PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT (TR/PRN)

Riverside Healthcare

Kankakee (IL)

On-site

USD 40,000 - 51,000

Full time

4 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off

Health and welfare benefits

Educational Assistance Program

Job summary

Riverside Healthcare is seeking a Physical Therapist Assistant to support licensed Physical Therapists in delivering patient-centered mobility and functional rehabilitation. You will implement prescribed exercise programs, supervise therapeutic activities, and monitor progress to ensure safe, effective outcomes.

The role requires an Associate degree, Illinois PTA licensure, and BLS certification. You may assist with equipment prep, documentation, and patient education, contributing to a

Qualifications

Associate degree from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
Current state licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Illinois.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

Responsibilities

Assist Physical Therapists in providing direct therapeutic care by implementing exercise programs and other interventions as outlined in the patient’s plan.
Monitor and document patient progress, reporting changes to the supervising PT.
Instruct patients in proper techniques for therapeutic exercises and safe use of mobility aids.
Assist in transfers and mobility tasks, ensuring safety during therapy sessions.
Maintain accurate documentation of therapy sessions per policies and regulatory standards.
Prepare equipment and maintain a safe, organized therapy environment.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Patient safety

Team collaboration

Education

Associate degree

Illinois PTA licensure

BLS certification

Job description

Overview

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) at Riverside Healthcare works under the direction of licensed Physical Therapists to provide treatment interventions aimed at improving mobility, strength, and overall function. The PTA plays an essential role in supporting the physical therapy team by implementing care plans, assisting with patient exercises, and monitoring patient progress. This position is ideal for a compassionate, patient-focused professional who enjoys helping individuals recover from injury, surgery, or illness.

Essential Duties

Assist Physical Therapists in providing direct therapeutic care by implementing exercise programs, manual therapy, and other interventions as outlined in the patients treatment plan.
Monitor and document patient progress, reporting any changes or concerns to the supervising Physical Therapist.
Instruct patients in proper techniques for therapeutic exercises and safe use of mobility aids such as crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs.
Help patients with mobility and transfers, ensuring safety during therapy sessions.
Collaborate with the rehabilitation team to deliver patient-centered care that addresses the unique needs of each patient.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of therapy sessions in accordance with departmental policies and regulatory standards.
Assist in maintaining a clean, safe, and organized therapy environment by preparing equipment and ensuring its proper functioning.
Educate patients and their families on continuing exercises and activities to perform outside of therapy sessions to maintain progress.
Meets the following productivity percentage on outpatient and inpatient rehab and Acute: less than or equal to 79.99 (NI), 80-83.99 (meets), greater that 84 (exceeds).
Participates in Quality Improvement efforts, e.g., Journal Clubs, in-services, Magnet, chart auditing, etc.
Participate in care team meetings, case conferences, and continuing education to stay current with best practices in PTA.
Demonstrates flexibility with assignments within professional scope/duties/licensure.

Non-essential Duties

Assist with administrative tasks, including scheduling and coordinating patient appointments as needed.
Actively participates in designated marketing programs (inpatient or outpatient)
Contributes to community health initiatives and educational program
Provide mentorship or support to occupational therapy interns or new staff as needed.

Preferred Experience

Previous experience in a physical therapy or rehabilitation setting is preferred but not required.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
Ability to safely assist with patient transfers, mobility tasks, and the handling of therapy equipment.
Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to follow detailed treatment plans.

Required Licensure/Education

Associate degree from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
Current state licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Illinois.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.

Our Commitment to You:

Riverside Healthcare offers a comprehensive suite of Total Rewards: benefits and nationally rated employee well-being programs, competitive compensation, generous retirement offerings, programs that invest in your career development and so much more so your journey at and away from work is remarkable. Our Total Rewards package includes:

Compensation

Base compensation within the positions pay range based on factors such as qualifications, skills, relevant experience, and/or training
Premium pay such as shift differential, on-call
Opportunity for annual increases based on performance

Benefits - .5 to 1.0 FTE

Paid Time Off programs
Health and welfare benefits such as medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs
Educational Assistance Program

Benefits - .001 to .49 FTE:

Paid Leave Hours accrued as you work

Employee Health Requirements

Exposure/Sensory Requirements:

Exposure to:

Chemicals: Clorazene, Virex, Germicidal wipes, Liquid paper.
Video Display Terminals: Average
Blood and Body Fluids:Overall, there is a minimal risk of exposure to blood and body fluid. Potential risk would be in the event of patient incontinence and open wounds treated in hydrotherapy. There is also some potential for risk in equipment failure such as a catheter or IV breaking.
TB or Airborne Pathogens: Very Minimal.
Environmental Factors (Time Spent):
Inside hours: 7.5
Outside hours: .5
Temperature: Normal Range
Lighting: Average
Noise levels: Average
Humidity: Normal Range
Atmosphere:
Special Hazards: Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical: General use of exercise equipment and computers, modalities. Chemical additives for whirlpools, disinfectants.
Protective Clothing Required: Gown, gloves or mask if there is potential contact with blood or body fluid.