Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

Shore Pointe Care Center; Eatontown (NJ); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Shore Pointe Care Center is seeking a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) to support elderly residents with structured treatment plans. You will guide patients through prescribed exercises, administer modalities, and collaborate with the care team to ensure safe, effective therapy on site.

Responsibilities include educating patients and families, documenting progress for the supervising PT, and assisting with transfers and equipment setup.

Qualifications

• An PTA must have an associate's degree from an accredited physical therapy program.
• Must hold a valid state license to practice physical therapy.
• Strong communication skills are essential for patient and family interactions.
• Empathy and patience are important when working with elderly residents.

Responsibilities

• Implement treatment plans designed by the Physical Therapist and guide patients through exercises.
• Administer physical modalities like heat or electrical stimulation as prescribed.
• Educate patients and families on exercises and safe use of equipment at home.
• Record patient progress and report responses to the supervising PT.
• Assist with transfers, bed mobility, and setting up treatment areas and equipment.
• Collaborate with nurses and aides to coordinate resident care.

Skills

Communication

Empathy and patience

Physical stamina

Education

Associate's degree (PT)

State license to practice

Job description

• Therapeutic interventions:Implement treatment plans designed by the Physical Therapist, which includes guiding patients through exercises, gait training, and using assistive devices like canes or walkers.
• Physical modalities:Administer treatments such as heat, cold, and electrical stimulation to help relieve pain, improve circulation, and decrease swelling.
• Patient and family education:Instruct patients and their families on how to perform exercises and use equipment safely after treatment to maintain progress at home.
• Documentation:Record and report patient progress, noting their response to treatment for the supervising Physical Therapist.
• Patient assistance:Help residents with transfers, bed mobility, and other activities as needed, and assist with setting up treatment areas and equipment.
• Collaboration:Work closely with other nursing home staff, including nurses and aides, to coordinate care for the residents.

Requirements and skills

• Education and licensing:A PTA must have an associate's degree from an accredited physical therapy program and a state license to practice.
• Physical stamina:The job can be physically demanding, requiring strength for patient transfers, lifting, and assisting with exercises.
• Communication:Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for interacting with patients, families, and the healthcare team.
• Empathy and patience:Working with an elderly population, some of whom may have cognitive decline, requires patience, empathy, and motivation skills.

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