Physical Therapist Assistant

Title of Job: Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Status/FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Director of Physical Therapy

Location: Mason District Hospital - Physical Therapy Department

Date: March 2025

Primary Function:

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is responsible for implementing physical therapy treatment plans under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. The PTA delivers skilled therapeutic interventions to patients across the lifespan-from pediatrics to geriatrics-in various care settings including inpatient, outpatient, swing-bed, and home health. The PTA assists in patient education, documentation, and interdisciplinary communication to support optimal patient outcomes and uphold departmental and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities:

1. Deliver physical therapy interventions according to the established plan of care, including therapeutic exercises, gait training, functional mobility training, and physical agent modalities.
2. Instruct patients, caregivers, and families in home exercise programs, safety techniques, and rehabilitation goals to encourage carryover and active participation.
3. Accurately document patient progress, interventions, and observations in SOAP format, adhering to departmental policies, legal standards, and approved medical abbreviations.
4. Communicate effectively with Physical Therapists, nursing staff, and interdisciplinary team members regarding patient progress, concerns, or changes in condition.
5. Assist with the training of support staff, students, and new employees, and provide instruction to home health aides or other personnel involved in patient care.
6. Follow all safety protocols and infection control procedures; identify and report any hazards, equipment malfunctions, or suspected communicable conditions.
7. Demonstrate sound judgment, maintain patient confidentiality, and adhere to hospital policies regarding attendance, dress code, and ethical behavior.
8. Participate in departmental quality assessment and improvement activities, including completing QA tools and offering constructive feedback on care delivery systems.
9. Adjust to changes in patient volume, schedules, and therapy needs; resolve problems related to care delivery, equipment, or environmental factors.
10. Maintain current CPR certification, attend all mandatory in-services, and engage in continuing education to stay current with professional standards and state licensure requirements.
11. Maintain professionalism in all patient and staff interactions, embodying the values of the Rehabilitation Services Department.
12. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

1. Licensed as a Physical Therapist Assistant by the State of Illinois or eligible for licensure as a new graduate.
2. Experience working with diverse patient populations preferred (pediatric, adult, geriatric).
3. Proficient in documentation, computer systems, and therapy-related equipment.
4. Must hold current CPR certification.
5. Valid Illinois Driver's License, reliable transportation, and insurance for home health responsibilities.
6. Demonstrated professionalism, independence, and teamwork.

Physical Demands / Work Environment:

1. Frequent standing (60%), walking (40%), and sitting (40%)
2. Ability to lift up to 80 lbs., carry up to 60 lbs., and push up to 80 lbs.
3. Reaching and handling (40%), with occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, climbing, and balancing (5%)
4. Speaking and hearing (60%); vision adequate to read print and handwriting; color vision required
5. Primarily indoors (99%); temperature range 60-90°F, humidity 30-60%
6. Occasional outdoor work (1%) in temperature extremes (-10 to 110°F)
7. Exposure to typical clinical equipment and environmental conditions