Physical Therapy Assistant

Responsible for assisting the Physical Therapist in restoring the handicapped to their fullest physical ability.
QUALIFICATIONS

• A graduate of a program in physical therapy assistantship approved by the Council on Medical Education of the American Medical Association, or its equivalent, and when applicable, is licensed or registered by the state.
• Must be capable of performing job duties.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Treats patients to relieve pain, develop or restore function, and maintain maximum performances, using physical means such as exercise, massage, heat, water, light and electricity.
2. Directs and aids patients in active and passive exercise, muscle re-education, gait and functional training activities of daily living including transfer activities and prosthetic training.
3. Makes use of equipment such as ultra sound, low/high voltage generators, moist hot packs, ice (packs) and percussion.
4. Observes, records and reports to the Physical Therapist the patient's reaction to treatment and any changes in the patient's condition.
5. Instructs patients and their caregivers in the care and use of wheelchairs, braces, crutches, canes, prosthetic and orthotic devices.
6. Instructs other health team personnel and patient's friends/relatives in certain phases of therapeutic exercise with which they may work with the patient, such as transfer, exercise program, appliance use, ADL, gait training, etc.
7. Records appropriate progress notes daily noting procedures performed and the patient's response to therapy.
8. Confers with other disciplines as needed.
9. Submits route and time sheets on a daily basis and within 24 hours from date of visit.
10. Attends inservices, seminars, or other meetings as assigned by the immediate Supervisor or other management.

1. Maintains confidentiality of information related to business practices, business activities, and personnel.

1. Maintains a professional attitude when working with staff, fostering the team philosophy and team environment for all personnel.

1. Does not allow personal affairs to interfere with scheduled work time.
2. Maintains a professional appearance at all times.
3. Provides proper notification and/or advanced notice of absence or tardiness without abuse.

1. Participates willingly with special projects and/or overtime work when requested.
2. Follows all agency policy and procedures.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Other reasonably related tasks may be required to meet performance expectations.

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.