidentiality according to PHI regarding patient and co-worker information.
• Demonstrates an awareness of safety measures.