TENS

Term from Therapy industry explained for recruiters

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a pain management tool commonly used in physical therapy and rehabilitation settings. It's a small, portable device that delivers mild electrical currents to help relieve pain. Think of it as a natural pain relief method that therapists use instead of medication. When you see this term in resumes or job descriptions, it usually indicates that the candidate has experience with pain management techniques and using this specific equipment with patients.

Examples in Resumes

Administered TENS, TENS therapy, and TENS unit treatments to manage chronic pain patients

Trained patients in proper use of TENS devices for at-home pain management

Integrated TENS therapy into comprehensive treatment plans for post-surgical rehabilitation

Typical job title: "Physical Therapists"

Also try searching for:

Physical Therapy Assistant Rehabilitation Therapist Pain Management Specialist Occupational Therapist Physical Rehabilitation Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine the appropriate TENS settings for different patient conditions?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they assess patient pain levels, consider medical history, and adjust frequency and intensity based on individual needs. Should mention safety protocols and contraindications.

Q: How do you integrate TENS therapy into a comprehensive treatment plan?

Expected Answer: Should discuss combining TENS with other therapies, creating home exercise programs, and monitoring patient progress. Should mention documentation and insurance requirements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the contraindications for TENS therapy?

Expected Answer: Should list common contraindications like pregnancy, pacemakers, and certain skin conditions. Should demonstrate knowledge of when to use alternative treatments.

Q: How do you educate patients about using TENS units at home?

Expected Answer: Should explain patient education process, safety instructions, proper electrode placement, and monitoring of treatment effectiveness.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is TENS therapy and how does it work?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic principles of electrical nerve stimulation for pain relief in simple terms and demonstrate knowledge of basic operation of TENS units.

Q: What documentation is required when using TENS therapy?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic treatment documentation requirements, including settings used, patient response, and progress notes.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic TENS unit operation
  • Patient safety protocols
  • Basic documentation
  • Simple electrode placement

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced pain management techniques
  • Patient education
  • Treatment plan development
  • Multiple modality integration

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex case management
  • Staff training and supervision
  • Treatment protocol development
  • Quality assurance implementation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with TENS units
  • Lack of knowledge about contraindications and safety protocols
  • Poor understanding of pain management principles
  • Inadequate documentation skills

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