Therapy - Physical Therapist Assistant

SummitWest Care; Grand Junction (CO); On-site; USD 48,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Job summary

SummitWest Care in Colorado seeks a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) to assist in implementing treatment plans under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. The PTA will perform hands-on therapy, monitor progress, educate patients, and help restore mobility while supporting safe, effective rehabilitation.

The role involves documentation, teamwork with clinicians, equipment care, and ensuring patient safety throughout therapy sessions.

Qualifications

Responsibilities

• Implementing Treatment Plans: Assist in the execution of physical therapy treatment plans developed by the Physical Therapist.
• Patient Monitoring and Progress Evaluation: Observe and monitor patient responses, track changes, and report to the PT.
• Patient Education: Teach exercises and home care strategies to aid recovery and prevent re-injury.
• Documentation and Record Keeping: Maintain accurate progress records and ensure HIPAA compliance.
• Collaboration with Healthcare Team: Work with PT, physicians, nurses, and other staff to coordinate care.
• Equipment and Facility Maintenance: Help maintain therapy equipment and ensure tidy therapy areas.
• Assist in Evaluations and Initial Assessments: Collect patient history and assist in basic assessments.
• Safety and Injury Prevention: Ensure a safe environment and monitor for fatigue or injury.

Job description

A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) works under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist (PT) to assist in the implementation of treatment plans designed to help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or conditions that impair movement and mobility. PTAs play a key role in rehabilitation by performing hands‑on therapy, monitoring patient progress, and helping patients restore physical function, improve mobility, and reduce pain.

Key Responsibilities

• Implementing Treatment Plans:
  • Assist in the execution of physical therapy treatment plans developed by the Physical Therapist.
  • Administer therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, and modalities (e.g., hot/cold packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation) to patients.
  • Use physical therapy equipment, such as treadmills, stationary bikes, and resistance machines, to aid in patient recovery.
  • Guide patients through prescribed exercises, ensuring correct form and technique to avoid injury and achieve optimal results.
• Patient Monitoring and Progress Evaluation:
  • Observe and monitor patient responses to physical therapy treatments and communicate progress or concerns to the supervising Physical Therapist.
  • Track and document changes in patient condition, noting improvements or setbacks.
  • Provide feedback on patient performance and assist in modifying treatment plans as necessary, under the direction of the Physical Therapist.
  • Educate patients on proper body mechanics and techniques to manage pain or prevent injury.
• Patient Education:
  • Teach patients exercises, stretches, and home care strategies to enhance recovery and reduce the risk of re‑injury.
  • Explain the purpose and benefits of physical therapy treatments to patients, addressing questions or concerns.
  • Instruct patients on how to use assistive devices (e.g., walkers, crutches, braces) and ensure safe usage.
  • Provide emotional support to patients, offering encouragement and motivation throughout the rehabilitation process.
• Documentation and Record Keeping:
  • Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records of each patient’s progress, including treatment details, outcomes, and changes in condition.
  • Document patient interactions and report any significant findings to the supervising Physical Therapist.
  • Assist in the development of progress notes and treatment summaries, ensuring compliance with HIPAA and other legal and regulatory requirements.
• Collaboration with Healthcare Team:
  • Work closely with the Physical Therapist, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated care for patients.
  • Communicate effectively with other team members to provide the best care plan for the patient’s rehabilitation.
  • Participate in team meetings to discuss patient progress and contribute to modifying treatment plans as necessary.
• Equipment and Facility Maintenance:
  • Assist in the maintenance and cleanliness of physical therapy equipment, ensuring that it is in proper working order.
  • Ensure that therapy areas are tidy and organized for patient use.
  • Adhere to infection control standards and ensure patient safety during therapy sessions.
• Assist in Evaluations and Initial Assessments:
  • Assist in the collection of patient history and performing basic physical assessments (e.g., range of motion, strength testing) under the direction of the Physical Therapist.
  • Help gather data for the initial evaluation, such as mobility levels and functional limitations.
• Safety and Injury Prevention:
  • Ensure a safe environment by observing proper lifting and movement techniques for patients and coworkers.
  • Follow all health and safety guidelines to avoid potential injuries to patients or self during therapy sessions.
  • Monitor patients for signs of fatigue, discomfort, or injury and adjust therapy plans as needed.