Physical Therapist Assistant

Description

General Job Summary: Responsible for performing physical therapy procedures and related tasks under the direction of a Physical Therapist.

Essential Job Functions:

1. Assists Physical Therapists in providing services that help improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities of patients suffering from diseases or injuries.
2. Helps Physical Therapists fulfill patient treatment plan and procedures such as exercises, manual therapy and modalities as prescribed by the therapist in the plan of care.
3. Records patient responses to treatments and reports outcomes of treatment to the physical therapist through proper documentation.
4. Keeps treatment area clean and organized in preparation for each patient’s therapy.
5. Helps patients’ moving to/from treatment area as needed.
6. Compliance with HIPAA, OSHA and safety standards of organization.
7. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with patients, providers, and co-workers.
8. Ensure licensures are current and up to date.
9. Performs other duties that may be necessary or in the best interest of the department/practice.

Requirements

Education/Experience: Successful completion of physical therapist assistant program of accredited school. Minimum one year of experience in a clinical setting preferred. Current state license for a Physical Therapy Assistant required. CPR/AED certification.

Other Requirements: Schedules will change as department needs change, including overtime and weekends. Travel as needed.

Performance Requirements:

Knowledge:

1. Knowledge of how to carry out treatment plans as prescribed by physician and developed by physical therapist.
2. Knowledge of operating therapeutic equipment and devices used in physical therapy clinics.
3. Knowledge of HIPAA, OSHA and safety regulations.
4. Knowledge of electronic health record and practice management systems.

Skills:

1. Skill in assisting Physical Therapist with patient care.
2. Skill in using assistive devices effectively to aid patients.
3. Excellent adaptability skills.
4. Excellent organizational and multi-tasking skills.

Abilities:

1. Ability to communicate clearly with staff, patient, and families.
2. Ability to observe patients and report outcomes and concerns to Physical Therapist.
3. Ability to follow instructions carefully when assisting Therapists.
4. Ability to organize work environment and work load to meet needs of the organization.
5. Ability to work as a team player.

Equipment Operated: Standard office and physical therapy equipment.

Work Environment: Physical therapy clinic.

Mental/Physical Requirements: Often have to stoop, kneel, crouch, lift, and stand for long periods. Frequently move heavy equipment, lift patients or help them turn, stand or walk. Occasionally must be able to lift and carry 50+ pounds.