Physical Therapy Assistant

Job Title

Therapist Assistant

Duties

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Duties include, but are not limited to:

• A. Receives / Interprets Therapy Instructions: Receives instructions for procedures to be administered via chart review of the consult note or initial evaluation note in CPRS. May receive and carry out additional instructions from Physical Therapist (PT) via addendums to therapy notes, electronic orders and chart review in CPRS. All documentation of the incumbent is co-signed by a licensed physical therapist. This clinical position includes a level of physicality normally associated with direct patient care such as long periods of standing, walking, moderate lifting, bending, etc. Part of this position will involve sedentary work involving computers and communications. Incumbent understands and carries out the requests made by the therapists or seeks assistance from the Supervisor when an uncommon, unique or new procedure is required.
• B. Assists with or Renders Treatment Based on Patient's Needs: Assists with or renders a course of treatment based on the plan of care set by the Physical Therapist and the assessed needs of the patient, implementing progressive types of physical therapy treatment programs. Assists with or performs standard physical therapy procedures outlined in the plan of care within a broad spectrum of neurological and musculoskeletal problems. Many of the treatments are standardized due to mental and physical conditions of the Veteran. Incumbent recognizes abnormalities, and brings them to the attention of the Physical Therapist. Schedules procedures, coordinating appointments with other services. Suggests different procedures if accomplishing same procedure are unlikely to produce adequate results. Monitors Veterans condition and records response to treatment, ensuring that this is made part of the permanent medical record. Recognizes deviations in Veterans condition during procedure and duty to report finding to Physical Therapist. Prepares and maintains appropriate equipment and supplies required for these treatments. Maintains a work safe environment to include non-technical maintenance of equipment, safety checks, cleaning, stocking, etc.
• C. Adapts and Adjusts Procedures: Screens, advises and assists Veteran through the physical therapy regimen. Adapts and adjusts physical therapy procedures outlined in the plan of care as needed. Performs ongoing assessment of Veteran's physical and functional status to determine tolerance to activities and interventions implemented from the plan of care. Makes mild modifications within narrowly specified limits in nonstandard physical therapy treatment approaches. Makes modifications within the scope of the established treatment plan to reflect the changing needs of the Veteran and his or her sociocultural context. Modifies treatment / intervention environment, tools, materials, and activities within the plan of care in response to each Veteran's response to treatment. Adapts the technical procedures and approaches involving standard treatment and rehabilitation objectives within the plan of care to meet the Veteran's individual needs. Seeks ongoing guidance from evaluating PT.
• D. Administrative Responsibilities:
  • 1. Inputs scheduling data into hospital CPRS. Completes and documents initial evaluations within 24 hours, treatment interventions, re-evaluation, and discharge notes in accordance with PM&R Service and VHA policy that cover the entire course of treatment.
  • 2. Frequently selects, adapts, and adjusts kinesiotherapy intervention in accordance with rehabilitation goals. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Work Schedule: Full Time; 8:00-4:30pm Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

US Department of Veterans Affairs