PRN Home Health Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

Description

The Home Health Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) provides essential support to physical therapists by assisting in the implementation of therapeutic interventions and patient care plans within a home setting. You will work directly with patients to help them regain or improve their physical function, mobility, and overall quality of life. Your role involves executing prescribed therapeutic exercises, monitoring patient progress, and ensuring a safe and effective therapy environment.

Schedule: PRN, Weekdays (M-F)

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

• Assist physical therapists in developing and executing individualized treatment plans based on patient assessments and goals.
• Implement therapeutic exercises, modalities, and interventions as prescribed by the physical therapists to improve patients; strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination.
• Educate patients and their families on exercise techniques, home exercise programs, and strategies to manage physical conditions and prevent injuries
• Monitor and document patient progress, responses to therapy, and changes in condition, reporting significant findings to the supervising physical therapist.
• Assist with patient mobility, transfers, and activities of daily living as needed, ensuring safety and comfort during therapy sessions.
• Provide feedback and support to patients to encourage adherence to therapy programs and maximize therapeutic outcomes.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records and documentation in compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.
• Collaborate with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to ensure a coordinated approach to patient care.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development to stay current with best practices and advancements in physical therapy.
• Perform all other duties assigned.

Requirements

Job Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in Physical Therapy Assistant program from an accredited institution.
• Valid Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) license in the state where work is performed.
• 1 or more years of PTA experience, preferably in a home health or similar setting.
• Knowledge of physical therapy principles, techniques, and best practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with patients, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to build rapport with patients through a compassionate and caring demeanor.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and transfer patients, with or without assistance, up to 50lbs.
• Capability to perform physical tasks such as bending, standing, walking, and climbing stairs for extended periods.
• Strength to handle therapeutic equipment and assist patients with mobility and physical activities.
• Visual acuity and dexterity for performing tasks such as reading medical records, administering injections, and handling therapeutic tools.
• Ability to respond swiftly and efficiently to emergency situations.
• Capacity to work in various home environments which may include navigating stairs, tight spaces, or uneven surfaces.
• Maintain regular attendance and timeliness as set forth within the work schedule designated by the department supervisor/manager.
• The job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
• The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.