Job Description

Acute Care - Part Time - Physical Therapy Assistant

Job Summary

Under the direction/supervision of a Physical Therapist, the Physical Therapy Assistant administers rehabilitative/habilitative techniques necessitated as a result of age, trauma, degenerative disease, congenital condition or sudden onset of pathology which requires development, maintenance, or restoration of function. 

Essential Functions

Planning Assists the Physical Therapist in evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment plan and makes appropriate changes to achieve desired clinical outcomes. Identifies and prioritizes functional limitations. Identifies realistic long-term and short-term goals described in functional or behavioral terms appropriate to the individual’s needs, personal goals and expected outcomes. Determines treatment techniques and activities needed to achieve goals. Outlines the proposed intervention including frequency and duration. Achieves an interdisciplinary team approach by consulting with team members, including patient/family, regarding treatment plan and delivery model. Assists with discharge planning and recommendations for additional services to meet the needs of the patient. Treatment Utilizes appropriate treatment methods based on functional needs of patient. Provided under the ongoing direct care of or under the direction/supervision of a physical therapist. Focuses on posture, balance, locomotion, strength, endurance, coordination, joint mobility, flexibility, pain and functional abilities in daily skills. Adheres to appropriate and safe application of modalities, therapeutic exercises and activities. Is altered in accordance with changes in response or status. Is provided at a level that is consistent with current physical therapy practice. Is interdisciplinary when necessary to meet the needs of the patient. Discontinued when goals/outcomes achieved, no longer a benefit from physical therapy, patient declines to continue intervention. Education Utilizes appropriate education and training to provide knowledge of illness and treatment needs as well as skills and behaviors that promote recovery and improve function. Is appropriate to the individual’s age/developmental level, gender, education, culture and socioeconomic status. Is presented in ways understandable to patient/family. Allows for demonstrated understanding of the information issued. Utilizes various methods to achieve desired educational outcome. Documentation Completes appropriate documentation and communication of all aspects of patient care including results of initial evaluation, plan of care, interventions, response to interventions, changes in status, reassessments, education and discharge. Completes within designated time frames. Includes all relevant information as outlined by organizational/division policy, accrediting agencies, regulatory agencies and state practice act. Ensures clear, concise and relevant documentation for the type of care/treatment being provided. Dated and appropriately authenticated by the therapist. Adheres to all laws and regulations regarding patient confidentiality and disclosure of protected health information. Professionalism Utilizes sound professional judgment based on knowledge, skill, education, training and experience. Abides by state practice act and guide for professional conduct. Establishes and maintains an effective working relationship with patients/families, co-workers, other health care professionals and the community. Takes responsibility for own actions. Utilizes effective communication techniques. Applies effective problem-solving techniques. Assumes responsibility for professional growth and development. Performs other duties as assigned. Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

Associate Degree in Physical Therapy required 0-1 years in a PT Assistant Role preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Demonstrates thorough knowledge of human growth and development; anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and kinesiology; current methods, techniques and purposes of physical therapy; the care and operation of physical therapy equipment. Requires strong analytical and organizational skills in order to review physician’s orders, assess functional status, develop treatment plans, evaluate progress and maintain related documentation. Demonstrates a high level of interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, in order to establish and maintain positive and effective therapeutic/working relationships with patients, families, physicians and hospital staff. Demonstrates working knowledge of the English language, verbal and written.

Licenses and Certifications

PTA - Physical Therapist Assistant required