PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT

Overview

The Physical Therapist's Assistant is responsible for performing prescribed physical therapy treatments to patients and for providing clinical direction to physical therapy workers.

Responsibilities

Provides physical therapy treatments in a medical facility or in patient's home under the supervision of a physical therapist and in accordance with a treatment plan established by a physical therapist.

Administers exercise, massage, heat, light, sound, water, electrical, and infrared treatments and uses hot or cold packs to treat patients.

Instructs and assists patients to learn to improve their ability to walk and move from one location to another.

Instructs patients in the use and care of assistive equipment and prosthetic devices such as artificial limbs, braces, crutches, canes, walkers, and wheel chairs.

Observes patients during treatment and reports progress to physical therapist.

Provides clinical direction to physical therapy workers.

Documents in the medical record treatment provided and patient response to treatment.

Maintains necessary records and statistical reports as required.

Assists in providing inservice education programs to other hospital personnel.

Assists in cleaning and maintenance of physical therapy equipment and department.

May assist with patient transportation.

Performs other related duties as assigned

Qualifications

Successful completion of a two year accredited program leading to an associate degree in physical therapy.

Current Physical Therapist's Assistant licensure in state where working.

Minimum of one year experience in a physical therapy department preferred.