Physical Therapist Assistant

The Physical Therapist's Assistant is responsible for performing prescribed physical therapy treatments to patients and for providing clinical direction to physical therapy workers.

Responsibilities

Provides physical therapy treatments in a medical facility or patient’s home under the direction and supervision of a Physical Therapist and in accordance with an established treatment plan.

Administers therapeutic interventions, including exercise, massage, heat, light, sound, water, electrical stimulation, infrared treatments, and hot or cold packs as prescribed.

Instructs and assists patients in improving mobility, ambulation, transfers, and functional movement.

Educates patients in the proper use and care of assistive devices and prosthetic equipment, including artificial limbs, braces, crutches, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs.

Observes patients during treatment sessions and reports patient progress, responses, and concerns to the supervising Physical Therapist.

• Provides clinical direction and guidance to Physical Therapy support personnel as assigned.
• Documents treatments provided and patient responses accurately and timely in the medical record.
• Maintains required patient records, documentation, and statistical reports.
• Assists in the development and presentation of in-service education programs for hospital personnel.
• Assists with the cleaning, maintenance, and organization of physical therapy equipment and departmental areas.
• May assist with patient transportation as needed.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education:

Successful completion of a two-year accredited program leading to an Associate Degree in Physical Therapy required.

Work Experience

Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a Physical Therapy department preferred.

Licensure/Certification

Current Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) licensure in the state of practice required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of physical therapy principles, techniques, and treatment procedures.
• Ability to provide physical therapy treatments under the direction and supervision of a Physical Therapist.
• Ability to instruct patients in therapeutic exercises, ambulation, transfers, and the use of assistive devices.
• Ability to observe, assess, and report patient responses to treatment.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to accurately document treatments and patient progress in the medical record.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Knowledge of patient safety, infection prevention, and rehabilitation practices.