Physical Therapy Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

The Physical Therapy Assistant may be contracted or employed by the agency and is responsible for providing select physical therapy interventions. This is performed in accordance with physician orders and plan of care under the direction and supervision of the physical therapist. The physical therapy assistant will also report to and be supervised by the agency’s Director of Nursing or RN supervisor.

Must provide physical therapy assistant services to client in accordance with the directions of the physical therapist and in accordance with the directions of the physical therapist in accordance with the physician’s written plan of care. Responsibilities

• Understand and adhere to the agency’s policies and procedures. 
• Provide physical therapy assistant services to client in accordance with the directions of the physical therapist and in accordance with the physician’s written orders and written plan of care. This may include, but is not limited to the following: 
  • Assist clients in active and passive therapeutic exercises, muscle re-education, gait and functional training, transfer activities and prosthetic training. 
  • Utilization of physical agents, including, but not limited to heat, cold, water, light, electricity, ultrasound, and massage. 
  • Instruct client in care and use of wheelchairs, braces, crutches, canes and use of prosthetic or orthotic devices. 
• Observe and report to the physical therapist and Director of Nursing or RN Supervisor the client’s reaction to treatment and any changes in the client’s condition. 
• Consult with physical therapist regarding any change in treatment.
• Advise the Director of Nursing or RN supervisor of any treatment changes.
• Prepare and submit appropriate records, clinical notes, care plan updates and conference notes which will be incorporated into the client’s clinical record at least weekly.
• Participate, as required, in the agency’s home care team member meetings.
• Participate in educating the client and family.

Required Skills EDUCATION  

• Graduated from an accredited physical therapy assistant program with either an associate’s degree in science or applied science that is approved by the American Physical Therapy Association. 
• Licensed or certified as required by state law. 

SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Must have at least one (1) year of experience. Two (2) years of experience is preferred. 
• Comply with any state mandated Physical Therapy Practice Act and other legal mandates. 
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Strong knowledge of physical therapy principles, and methods.
• Comply with accepted professional, ethical and legal standards of practice.
• Excellent customer service skills and ability to deal tactfully with clients and staff.
• Treat clients, families and staff with courtesy and respect.
• Adhere to HIPAA and maintain client confidentiality.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Contact with clients under a wide variety of circumstances. Care provided in client’s living environment with varying situations or in an institution such as a hospital. May be required to respond to emergency situations. Travel required. Position includes tasks that have the potential for exposure to blood and other potentially infectious material (OPIM) such as body fluids/tissues. 
• PPE: May include gloves, mask, eye/face protection, and disposable outer covering or lab coat.
• Must be able to stand walk, squat, bend, kneel, crouch, lift, reach, twist, push and pull on a regular basis. Varied assistance is required depending on the ability of the client. Ability to work for extended periods of time while standing and being involved in physical activity. Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds. Visual and hearing acuity required.