Physical Therapy Aide

Physical Therapy Aide

Klickitat Valley Health - GOLDENDALE, WA 98620

Salary Range $19.23 - $23.43 Hourly Position Type Casual Job Shift Days

Description

General Summary:

The Physical Therapy Aide (P.T. Aide) supports the physical therapy care provided to the patient under the direction of a Physical Therapist, and based on the orders given by a provider, within his/her scope of practice (RCW 18.74.010). The PT Aide assists the Physical Therapist in preparing the patient and the care area for the therapy/treatment to be given to the patient. The PT Aide demonstrates excellence in customer service during interactions with patients, families and other customers and works collaboratively with colleagues and departments throughout the organization to provide optimal outcomes for our patients in a compassionate, professional, ethical and knowledgeable fashion. May provide necessary routine clerical support for the Physical Therapy Unit, if needed. The PT Aide is aware of the potential exposure to internal and external hazardous materials, including but not limited to: blood and blood borne pathogens, infectious/communicable diseases, potential physical injury while caring for patients. Maintains a safe and clean environment for the care of the patient. Casual positions are not eligible for benefits.

Qualifications

Minimum Education, Training & Experience (includes licenses or certifications):

• High school diploma or GED, required.
• Current BLS certification, required.
• Knowledge/comprehension of basic personal care processes given to patients, required.

Experience:

• At least one (1) year recent full-time experience providing direct patient care in an outpatient physical therapy department, either as part of a hospital or independent physical therapy business/clinic required.

Essential Functions / Responsibilities (but not limited to):

• Supports the mission, vision and values of the organization.
• Prepares treatment room/area for patient by following prescribed procedures and protocols, ensures patient privacy during treatment in the department, supplies patient with blankets, pillows, etc. for the patient's comfort, as needed.
• Prepares patient for physical therapy treatment by welcoming patient, assisting patient into the care area, providing and/or assisting patient into PT apparel or using PT equipment; comforting patient as needed based on condition/limitations.
• Provides information to patient by answering questions and requests to determine patient needs, or allay concerns/fears or anxieties.
• Helps treat patient by applying heat packs; paraffin dips; assisting patient into whirlpool baths; helping patient with using various exercise equipment, and performing various physical activities such as: walking/bending/reaching/lifting, etc.
• Educates/instructs the patient by demonstrating proper use of equipment and prescribed exercise routines; clarifies patient's understanding of PT care being ordered/given.
• Provides equipment and supplies by delivering to treatment care area; positions equipment for Physical Therapists access; may assist positioning of patient as needed.
• Provides care appropriate to condition and age of the patient, including: pediatric, geriatric and general population and maintains awareness of patient needs based on age specific factors, as well as being aware of the patient's physical and psychosocial needs.
• Reports any changes in patient status or condition to the supervising Physical Therapist, to ensure patient comfort and safety, or if the patient complains of pain and discomfort.
• Maintains department supply levels; checks stock to determine inventory levels, processes requests to Purchasing for supply orders; verifies receipt of supplies.
• Ensures operation of PT equipment; may perform preventative maintenance, reports to supervisor any malfunction or repair needs.
• Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety; maintains a safe and clean working environment.
• Provides clerical assistance for the physical therapy department as needed, such as: answering phones, scheduling appointments, entering orders/patient demographics, etc.
• Complies with all hospital policy and procedures, while upholding the high expectations of KVH.
• Attends various staff meetings and mandatory in-services as required.
• Willingness to learn and use emerging technologies, including automation tools, software applications, and artificial intelligence.
• Performs other miscellaneous duties as assigned.