Outpatient Physical Therapist Assistant

Summary and Essential Functions

Summary of Major Function

Licensed Physical Therapists Assistants are responsible for the delivery of skilled patient care in a safe and timely manner to all of those referred for services. The Physical Therapist Assistant understands and adheres to all hospital and departmental policies and procedures, as well as complying with the New Hampshire Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Act.

Essential Fuctions and Work Role Responsiblities

Clinical Outpatient Duties

Physical Therapy Assistant practice is based on the New Hampshire Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Act, which includes:

1. Patient Care Assistance: Work closely with the Physical Therapist to assist in providing hands-on patient care, including implementing treatment plans, performing therapeutic exercises, and applying modalities as prescribed.

2. Rehabilitation Support: Assist patients in their rehabilitation and functional improvement journey, with a focus on mobility, strength, and coordination, under the guidance of the supervising Physical Therapist.

3. Assessment Support: Support the Physical Therapist in conducting patient assessments and tracking progress, documenting findings, and providing insights to contribute to the development of treatment plans.

4. Patient Education: Educate patients and their families on prescribed exercises, self-care strategies, and preventive measures, ensuring they have a clear understanding of their treatment plans.

5. Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate closely with the interdisciplinary healthcare team, including physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals, to ensure coordinated patient care and successful treatment outcomes.

6. Inpatient Care: Provide physical therapy services in inpatient settings as needed, such as acute care and/or the intensive care unit, actively participating in patient rounds and discharge planning to facilitate smooth transitions.

7. Documentation and Record Keeping: Assist in maintaining comprehensive and accurate patient records, including daily documentation, ensuring that documentation is compliant with state regulations and legal requirements.

8. Continuing Education: Pursue opportunities for professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in the field, attending workshops, seminars, and relevant courses to enhance your clinical skills and knowledge.

9. Compliance and Regulatory Adherence: Strictly adhere to all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards governing the practice of physical therapy in New Hampshire, upholding the highest levels of professional and ethical integrity.

REPORTS TO: Director of Rehabilitation Services

SUPERVISES: Rehabilitation aide and Physical therapist assistant students.

Internal and External Contacts

Patients and families, Hospital Personnel, Physicians and office staff, Financial and Legal Representatives, Community Members, Contracting Agencies, Students and Academic Coordinators, Home Health, and Co-workers

Qualifications

Experience/Specialized Skills

Outpatient experience preferred

Easily adjusts to changes in schedule

Requirements

• Graduated from an accredited Physical therapist assistant program
• Licensed or eligible for licensure in the state of New Hampshire
• BCLS - every 2 years
• 24 contact hours of continuing education as designated by the New Hampshire Licensing Board - every 2 years

Physical Demands

See Physical Demands worksheet

Work Environment

Works primarily in hospital and outpatient clinic areas with occasional work in community areas. Exposure to heat, cold, and hazards including communicable diseases and blood borne pathogens due to patient conditions and equipment