Description
8-hour shifts, 2-3 per week
Position Title: Physical Therapist Assistant
Department: Rehabilitation Department
Reports To: Rehabilitation Supervisor
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Summary:
The Physical Therapist Assistant provides direct patient care under the supervision of a Physical Therapist, using physical therapy modalities and procedures as ordered by the patients' physician.
Job Duties:
- Execute the comprehensive treatment program established by the supervising Physical Therapist, using various techniques and modalities such as therapeutic exercise, gait training, and physical agents.
- Monitor the patient's response to treatment and modify activities within the scope of the plan of care or recommend changes to the supervising PT as the patient's needs change.
- Provide therapy to a diverse diagnostic population of adults and geriatric patients with medically complex conditions, which may include those recovering from respiratory failure, stroke, sepsis, or serious wounds.
- Adhere to all diagnosis-related precautions and take necessary safety measures when handling patients and equipment, observing indications and contradictions for treatment.
- Complete timely and accurate documentation of patient treatment, responses, and progress in the medical record, in compliance with hospital policy and regulatory guidelines.
- Communicate patient status, problems, and progress to the supervising Physical Therapist and other members of the interdisciplinary team, including during patient care conferences.
- Assist with discharge planning by educating the patient and family/caregivers on home exercise programs and discussing the need for adaptive equipment to ensure a safe transition.
- Comply with all department, hospital, and regulatory agency guidelines, including state practice acts and the APTA's ethical standards.
- The ability to work independently, make sound decisions, and effectively manage time in a fast-paced environment.
- Flexibility to meet the changing needs of the system and patient population, and to work in a high-stress environment with professionalism.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients, families, and a multidisciplinary team.
Requirements
Education, Training and Licenses Required:
- The Physical Therapist Assistant must be a graduate of a CAPTE (Commission on Accreditation and Physical Therapy Education) accredited school/college/institution
- Possess current California licensure
- Current BLS certification that is AHA compliant
Experience Required:
- No previous work experience required.
- Two years’ experience in an acute care facility or outpatient clinic preferred.