Dynamic Physical Therapy Assistant: Restore Mobility

Job Summary Cost Accounting Type: Fixed Direct Exempt: No Works under limited supervision of a physical therapist while administering various APTA standard physical therapy treatments for disabilities, injuries, and diseases, to relieve pain, restore motor function, and maintain optimal performance by means of special therapeutic exercises, heat treatments, massages, hydrotherapy treatments, wound care treatments, electricity, and other modalities or as otherwise prescribed by the attending physician and in keeping with training and skill level attained. Responsibilities Administers and performs standard physical therapy procedures, including active/assistive/passive/resistive exercise, massage, and other manual therapy depending on level of training; walking, running, muscle re‑education; using PT modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, traction devices, fomentations, whirlpools, etc.; and instructs patients on correct use of wheelchairs, crutches, canes, braces, and prosthetic devices. Assists with ongoing collaborative interdisciplinary planning to ensure high‑quality services. Assumes responsibility for observing work schedule and job requirements, maintaining compliance with hospital and departmental policies including overtime, attendance, vacation, confidentiality, etc., and completing assigned projects in a timely manner. Attends case conferences to evaluate and discuss patient’s progress and future plans for therapy. Attends departmental staff meetings and in‑service meetings as required. Checks with the physical therapist periodically to reassess and plan additional therapy for the patient. Participates in patient review meetings bimonthly. Conforms to established departmental quality assurance standards and procedures on a regular basis. Demonstrates and instructs patients and other clinical staff on the proper use of PT modalities, massage, and various exercises to use between treatments. Documents patient’s progress by recording necessary information in treatment records, patient files, and writing progress notes daily or as required. Instructs patient’s family/caregivers on prescribed discharge program when necessary. Keeps current on the latest developments in physical therapy by reading professional literature, participating in education classes, etc., to demonstrate competence. Maintains and meets expectations on time for all competencies, licenses, certifications, and education requirements as outlined by local administration, Adventist Health AH, The Joint Commission, CMS and other regulatory agencies. Maintains confidentiality of patient and employee information within the hospital and community setting. Operates equipment in a safe manner and shares responsibility for communication safety violations or unsafe practices with management. Orients patient to all therapeutic procedures involved and comforts patient by constantly reassuring them throughout the treatment session. Participates in performance improvement plan activities as requested or needed. Prepares patients and various PT modalities such as traction devices and exercise equipment for prescribed physical treatments as needed; also instructs patient, family and other clinical staff on correct cervical and pelvic traction procedures when needed. Relates well with other staff members and various other hospital personnel in a courteous professional manner at all times. Reports patient progress or any complications directly to the attending physician as needed. Schedules as needed and completes visits within established timeframes. Takes initiative to contact the physical therapist or other health‑care professionals as needed to ensure quality care for the patient. Willingly performs other duties and innovations as assigned. Qualifications Graduate of an APTA accredited School for Physical Therapist Assistants or eligible for registration as a physical therapy assistant in California. Current CPR course completion. Licensed California Physical Therapy Assistant. Member of APTA preferred. Valid California driver’s license when travel is required. Ability to organize and monitor the work of others. Ability to relate effectively with patients, nurses, physicians and other hospital/home‑health staff in a courteous, professional manner. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Analytical and diagnostic ability capable of interpreting patient physician orders for physical therapy patients and developing an effective treatment plan as needed. Evidence of automobile insurance when travel is required. Licenses & Certifications Licensed California Physical Therapy Assistant. Current CPR course completion. Member of APTA (preferred). Physical Requirements & Work Environment Frequent bending, squatting, kneeling, climbing, reaching above shoulders, sitting, walking on inclines and declines, standing, talking, hearing, and performing repetitive hand motions. Vision requirements include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Occasionally lift boxes and/or supplies weighing up to 20 pounds. Potential exposure to blood and body fluids: Category 2. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Legal & EEO Statements Adventist Health participates in E‑Verify. Visit for more information about E‑Verify. By choosing to apply, you acknowledge that you have accessed and read the E‑Verify Participation and Right to Work notices and understand the contents therein. #J-18808-Ljbffr Confidential