Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

Outcome HC; Eatontown (NJ); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Outcome HC is seeking a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant to support therapists in a residential elder-care setting in Eatontown, NJ. The role involves guiding residents through prescribed exercises and assisting with gait training.

You will help residents with transfers and device use, document progress for the supervising PT, and collaborate with nurses and aides to coordinate care and maintain progress at home.

Qualifications

• PTA must have an associate's degree from an accredited physical therapy program and a state license to practice.
• Must have strong physical stamina for transfers, lifting, and assisting with exercises.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for patients, families, and the healthcare team.
• Empathy and patience are essential when working with an elderly population with possible cognitive decline.

Responsibilities

• Implement treatment plans designed by the Physical Therapist, guiding patients through prescribed exercises and gait training.
• Administer physical modalities such as heat, cold, and electrical stimulation as ordered by the PT.
• Document and report patient progress and response to treatment to the supervising Physical Therapist.
• Assist residents with transfers, bed mobility, setting up treatment areas, and collaborating with nurses and aides to coordinate care.

Skills

Physical stamina

Communication skills

Empathy

Team collaboration

Education

Associate's degree in Physical Therapy

State license to practice Physical Therapy

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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