Physical Therapy Assistant

Physical Therapist Assistant

The Physical Therapist Assistant administers and monitors therapeutic interventions based on goals formulated by a Physical Therapist. The PTA also conducts educational programs to support the needs of patients in both rehabilitation and various other programs within the facility. The duties and responsibilities of the position are carried out within the facility including clinical, administrative and patient care areas associated with PM&R. The incumbent's duties include, but are not limited to:

• Performs appropriate cleansing and re-processing of reusable medical equipment in compliance with VHA directives and SOPs.
• Receives and interprets requests or instructions for procedures from the Physical Therapist. Plans and implements specialized treatment programs and applies physical therapy procedures to patients under the general supervision of a physical therapist.
• Completes a preliminary review/examination of patient data (including medical history), compiles and organizes pertinent information, and develops/presents a patient profile to be used in assessing patient's status.
• Assists with or renders a course of treatment based on the assessed needs of the patient, developing progressive types of physical therapy treatment programs. This is done in consultation with a Physical Therapist.
• Assists therapist in development of a comprehensive specialized treatment plan that includes long- and short-term goals.
• Persuades and motivates veterans and family members to participate in treatment plans and comply with indicated regimens and post-discharge activities. Interacts with the patient and family regarding goals for treatment.
• Assists in the performance of, or independently performs, highly specialized and diversified treatment procedures. Utilizes the full range of modalities. Administers non-complex active and passive therapeutic exercise.
• Fits, adjusts and instructs patients in use of orthoses, prostheses, and mobility devices. Instructs, motivates, and assists patients to learn activities of daily living and improve functional activities.
• Prepares and maintains appropriate equipment and supplies required for these treatments.
• Varies procedures or positions to adjust for veterans' medical conditions. Modifies intervention environment, tools, materials, and activities in response to each veteran's response to treatment.
• With prior approval of the Physical Therapist, adapts the technical procedures and approaches involving new and unusual treatment and rehabilitation objectives to meet the individual veteran's needs.
• Modifies or adapts specialized treatment approaches within the scope of the established treatment plan to reflect the changing needs of the veteran.

Work Schedule: Intermittent

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 09579-F

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized