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Physical Therapy- Outpatient Orthopedic- Registry

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab · Chicago, IL · Part time

Posted Oct 2, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

How do you document a session as a registry PT so the regular therapist knows what happened?

What they are checking: Whether they write clear notes and handoffs that support continuity of care.

Tell me about a time you had to be flexible about your schedule at work.

What they are checking: Whether they can handle the unpredictable hours that come with registry work.

What do you do to stay current when you're not working full time?

What they are checking: Whether they keep their skills fresh through continuing education despite fewer hours.

What would you do

As a registry therapist, you'll come in as needed. How do you get ready to treat patients you've never met before?

What they are checking: Whether they review charts and plans quickly so care stays consistent with the primary therapist.

A patient says the exercises from their usual therapist make their pain worse. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they reassess and adjust carefully while communicating with the primary therapist.

A patient shows up late and you only have 20 minutes. How do you use that time?

What they are checking: Whether they prioritize the most important parts of the session and stay calm under time pressure.

About the work

How do you decide which modality, like heat, ultrasound or electrical stimulation, to use with a patient?

What they are checking: Whether they use modalities based on evidence and goals rather than out of habit.

Walk me through how you'd progress exercise for a patient after rotator cuff repair.

What they are checking: Whether they follow post-surgical protocols and adjust based on how the patient responds.

How do you evaluate a patient's motor and neurological function in an orthopedic setting?

What they are checking: Whether they screen for neurological signs that could change the diagnosis and treatment plan.

When would you send a patient back to their physician instead of treating them?

What they are checking: Whether they recognize red flags and know when therapy isn't safe or appropriate.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is the global leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation for adults and children with the most severe, complex conditions. By joining our team, you’ll be part of our life-changing mission and vision. You’ll contribute to an innovative, multifaceted culture that is second to none — one that embraces collaboration, excellence, discovery and compassion. You’ll play a role in something that’s never been done before as we integrate science and clinical care to help patients achieve better, faster outcomes — as we Advance Human Ability, together. Job Description Summary The Physical Therapist will assist patients in reaching maximum physical performance while adjusting to disabilities. Treats disabled patients using standard physical therapy therapeutic interventions such as heat, cold, electricity, traction, ultrasound and exercise. Evaluates patient motor and neurological capabilities and adapts physical therapy program as appropriate. The Physical Therapist will consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab statement of Vision, Mission and Core Values by striving for excellence, contributing to the team efforts and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees, and all others with whom there is contact at or in the interest of the institute. The Physical Therapist will demonstrate Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Core Attributes: Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service and Core Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration, and Commitment to Excellence) while fulfilling job duties. Job Description The Physical Therapist: • Evaluates patient's physical and functional status including muscular strength, motor functions, reflexes, ambulation skills and ability to perform activities of daily living. • Observes and interviews patient, reviews medical history, and administers sensory tests, muscle tests, range-of-motion exams, and other evaluation techniques. • Determines suitability for treatment based on patient evaluation results, including such physical therapy treatment modalities as whirlpool, ultrasounds, massage, biofeedback, paraffin and prosthetics/orthotics and/or monitors or administers the application of treatment. • Evaluates patient’s current pain levels (0-10) and history of recent pain experience; provides appropriate pain education and intervention in consultation with physician and pain specialists as needed; provides ongoing assessment of pain and implementation of tools for management. • Establishes therapy goals, and formulates a treatment plan including exercise, modalities, balance activities, and gait training. • Discusses evaluation, goals, and treatment with patient and family and instructs them on the exercise program and in use of equipment. • Participates in patient discharge planning including developing an in-home program when appropriate. • Documents patient evaluation and progress, maintaining records for physicians and insurance carriers. • Determines and orders appropriate devices necessary to assist patients in performing physical activities such as wheelchairs, canes, crutches and prosthetic and orthopedic devices. • May participate in the Department education program by teaching and supervising students. • Participates in research projects as needed. • Performs all other duties that may be assigned in the best interest of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Reporting Relationships: • Reports directly to assigned Clinical Manager, Therapy Manager-Innovation Center, Therapy Manager-AbilityLab. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required: • Knowledge of anatomy and physiology and physical therapy treatments and modalities at a level normally acquired through completion of Doctoral degree from an accredited school of physical therapy. • Licensed to practice in the State of Illinois. • Current CPR certification required. • Understanding of the growth and development of infant, child, adolescent and geriatric patients. • Ability to interpret growth and development related information to assure patient needs are met. • Interpersonal skills to interact with physicians, patients and families in providing therapy and exchanging patient progress information. • Analytical ability to determine priorities, provide input regarding the development of departmental policies, procedures and budgets, and assess new programs and recommend changes. • Ability to lift 20 to 50 pounds occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds frequently to transfer and position patients. Working Conditions: • Normal office environment with little or no exposure to dust or extreme temperature. • Some exposure to infectious diseases when working with patients. • May include exposure to community, home, work, school and off-site clinic settings. • Includes Saturday and Sunday rotation work. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Pay and Benefits*: Pay Range: 57.00 USD Hourly Benefits: Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a comprehensive benefits program that is competitive with our industry peers in our geographic locations: https://www.sralab.org/benefits *Benefits and benefits’ eligibility can vary by position. Benefits Learn about the benefits of working at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, including vacation hour, healthcare plans, 401k and more. Benefits Equal Employment Opportunity Employer Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, order of protection status, unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other characteristics protected by law. EEO is the Law | EEO is the Law - Know Your Rights | View our Full Policy Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an Affirmative Action Employer as required by law.

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