Physical Therapy Assistant

About the role

Under supervision of Physical Therapist, performs treatments and provides exercise instruction and demonstration for patients in accordance with established polices and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Prepares patients and performs treatment procedures in accordance with the principles and practices of Physical and Rehab Therapy.
• Directs and coordinates individual treatments and exercises to maintain and restore strength endurance, coordination and range of motion by following a treatment plan for each patient evaluated by the Physical Therapist.
• Performs delegated treatment procedures such as gait training, exercise, therapeutic exercise, therapeutic modalities of heat, electricity and mechanical traction, paraffin.
• Encourages and motivates patients to participate in the treatment program by discussing and explaining their treatment goals and objectives.
• Observes and assists with tests to determine patient’s functional level in performing activities of daily living.
• Observes reactions and responses of patients to physical therapy treatment and reports observations to Physical Therapist.
• Provides instruction to patients/families concerning proper use of wheelchairs, crutches, canes, braces and prosthetic appliance and devices to include gait training and functional training.
• Lifts, positions and transports patients utilizing proper technique and equipment.
• Accompanies and remains with patient for clinical test or procedures in other departments/areas.
• Provides documentation of progress notes and discharge summaries by department policy.
• Transports charts, equipment, specimen and supplies.
• Demonstrates knowledge and skills to provide care, maintain clinical competency and meet age-specific patient needs in a caring, compassionate and sensitive manner.
• Prepares and maintains required records, reports and files for administrative and compliance purposes.
• Maintains patient medical records; documents patient status and care given; performs charting duties; records activities and observations.
• Utilizes patient computer systems to enter and retrieve data.
• Interacts and communicates in a customer responsive and courteous manner in compliance with iRESPECT standards and promoting patient/customer satisfaction.
• Works collaboratively with medical/hospital staff and patients to coordinate and implement patient care activities.
• Responds appropriately to emergency situations and notifies appropriate personnel.
• Maintains confidentiality in matters relating to patient/family, department and hospital information.
• Adheres to established department and organization policies (i.e. HIPAA, Confidentiality, and Compliance Policies).
• Provides support to therapist and other ancillary personnel to complete the initial and ongoing assessments of patients and to provide clinical assistance as needed.
• Assists in the orientation and supervision of students when they provide patient care, treatment and services as part of their training.
• Completes required continuous training and education, including department specific requirements.
• Attends staff meetings, all mandatory in-service and additional continuing education as required.
• Responds to problems/opportunities to improve care.
• Supports and participates in the organization’s Performance Improvement initiatives.
• Assists in care and maintenance of equipment, instruments and supplies.
• Reports malfunctioning equipment and documents need for repair/maintenance, notifying manager as appropriate.
• Maintains a clean, orderly, safe environment for patients and personnel.
• Adheres to established policies, compliance/quality improvement with consideration given to risk management, infection control and patient safety, practices.
• Provides coverage for relief and absences as required.
• Demonstrates flexibility to work weekends and holidays to maintain required coverage of the Rehab Department.