Physical Therapy Assistant - Home Services

The physical therapy assistant provides physical therapy services under the direction of the physical therapist and according to the physician's plan of care. Responsible for all necessary documentation.

Responsibilities

• Provides direct physical therapy according to directions of physical therapist and in accordance with the physician’s plan of care.
• Treats patient to relieve pain, develop or restore function, and maintain maximum performance.
• Directs and aides patients in active and passive therapeutic exercises, muscle re-education, gait and functional training, transfer activities and prosthetic training.
• Utilizes physical agents, including, but not limited to heat, cold, water, light, electiricty, ultrasound and massage.
• Observes and reports to the physical therapist and the organization personnel the patient’s reaction to treatment and any changes in patient’s condition.
• Instructs patients in care and use of wheelchairs, braces, crutches, canes and prosthetic or orthotic devices.
• Maintains necessary records; clinical notes and conference notes, which will be incorporated into the patients’ clinical record in prescribed time frames.
• Participates with the members of the Interdisciplinary group to implement patient’s plan of care.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education

• Associate's Degree - Science or applied science - Required
• Graduate of physical therapy assistant program - Required

Work Experience

• 1 Year - Acute or post-acute setting with home care experience - Preferred

Licenses and Certifications

• Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) - Current certifications or licenses as required by state law within practicing state - Required within 60 Days Or
• Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) - Compact State License - Required Upon Hire
• Basic Life Support (BLS) - Required within 90 Days
• Driver's License - Valid In State - Required Upon Hire

Travel Requirements

• Must be able to travel between various system facilities and off-site locations as needed. - Required

Qualifications

Skills and Abilities

Essential Technical/Motor Skills

• Ability to communicate clearly to patients, Fine motor skills required.

Interpersonal Skills

• Displays a friendly, positive attitude and communicates with patients, families, physicians and co-workers in a professional manner.
• Ability to communicate both verbally and written.

Essential Physical Requirements

• Must move, kneel, crouch, stoop, reach, stand, push, pull, and lift. Must follow good body mechanics.

Essential Mental Abilities

• Must be adaptable to the many challenges of differing home environments. Also includes explaining, forecasting, organizational skills and time management.

Essential Sensory Requirements

• Visual, hearing and feeling skills

Exposure to Hazards

• Frequent exposure to communicable diseases, road and weather hazards

Other Skills and Abilities

• Must be registered and successfully pass background check with the Family Care Safety Registry and other applicable state registries. Must be a licensed driver with an automobile that is insured in accordance with state and /or organization requirements and is in good working order. Must meet minimum continuing education hours required for license renewal.