Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

Description

The Physical Therapy Assistant will play a crucial role in assisting physical therapists in providing high-quality rehabilitative services to residents, with a focus on restoring mobility, improving strength and function, and enhancing overall quality of life.

Schedule: Full-Time, Weekdays, Weekends, 8 Hour Shifts, Varying Hours between 7AM - 6PM

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

• Assist physical therapists in conducting assessments to evaluate residents’ physical abilities, functional status, and rehabilitation needs through comprehensive assessments.
• Implement individualized treatment plans developed by Physical Therapists, including physical exercises, activities, and interventions aimed at improving residents’ functional abilities and achieving treatment goals.
• Provide hands-on assistance and guidance to residents during therapy sessions, ensuring safety, proper technique, and optimal outcomes.
• Utilize adaptive equipment, assistive devices, and environment modifications to facilitate residents’ participation in therapy activities and enhance their independence in daily tasks.
• Document resident progress, treatment interventions, and outcomes accurately and timely in accordance with facility policies and regulatory requirements.
• Communicate effectively with physical therapists, nursing staff, and other team members to coordinate care, share information, and promote continuity of services.
• Collaborate with residents and their families to establish realistic goals, educate them on therapeutic techniques and strategies, and provide support and encouragement throughout the rehabilitation process.
• Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and discharge planning discussions to contribute to resident care planning and goal setting.
• Stay current on best practices, evidence-based interventions, and regulatory changes in the field of physical therapy, participating in continuing education and professional development activities as needed.
• Maintain professional licensure and adhere to ethical standards set forth by relevant professional organizations.
• Perform all other duties assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Associate's degree from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
• Current Physical Therapist Assistant license or certification in the state of practice.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification.
• 2 years of experience in a physical therapy setting.
• Strong understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and the principles of physical therapy.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with patients, families, and the healthcare team.
• Ability to follow directions and work effectively under supervision.
• Empathy and commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift, transfer, and position patients using proper body mechanics and safe lifting techniques.
• Manual dexterity and coordination to perform therapeutic exercises, modalities, and massage.
• Prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, and reaching during patient treatment sessions.
• Physical capacity to handle therapeutic equipment and assist patients with mobility and balance exercises.
• Mobility to navigate the facility and assist patients in various treatment areas.
• Sufficient visual acuity to observe changes in patients' conditions and monitor their progress during therapy sessions.