Responsible for administering physical therapy modalities of treatment as directed by a physical therapist (PT). Administers treatments and physical agents as per the physical therapist an effort to restore function and prevent disability following injury, disease, or physical disability. Assists patients to reach their maximum performance and level of functioning, while learning to live within the limits of their capabilities. The physical therapy assistant participates in operational and performance improvement activities within the department. Participates in all infection control, departmental equipment training, organizational safety, and fire safety programs. Other duties as assigned.
Demonstrates good communication skills to facilitate implementation of quality core measures, attends meetings and weekly case conferences. Maintains open communication with the interdisciplinary team. Maintains open communication with the Lead Physical Therapist in relation to responsibilities or patient concerns. Utilizes appropriate chain of command to collaboratively and proactively problem solve as needed. Diffuses patient/family complaints and reports to the lead Physical Therapist prior to involving Director or clinical coordinator. Attends education when offered related to competencies or changes in processes. Understands regulatory and compliance standards to assure the provision of safe, cost effective and quality care.
EDUCATION: Graduate of an approved school for Physical Therapy Assistants.
LICENSE/CERTIFICATION/REGISTRY: Current State Physical Therapy Assistant Licensure, Current BLS (CPR) certification.
KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE: 1 or more years of previous experience in all aspects of physical therapy as an assistant, Home Health experience preferred.
Assist PT in evaluating the current level of function of patient and revising plan of treatment as necessary. Observe, record and report changes in the patient’s condition to supervising PT/staff. Educate the patient/family/ on use of adaptive equipment in the home. Participate in weekly case conferences and staff in-services. Confirm on regular basis the scheduling of patients with PT to coordinate supervisory visits in timely fashion. Performs therapeutic procedures by administering manual exercises and instructing, encouraging and assisting patients in performing physical activities such as non-manual exercises, ambulatory functional activities and activities of daily living. Administer treatment programs for patients as directed by PT. Prepare daily notes including patient visit, addressing progress towards goals and homebound status. Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules and regulations and adhering to infection-control policies and protocols. Ensures that daily patient documentation is accurate and entered on a timely basis. Provides and documents patient status report to Physical Therapist overseeing patient. Works with the Physical Therapist to assure patient visits are being provided as outlined in the plan of care. Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities, reading periodicals, maintaining personal networks and participating in professional organizations.