Physical Therapist Assistant - Rehabilitation

JOB SUMMARY:

Assists Physical Therapist with all patient treatments for in-patients, outpatients, and contract services.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. The Physical Therapist Assistant will carry a regular patient caseload under the supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, performing the prescribed patient treatments after completion of the patient evaluation by the Physical Therapist.
2. Communicates with supervising PT on a regular basis regarding patient treatment plan and progress.
3. The PTA must work with the PT on:
1. Collection of data for the re-evaluation of patient progress
2. Recommendations for changes in patient treatments
3. Assisting with data collection for the progress and discharge notes written in the medical chart.
4. Guides activities of aides and families concerning patient treatment and conducts in-service education or training to healthcare personnel and families.
5. Assists with general cleaning of patient treatment area and supplies, ordinary equipment for patient use.
6. Takes responsibility and uses opportunities to promote education and professional knowledge.
7. Uses effective communication techniques within the rehabilitation department and inter-departmentally to maximize team building.
8. Maintains 85% productivity.
9. Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed in a clinical Rehabilitation Department setting and in resident rooms, where contact with staff, physicians, residents' families, and the public is required. Requires walking up to 95% of the workday. Must be capable of lifting, pushing, pulling, and moving up to 50 pounds or more. Finger dexterity is required with eye-hand coordination, vision, and hearing corrected to normal range.

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS:

Work requires the knowledge of Physical Therapy normally acquired through a two-year degree from an accredited school for Physical Therapist Assistants. New York State license to practice or temporary New York State license is required. Must possess skills to effectively acquire pertinent information from patients’ charts and the patients, implement procedures, and document the effects of treatment. Interpersonal skills necessary to communicate accurately and precisely to patients and family members the instructions that may be necessary in the completion of a treatment program. Also, be able to identify changes in patient conditions and communicate those changes to the appropriate supervisor.