Physical Therapist Assistant - PRN

Summary of Position: Responsible for administering physical therapy modalities of treatment as supervised by the staff physical therapist. Administers treatments and physical agents as directed by the staff physical therapist, after the physical therapist has evaluated the patient. The PTA assists patients with restoration of patient functioning to 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 capabilities. The PTA participates in operational aspects of the department, maintains performance improvement activities within the department and participates in CQI activities. Participates in all infection control, departmental equipment training, organizational safety and fire safety programs.

Functions of Position:  Responsible for providing treatment as directed by their staff physical therapist. Adheres to standards of physical medicine practice.  Ability to observe and evaluate treatment effect, discusses observations with staff physical therapist.  Ability to perform components of an appropriate assessment on all patients as related to the therapy requested and provided and reassessments as per policy.

This includes pediatric, adolescent, geriatric patients and the general patient population.  Assists with formulation of a teaching plan based upon identified learning needs and assesses effectiveness of learning, family is included in teaching as appropriate staff physical therapist is apprised of conclusions.  Demonstrates knowledge of physical therapy modalities.

 Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial needs of patients and family.  Manages and operates equipment safety and correctly Maintains department cleanliness and safety.  Interacts professionally with patient/ family and involves patient/family in the formation of the plan care.

 Communicates appropriately and clearly to physicians, facility staff and members of the department.  Coordinates and assists with directing patient care to ensure patient’s needs are met and facility policy is followed.  Maintains records pertinent to personnel and operation of the department.  Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.

 Maintains a good working relationship both within the department and with other departments.  Consults other departments as appropriate to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities.  Documentation meets current standards and policies.  Participates in education staff performance improvement inservices.

Assists with orientation and inservice training for certified department staff members, participates in guidance and educational programs.  Assists in ordering supplies, maintains adequate levels to assure all supplies and equipment is ready available.  Participates in infection control, departmental training equipment training and organizational CQI activities.

Qualifications

 AA degree from a school or college approved by the American Physical Therapy Association.  Must be a duly licensed under applicable state laws as a Physical Therapy Assistant.  Must be credentialed/credential eligible by the National Physical Therapy Association.  One or more years of clinical experience preferred. PRN (as needed)