Physical Therapy Assistant

Career At Lehigh Valley Health Network

Imagine a career at one of the nation's most advanced health networks.

Be part of an exceptional health care experience. Join the inspired, passionate team at Lehigh Valley Health Network, a nationally recognized, forward-thinking organization offering plenty of opportunity to do great work.

LVHN has been ranked among the "Best Hospitals" by U.S. News & World Report for 23 consecutive years. We're a Magnet(tm) Hospital, having been honored five times with the American Nurses Credentialing Center's prestigious distinction for nursing excellence and quality patient outcomes in our Lehigh Valley region. Finally, Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest, Lehigh Valley Hospital - Muhlenberg, Lehigh Valley Hospital- Hazleton, and Lehigh Valley Hospital - Pocono each received an 'A' grade on the Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group in 2020, the highest grade in patient safety. These recognitions highlight LVHN's commitment to teamwork, compassion, and technology with an unrelenting focus on delivering the best health care possible every day.

Whether you're considering your next career move or your first, you should consider Lehigh Valley Health Network.

Job Description

Provides care under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. Teaches patients exercise for mobility, strength, and coordination; trains on activities such as walking with crutches, canes, or walkers; teaches massage; demonstrates the use of physical agents and electrotherapy such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation. Measures changes in the patient's performance as a result of the physical therapy provided.

Job Duties

• Provides appropriate physical therapy treatment consistent with the plan of care and the patient's condition to restore function, prevent disability, and help patients reach their maximum performance level.
• Uses appropriate teaching methods and materials to instruct patients, families, and/or staff in exercise or mobility techniques or the use of equipment.
• Recommends modifications to existing physical therapy treatment plans to achieve maximum results.
• Applies modalities as indicated to aid patients in recovery and/or pain relief.
• Provides cost effective care in accordance with departmental billing guidelines.
• Completes and submits all documentation based on policies/standards and regulatory requirements.
• Communicates regularly with supervising PT regarding patient concerns and progress.
• Select and fits appropriate assistive devices for gait training and instructs patient in proper use.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate's Degree in physical therapy assisting.
• Ability to train and mentor others.
• Ability to work at various locations per diem.
• Must be able to provide safe, compassionate, and competent physical therapy treatments.
• American Heart Association Basic Life Support - State of Pennsylvania Upon Hire
• PTA - Physical Therapist Assistant - State of Pennsylvania Upon Hire

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's Degree successful completion of clinical affiliations as required for completion of PTA curriculum.

Physical Demands Lift and carry 40-50 lbs. Examples: Push/pull patients on bed, stretcher (requires 29 lbs. push force), lateral transfers up to 50 lbs. of the patient's weight. Frequent to continuous standing/walking. Patient transporters can walk 8-10 miles per shift. *Patient care providers may be required to perform activities specific to their role including kneeling, bending, squatting and performing CPR.

Lehigh Valley Health Network is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with, and where applicable, in addition to federal, state and local employment regulations, Lehigh Valley Health Network will provide employment opportunities to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or other such protected classes as may be defined by law. All personnel actions and programs will adhere to this policy. Personnel actions and programs include, but are not limited to recruitment, selection, hiring, transfers, promotions, terminations, compensation, benefits, educational programs and/or social activities.