Physical Therapy Aide - LongTerm Care (DOH/NMBHI #13318)

Salary $17.00 - $25.49 Hourly $35,350 - $53,024 Annually This position is a Pay Band C2 Posting Details THIS POSTING WILL BE USED FOR ONGOING RECRUITMENT AND MAY CLOSE AT ANY TIME. APPLICANT LISTS MAY BE SCREENED MORE THAN ONCE. THIS POSTING MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS. Why does the job exist? The Physical Therapy Aide provides direct resident care, implements individualized restorative and therapy interventions, and supports residents¿ physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being. Working under the supervision of the Restorative/Rehabilitation RN, and in collaboration with therapists and nursing staff, this role involves delivering hands-on restorative, rehabilitative, and personal care services, including ambulation, range of motion exercises, ADL support, and specialized therapy interventions. The position also encompasses responsibilities related to pool supervision, resident safety, documentation, and compliance, all aimed at promoting resident independence, safety, and quality of life. How does it get done? The job gets done by performing tasks such as: Follow individualized Restorative Care Plans, providing interventions such as ambulation, gait training, transfer assistance, PROM/AAROM exercises, positioning, splinting, and other therapeutic activities. Use and instruct residents on various exercise equipment (e.g., flexerciser, pulley systems, standing machines, adaptive utensils). Provide assisted range of motion (AROM), passive range of motion (PROM), oromotor exercises, and other modalities (hot/cold packs, Biofreeze, Prosage) as prescribed. Assist with functional activities, including dressing, ADL support, and the use of supportive devices. Supervise and facilitate participation in therapy activities, motivating residents, and ensuring safety during interventions. Attend to resident needs, including offering fluids, assisting with dining, and engaging in positive interactions to promote dignity and participation. Resident Care & Personal Assistance Provide direct personal care, including ADLs, transfers, mobility assistance, and support with supportive devices. Assist residents with dressing, undressing, and use of braces, slings, and other support equipment. Offer compassionate, respectful care that upholds resident dignity, privacy, and rights. Respond promptly to resident requests, complaints, or emergencies, following safety and infection control protocols. Documentation & Compliance Accurately document all restorative, therapeutic, and personal care activities daily in the facility¿s system. Report changes in resident conditions, refusals, or incidents immediately to supervising RN. Maintain compliance with facility policies, CMS regulations, and state licensing requirements. Participate in training, continuing education, QA audits, and performance improvement initiatives. Safety & Infection Control Follow all safety protocols, including fall prevention, body mechanics, PPE use, equipment disinfection, and linen change procedures. Ensure safe transfer, mobility, and positioning per care plans. Manage and report equipment malfunctions and maintain a safe environment for residents and staff. Additional Responsibilities Support therapy staff with equipment setup, minor repairs, and maintenance of therapy and pool equipment. Assist with administrative tasks such as tracking attendance, preparing logs, and managing treatment supplies. May assist with Snack Bar operations, unit activities, or other duties as assigned. Who are the customers? Patient/Resident/Clients Ideal Candidate The Ideal Candidate would have: Understanding of CMS regulations and restorative care principles. Proficiency in using mobility aids and therapy equipment. Strong communication, documentation, and observational skills. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision after training. Demonstrated professionalism, respect, and commitment to resident-centered care. Minimum Qualification High School Diploma or equivalent. Employment Requirements Must possess and maintain a valid NM Drivers License. Must obtain a Defensive Driving Certificate. SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITIONS--This position ls designated as safely sensitive. Employment Is subject to pre-employment and random testing. In accordance with all terms and conditions of federal and state law, rules, and regulations in relation to alcohol and/or drug testing. Employment ls subject to nationwide criminal background checks and is conditional pending results. CRIMINAL RECORDS BACKGROUND CHECK-Must successfully complete post offer pre-employment criminal records background check. Employment is conditional pending the results of criminal records background checks. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Successful completion of the Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act (HIPAA). Working Conditions Work is performed in an office setting within a long-term facility with exposure to Visual/Video Display Terminal (VDT) and extensive personal computer and phone usage. Walking throughout the facility and frequent communication and interaction with residents, staff, and the public. Periods of walking, standing, bending pushing, pulling, lifting, and stretching for a variety of activities may be required. Must be able to function under pressure and stressful situations Health hazards such as exposure to contagious viruses and diseases. May also include routine exposure to public, fellow employees, and facility resident illness, stressful situation, and bodily fluids, as well as exposure to physical and/or verbal abuse. Occasional travel for training & meetings and driving a State of NM owned motor vehicle may be required; some lifting; extended hours to meet deadlines will be required. Working hours may include on-call, nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, and callback hours. Essential functions of the job and physical ability requirements will be available at the time of interview or may be obtained at the New Mexico Veterans' Home Human Resources Office. Supplemental Information Do you know what Total Compensation is? Click here Agency Contact Information: Lynn Padilla, (505)454-2646 Email For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement. Bargaining Unit Position This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to.