Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Job Summary

The PTA, supervised by the Physical Therapist, is responsible for delivering and supporting the therapeutic programs) designed and established by the Physical Therapist as per licensing guidelines. Provides clinical supervision to Rehab Aides/Restorative Aides and Rehab Students under the direction of the Physical Therapist. The PTA is responsible for supporting the department’s goals as directed by the Rehabilitation Manager.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Assists in the implementation of participant treatment plans as established by the Physical Therapist.
• Clearly documents treatment interventions and outcomes, status updates and participant/caregiver education in accordance with PACE RI policies.
• Supports the organization by participating in new employee orientation (Ergonomics/SafeLift) and annual CNA competency day (transfer training, DME use).
• Identifies own learning needs and seeks out educational experiences to meet those needs.
• Incorporates departmental policies and procedures into daily routine, makes recommendations for changes as appropriate.
• Organizes a schedule that reflects participant care priorities and organizational needs.
• Ensures that equipment is in working condition and meets departmental standards prior to participants treatment. Reports defective equipment to supervisor promptly.
• Inspects in-home DME and assistive devices needed to keep equipment free from defect according to equipment policies. Performs minor DME repairs as directed by Rehab policy.
• Uses facility equipment and supplies in a cost-effective manner.
• Required to work at all PACE-RI sites as necessary as well as in the community as needed.
• Maintains requirements for RI licensure.
• Performs other related duties as required and assigned.

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Dependable and punctual with ability to maintain consistent attendance.
• Ability to read, write and comprehend English.
• Ability to maintain sound judgement under stress and communicate effectively.
• Ability to proficiently perform clinical/skilled tasks associated within scope of position.
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite or similar software.

Education Requirements

• Associates Degree, Required

Physical Requirements

• Physical ability to regularly stoop, bend, kneel, lift, stand, walk, stretch and reach for extended periods of time. 
• Must be able to regularly lift objects up to 25 pounds and at times up to 35 pounds.
• Must be able to assist a 200-250 lb. participant, using proper body mechanics. 
• Must have hearing and vision abilities within normal range (corrected) to drive safely and/or to observe and communicate with participants. 
• Must be able to navigate various departments of the organization's physical premises as well as related community care settings. 
• Must be able to tolerate conditions typically associated within a medical office and/or home care setting including potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens and infectious diseases. 
• Must be able to complete assignments in variable weather conditions and ever-changing and sometimes allergenic environments in participant homes, including extreme heat, humidity, dust, smoke, pet contamination, and cleaning supplies. 

Experience

• 2 Years of direct service work, Preferred
• 1 Year of experience in a Medical or Geriatric Care setting, Preferred
• 1 year of experience working with a frail or elderly population, Preferred 

License & Certification Requirements

• Rhode Island Physical Therapist Assistant License (PTA) 

Position Requirements

• CPR Certification
• Driver's License & access to reliable transportation: community-based travel required.  

Management Responsibility: No

Time & Attendance Responsibility: No