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Discussion

BSN,RN Adminstration

Wondering- is the Director of Nursing in a SNF the boss of the Physical Therapist, too? Or rather, the entire PT dept.?

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    From my experience they are not.

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    • Expert

    I think the title DON is just what it says; Director of Nursing

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    • Expert

    I've worked at many places...the DON is not in charge of therapy, nor does the DON possess the body of knowledge to run the therapy department.

    The therapy department is typically run by an experienced therapist (PT or OT). This person usually has the title of 'director of therapy operations' or 'rehab department manager' or 'lead therapist' or 'senior therapist.'

    Administratively, the administrator of the hospital or extended care facility would be in charge of the director of therapy.

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    • Expert
    I've worked at many places...the DON is not in charge of therapy, nor does the DON possess the body of knowledge to run the therapy department.

    The therapy department is typically run by an experienced therapist (PT or OT). This person usually has the title of 'director of therapy operations' or 'rehab department manager' or 'lead therapist' or 'senior therapist.'

    Administratively, the administrator of the hospital or extended care facility would be in charge of the director of therapy.

    You put it so much better than I think my response sounded. That's a tip off to me, so now I'm off to adjust my attitude :)

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    • Author

    This is what I have always thought, too. Our D.O.N. recently stated that she is "the boss of the therapy department."

    I thought.......noooo you're not.

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    • Expert

    In addition, many SNFs in the area where I live utilize contract therapy staff. Since the PTs, OTs and STs are not actual employees of the SNF in a contract situation, the DON definitely would not be their manager or superior.

    Generally, the 'boss' of a PT, OT or ST is also going to be another therapist. Though exceptions to the rule exist, these are extremely rare.

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    This wouldn't be typical. However, if your DON holds an additional title such as Vice President, Director of Nursing she could very well have the therapy department reporting to her. This is common in hospitals for the CNO to hold an executive title.

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