Physical Therapy Assistant

Physical Therapy Assistant

The majority of duties and responsibilities of this position are carried out within the medical center's outpatient and inpatient care areas. Occasionally, the PTA may assist in other areas associated with the physical therapy section of PM&RS as directed by the Supervisory Physical Therapist. Duties performed include, but are not limited to the following:

• Modifies and adapts therapeutic interventions for simple and complex cases with a wide range of diagnoses and disabilities.
• Identifies and trains patients in the use of adaptive devices to promote maximum independence.
• Receives and interprets requests or instructions for procedures from the physical therapist or physician.
• Plans and implements specialized treatment programs, some of which are for patients with complex medical problems and applies physical therapy procedures to patients under the general supervision of a physical therapist. Employees may carry out or oversee the work of lower graded assistants to accommodate requests.
• Knowledge of evidence based physical therapy practice.
• Utilizes physical therapy data collection and assessment techniques in order to perform specific interventions and to monitor and capture progress of the patient/client. Independently implements treatment plan using knowledge of techniques related to the patient's disability and needs.
• Provides varied and multifaceted physical therapy interventions based on the established care plan (e.g., therapeutic exercise, balance, body mechanics, flexibility, strength, gait training, neuromotor development, physical agents, functional training, etc.). This is done in consultation with a Physical Therapist.
• Able to verbalize the importance of correct patient identification, and the consequences of identification errors.
• Maintains a high level of competence through participation in continuing education programs. Assists with the supervision and training of student physical therapy assistants, volunteers, work students and other healthcare practitioners.
• Reads and interprets written communication. Documents findings appropriately in the patients' records according to Medical Center and PM&RS policies.
• Utilizes complex therapeutic techniques and uses problem solving skills to maximize patient's functional status.
• Able to verbalize the importance of correct patient identification, and the consequences of identification errors.
• Maintains a safe work environment to include non-technical maintenance of equipment, safety checks, cleaning, stocking, etc. Develops safe work habits to prevent injury to patients, co-workers and self. Reports to Lead Physical Therapist the need for equipment or items necessary for patient treatment.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm, to include weekends and holidays as necessary for patient care (subject to change based on the needs of the facility).

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 00431F/ 00432F/ 00433F/00434F

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized