Physical Therapy Assistant

Statement of Purpose:

Administers physical therapy treatments to patients under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist and does related work as required in the hospital or school setting as needed by the department.

MAJOR TASKS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Applies heat, cold, electricity, hydrotherapy treatments, massage and other modalities as directed by the Physical Therapist.
2. Performs therapeutic exercise, training in phases of ambulation, developmental sequences, and other activities of daily living according to the Physical Therapist's direction.
3. Observes, records, and reports patient's reactions to treatments and equipment as supervised by the Physical Therapist.
4. Assists with patient discharge plans and evaluation of equipment needed for home.
5. Prepares, sets up and maintains physical therapy treatment areas and equipment; provides for and observes safety precautions during all phases of treatment.
6. Confers periodically with the Physical Therapist regarding all facets of patient care and related activities.
7. Instructs families and staff in patients' treatment and mobility.
8. Notifies the Physical Therapist of patient's response to treatment.
9. Reports any change in patient's condition or behavior to appropriate personnel, including nursing, if indicated.
10. Participates with other personnel in the formation of the patient's total health care plans where appropriate.
11. Attends family and patient care conferences to discuss needs of patients and families.
12. May answer incoming telephone call using proper techniques and procedures and relay messages to personnel or patients promptly.
13. Performs record keeping functions related to maintenance and execution of the physical therapy program.
14. Must be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served in his/her assigned unit.
15. When Staffing needs dictate, may work an alternate schedule.

DEMONSTRATED BEHAVIORS:

1. Demonstrates and exemplifies Code of Conduct and Ethical Behavior by:

a) Considering first the well-being of the patient.

b) Conducting all interactions with patients, visitors, employees, physicians, volunteers, healthcare providers or any other individuals in a courteous, honest and respectful manner.

c) Demonstrating ethical and professional behavior at all times.

d) Refraining from conduct that may reasonably be considered offensive to others or disruptive to the workplace or patient care. Offensive conduct may be written, oral or behavioral.

1. Assumes responsibility for own professional growth and development as demonstrated by attendance at continuing education ad inservice programs. Meets mandatory inservice requirements.
2. Arrives for work on time and as scheduled.
3. Is knowledgeable and practices safely using infection control, universal precaution and safety protocols. Uses appropriate universal precautions, infection control practices, along with proper lifting and transfer techniques to promote patient and employee safety.
4. Is knowledgeable and complies with hospital policies and procedures.
5. May assist in the promotion of our institution and profession by participation in hospital promotion and health fair activities.
6. Performs other duties as requested within the scope of applicable licensure, abilities and policies.
7. All employees are responsible for providing excellent customer service through words and actions that support our commitment to caring and quality
8. All employees are responsible for creating a culture of employee and patient safety and for ensuring the highest quality of care for patients throughout Jones Memorial Hospital

EDUCATION : High School graduate or equivalency; Associates Degree in Physical Therapy with current New York State license and registration as Physical Therapist Assistant. BLS/CPR preferred.

EXPERIENCE : Six months related experience.

CONTACTS : Frequent contacts co-workers, patients and visitors.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS : Frequent standing, walking, sitting and lifts of patients during transfers.

WORKING CONDITIONS : Normal, may be required to use isolation technique, may be exposed to blood and body fluids.