Physical Therapist Assistant - Per Diem

Physical Therapy Assistant

Works under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist to aid in the total rehabilitation of the patient via use of various modalities, therapeutic exercise, gait training, and functional activities.

Job Duties

• Performs a physical therapy treatment program developed by the physical therapist and progresses the patient through the program in a safe and competent manner.
• Prepares patient for treatment by explaining the treatment process and positioning the patient for comfort, safety, and optimal response to the treatment.
• Administers various treatment modalities in a safe and appropriate manner.
• Utilizes appropriate active and passive therapeutic exercise programs and equipment safely and effectively such as range of motion, strengthening, stretching, and isokinetic training.
• Performs gait training, transfer training, and other functional activities.
• Performs selected measurement procedures consistently and accurately such as joint range of motion, gross strength of muscle groups, length and girth of body parts and vital signs.
• Fits patients for and adjusts assistive devices such as canes, walkers, crutches, and wheelchairs appropriate to the patient's diagnosis.
• Instructs and trains the patient in the proper use and care of orthoses, prostheses, and assistive devices.
• Modifies treatment procedures as indicated by patient response to treatment within the limits specified in the treatment plan and discusses treatment changes with the supervising physical therapist.
• Provides instruction to patient and family specific to the patient's needs and individual treatment program.
• Keeps the physical therapist aware of patient's status and any problems that may arise.
• Performs discharge planning activities in a timely and effective manner as a member of the rehab team and as directed by the physical therapist.
• Provides for patient equipment needs when applicable.
• Instructs patient and family in home exercise programs, safe performance of mobility skills, and the safe use and operation of equipment as indicated.
• Performs all documentation responsibilities pertinent to patient care legibly and in compliance with departmental policy.

Work is typically performed in a clinical environment. Accountable for satisfying all job specific obligations and complying with all organization policies and procedures. The specific statements in this profile are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements considered necessary to successfully perform the job. Additional competencies and skills outlined in any department-specific orientation will be considered essential to the performance of the job related to that position.

Position Details:

• Hours: Per Diem
• License/Certification Requirement: Must hold a PA license in Physical Therapy Assistant
• Education Experience: Completed a training program in Physical Therapy Assistant.

Benefits of working at Geisinger:

• 401(k) plan that includes automatic Geisinger contributions
• MyHealth Rewards wellness program to improve your health while earning a financial incentive
• Family-friendly support including adoption and fertility assistance, parental leave pay, military leave pay and a free Care.com membership with discounted backup care for your loved ones
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Referrals for childcare, eldercare, & pet care. Access free legal guidance, mental health visits, work-life support, digital self-help tools and more.

Education:

Graduate from Specialty Training Program- (Required)

Experience:

Certification(s) and License(s): Basic Life Support Certification within 30 days - Default Issuing Body, Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant (Pennsylvania) - State of Pennsylvania

Skills:

• KINDNESS: We strive to treat everyone as we would hope to be treated ourselves.
• EXCELLENCE: We treasure colleagues who humbly strive for excellence.
• LEARNING: We share our knowledge with the best and brightest to better prepare the caregivers for tomorrow.
• INNOVATION: We constantly seek new and better ways to care for our patients, our members, our community, and the nation.
• SAFETY: We provide a safe environment for our patients and members and the Geisinger family.

We offer healthcare benefits for full time and part time positions from day one, including vision, dental and domestic partners. Perhaps just as important, we encourage an atmosphere of collaboration, cooperation and collegiality.

We know that a diverse workforce with unique experiences and backgrounds makes our team stronger. Our patients, members and community come from a wide variety of backgrounds, and it takes a diverse workforce to make better health easier for all. We are proud to be an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.